Why do cycling clothing manufacturers do this...?

[Kathi]

I don't know much about other manufacturers but according to the wife of my LBS owner (their clothing buyer whose daughter works for PI) there are something like 600 factories who make clothing for PI. With that number of factories quality control is impossible. By contrast, Sheila Moon, who owns her company, has her clothing made in a factory down the street from her shop can maintain control of her products so the sizes are consistent.

Shimano recently bought PI, so with more money there should be better standardization.

BTW, I have the same problems with Shebeest. I have always worn an XS in the Triple S and the Century Shorts but last year I tried on the Century shorts in an XS and couldn't even get into them. I haven't gained an ounce in 10 years, and my old XS shorts still fit but it's the same issue. The woman who owned Shebeest no longer owns the company so anything goes with the sizing.

This year I've discovered the Hincapie Pro short. Perfect fit and so far consistent sizing.