Comfortable Shorts/Tights?

[Janet]

I have a pair of Pearl Izumi Sugar Knickers that I rode on a 40-mile tandem trip yesterday, and their padding was inadequate for the distance. I like the fit, but need more padding. It seems from these discussions that the PI Attack shorts are good, but want the longer length for cooler weather. Can't tell from descriptions on REI how good the padding is in anything -- and whether the ankle length tights are padded or just "covers" for shorts. Advice, please! I don't want the joy of tandeming to be ruined by a sore butt.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

i really REALLY like the chamois on the new Shebeest Tech tights I got from TE:
http://www.teamestrogen.com/products.asp?pID=11094

They are incredibly comfortable- no shifting or folding or other weird stuff- and no odd bumps stcking out or "diaper butt" effect! No leg zippers.
I also just love the fabric- it seems to keep me warmer than my other "winter" tights, but they aslo breathe and they feel like I'm getting massaged.
So happy with them I ordered a second pair.

Also, the CAPRI length Shebeest w/chamois have the same chamois pad, and I have one of those too for warmer weather when you don't need full length tights:
http://www.teamestrogen.com/products.asp?pID=9954

Both Shebeest tights in Medium seem run just a teeny bit more snug than the size Medium Terry and Louis Garneau brands I've tried. I still take the medium size though- I like a snug feel anyway. It's only a slight difference, but worth mentioning.

[Janet]

Lisa - Thanks for the information. Do you have an idea of size comparison with Pearl Izumi or Cannondale? I have PI medium shorts that seem loose, and PI small capris that are snug, but not too, and Cannondale small shorts that fit pretty well, but they're a little tight in the thighs. I know it's hard to extrapolate from this, it sounds like a medium SB might be the way to go (for a, um, well-rounded fiftysomething!)

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Janet-
I am 52, and sort of pear shaped. I'm 5'5" and 140 pounds. The SB medium Tech tights fit me very well- not loose, not too tight, just comfortably snug.
I would say that if you are 20 pounds or more heavier than me but not taller than me, then you might want to order the large to be safe. If you are within 10 pounds of me you could be safe with medium I suspect.
Tell us what your height and weight are, and your body shape- that would help.
I don't have any PI or Cannondale to compare to.

[ima_bleeder]

I finally had a chance to get a first-hand look at several chamois. Bottoms are so expensive, it's a big decision.

I'd seen several women raving about the Sugoi RS Flex short. Last year's chamois looks okay, but I'm actually pretty impressed with this year's chamois. Not very big, but really dense foam. Much more supportive than the fat squishy chamois. An excellent 'everyday' chamois, but not what I'd pick for the long rides. Still, I've had pretty good luck with Sugoi clothing, and I'm definitely getting one of these.

My top pick for the long ride is absolutely the Shebeest Century Stretch chamois, which I think only comes in the elite distance 2 short. I can't wait to get this short. I don't have a 'from the saddle' comparison, but from the feel of the chamois I would say that the Century Stretch the clear winner for the long ride, and really a lot more substantial than the SheLastic chamois that's in their padded tights. I can't wait to get this short!

If you want a little warmth top it off with a chamois-less tight. Or, if you're like me and want to cover up some of your 'assets', cover up with a capri, or during the warmer months a wrapper skirt. Sheila Moon had some great 'commuter' capris and wrap skirts at Interbike, but I don't see them up on the website yet.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

My top pick for the long ride is absolutely the Shebeest Century Stretch chamois, which I think only comes in the elite distance 2 short. I can't wait to get this short. I don't have a 'from the saddle' comparison, but from the feel of the chamois I would say that the Century Stretch the clear winner for the long ride, and really a lot more substantial than the SheLastic chamois that's in their padded tights. I can't wait to get this short!

I've heard good things from others about this short as well, for long distance riding.