So I was riding with a Giro Aether for the past couple years for reference. I wanted an aero helmet because I'm doing a lot of faster rides and I'm looking for free speed. This helmet feels like the future. With the integrated eye shield I don't ever get watery eyes from the wind at high speed. The airflow is at least as good as my Aether so that's not a compromise. The fit is perfect for me (I have an oval head shape). And with this helmet I went about 1mph faster over a three hour endurance ride (22mph vs 21mph). I was initially thinking that I would keep my Aether for warmer days or slower rides, but somehow the Vanquish keeps my head just as cool and I don't think I'll need my old helmet anymore.
Very impressed with the overall material and fit quality of these bibs. Especially for the price. I appreciate that the inseam is long enough and the shoulder straps are also long enough compared to several other brands.
The chamois has also proven to be very comfortable. I've used these for about 10 rides or so this far and love them.
The only possible negative is the shoulder strap material is the same as the rest of the bibs, so can be a little warmer than others that might use a lighter mesh material in this area.
I've been using these Castelli arm sleeves for years. I am happy to minimize the amount of sunscreen I use on my body while maintaining good UVA protection. In addition, I am able to use these even in the hottest weather as the sweat on them wicks off at speed and has a decent cooling effect. The only think about them is the price and the fit - it's tough getting the upper arm attachment flat and comfortable at tiimes and the wrist area can sometimes be loose.
PI definitely hit the mark with these shorts compared to previous iterations, with similarly cushy chamois that's now more fitted and less compressive than older versions. It does a nice job of cushioning on long rides ensuring my perineum doesn't get sore like it does with other brands. I also like how it extends further forward to a bit beyond the perineum, to cushion my man parts just enough to avoid numbness and damp down hard road vibrations, without those parts feeling like they're being stuffed up into my intestines.
The main body fabric is a wonderful blend of stretchy, while being form-fitting and compressive, and it breathes well and doesn't heat up excessively in 90+ degree temps. At 6'3" and having a moderately long torso, these are one of the few bib shorts in a L that have long enough straps I can wear them and not end up with stiff shoulders, neck and upper back from the straps digging in, especially on long and/or vigorous rides.
These are definitely pricey, but well worth the sale price cost. Hoping they last for many years of use and I bought a few at a time to have plenty to rotate.
