I've worn Pearl Izumi Pro shorts for several years. I've considered Castelli, as nearly everything else in my kit is Castelli, but Pearl Pro shorts never disappoint. They are not inexpensive, but after 30+ years of cycling, I've learned not to take shortcuts on shorts. The chamois does not chafe, and provides good padding, enough for my 61yr old backside to handle 2 to 3 hour rides. Seems like there was a near revolt in the last couple years by long time Pearl wearers regarding design changes, but I have no complaints with the tweaks they have made. I'm 6'2" and weigh 170 to 172lbs, and a medium short works well for me. I've read past reviews where people feel the front is cut too low, but I've not encountered any issues with my lower torso showing itself. The leg grippers are sticky and wide. I've not had issues with leg warmers or knee warmers working their way loose. The overall fit and amount of compression work very well for me.
I have long, not super beefy legs and was getting frustrated finding any women's shorts or bibs that didn't just hit mid or upper thigh, and that also stay put. These hit lower mid-thigh and the silicone grippers work really well to keep them from riding up. I love the more matte feel of the fabric - not at all shiny. I have also come to like the Progetto X2 Air Donna seat pad - far better than the super bulky "Kiss" versions I have tried in the past.
First knit shoes I ever tried, difficult to get on, almost returned them thinking they were too small. Once I wrestled them on though I knew it was a perfect fit. Sliding them on becomes easier as they break in. I also use a custom orthotic insole which created less space in the shoe as well. Boa dials work smoothly and comfortably cinch the top of shoe up without irritating my osteophyte on the top of my foot. I feel a synchronicity between pedal, cleat and foot interface i have never had before.
