This jersey is *warm, *very comfortable, *breathable (I can't cope with membrane jackets above about 40-45 F - I sweat too much), *available in bright colors (not death-defying camouflage or black), *long-wearing. It's my go-to winter jersey, and getting one around half-off is always a treat.
Just be aware Pearl Izumi sizes run much larger than euro-company sizes.
This jacket fits perfectly. I wear a size medium at 6'2" 170lbs. It looks great and feels great, too. More often than anything else I wear this for walks when the temps are 40s-50s. I can also see wearing it for chilly bike commutes. It shields me well from wind and drizzly conditions and I can combine it with layers for extra warmth, if necessary. The zipper may me overly delicate for active-wear, but I haven't had any issue with it so far.
I bought these for the Mid-South 100 mile gravel race in 2026. I did a short 20 mile ride in them before the event and that's all the 'break in'.
For the race, they were great! These are my first Assos product. It is also the most I've spent on bib shorts, but well worth it. Good compression and about the right weight fabric for a spring race. Could see them being a little hot for summer road use.
Chamois was comfortable. It didn't feel too diaper-like and didn't bunch up. The chamois is well ventilated.
I'm happy with my purchase and will consider other Assos bib shorts or tights in the future.
I got these on sale. Couldn't pass up for the price. They are fantastic and the long length is perfect. Assos regular are way too short.
The chamois is Elastic Interface and a unique design. It is basically loose inside and stitched at the front and back. The GTO has a thick chamois, I guess designed for long rides. It's ok though I don't think it's necessary. The downside of the design is the sides can move, which needs some adjusting pre-ride.
Negatives: there are a couple high vis areas where they used white stitching. Just a bit near the thigh and another small section. It's strange. It looks bad, like cheap threading. I really don't understand it. maybe it's reflective? but it's such a small, hidden area it doesn't really make sense for that. All other stitching is black.
The crotch is made of a stretchy material that is shiny and has a quilted pattern. I understand the idea but since the chamois covers your bait and tackle, it's not needed and looks a bit strange.
Overall, though, great bibs. Some strange design choices. The overall material seems good and durable.
Seamless legs are great. I dislike stitching around the cuff of the leg and these are just smooth and comfortable. they don't get baggy at the cuff.
The straps are nice. I don't know if the back straps do anything but I like the style and they do fit well.
They give a high end appearance.
