Question on cycling clothing...

I don't use PI shorts but I've tried them on (bibs actually), the main difference I remember is the amount of padding. One has more.

chispa60 said:

I wasn't quite sure where to ask this but I figured cycling clothing falls under cycling equipment.

In any case, my question is in regards to the Pearl Izumi line of clothing for cyclists. What is the difference (or benfits) of MicroSensor versus UltraSensor fabric? It seems that both offer moisture wicking but that aside, I can't seem to find a difference.

Thanks,
Chi

I have both. The Microsensor has a better designed, thicker chamois, and is made of nicer material. I bought two pair of Microsensor bib shorts on eBay last week for good prices - brand new with tags. PI has a great feel/fit/comfort/quality factor.

skydive69 said:

I have both. The Microsensor has a better designed, thicker chamois, and is made of nicer material. I bought two pair of Microsensor bib shorts on eBay last week for good prices - brand new with tags. PI has a great feel/fit/comfort/quality factor.

I think you stole my shorts!! lol l lost a bid on a pair last week. 🙁

chispa60 said:

I wasn't quite sure where to ask this but I figured cycling clothing falls under cycling equipment.

In any case, my question is in regards to the Pearl Izumi line of clothing for cyclists. What is the difference (or benfits) of MicroSensor versus UltraSensor fabric? It seems that both offer moisture wicking but that aside, I can't seem to find a difference.

Thanks,
Chi

I've been using the Ultrasensor shorts and bib shorts, they're very comfortable and so far durable. I know the Microsensor has a different chamois, it didn't seem worth the $30 difference to me as I think I paid $60 for the Ultra's. I'm sure either will do you well, especially if your stepping up from lower end shorts.

I think that it is a matter of personal fit and preference, which very unfortunately can't be well determined without actual use. I personally have found the 3D chamois to be much more comfortable than the PRT in the Pearl line. I was very skeptical as I don't go for lots of padding, but for some reason they actually feel thinner but well shaped (for my butt) than most when I am riding (switching to bib-style from straight shorts has also made a big difference) . I think that the syn-chamois sections in the high pressure area versus all fabric of the PRT do better against my skin. Historically I have preferred thin natural chamois and have typically found the "polyester pillow" types to be a real pain in my.... They do carry a premium in price, but it has made a difference. From feedback from other riders, though, I have heard that the Heliarcs may not merit the next jump in price.

Good point, unfortunately, many choices in cycling gear are personal preference and all of us are different. This can lead to an expensive trial & error process. I went through several styles of shorts and my wife tried about 5 saddles before finding the "Right" fit. At least the bikes themselves we can usually test ride, but the bike shops don't want your sweaty loins in theie shorts to test them out.

Mansmind said:

I think you stole my shorts!! lol l lost a bid on a pair last week. 🙁

It's possible, but I lost quite a few pairs before I got a couple at the price I wanted to pay. 🙂

I like the Nike Sphere stuff as of late. It has the same properties as the clothing you mentioned, a good all around insulator/wicker (if that makes sense)