Even on sale, these are expensive. But I have 5 pairs of Assos, so it isn't a shock. About half of my Assos have some kind of odd quirk, like binding/chafing on one side, too short (wife bought them as a gift), so I was open to try another brand. I haven't found a flaw in these Pearl Izumis. I have about 5 rides on them, with increasing distances to about 50 miles.
They are very tight; I was convinced to get a size Small based on other reviews, but I feel like a muffin top in these. (I am 5-9, 138lbs).
The only oddity is that the chamois seems to stop lower down on the butt than Assos. Maybe that is a size thing, or maybe it is just they way they are built, since it does cover the saddle contact area just fine.
Wow, first time wearing shimano shoes and really impressed with the confort, quality and how i perform with them. You will feel the power benefit from the first minute. You won't go wrong with them.
