Pearl Izumi has long been regarded as one of the top manufacturers of cycling clothing on the market. Top cyclists worldwide flock to their kits and the P.R.O. Pursuit is a good value among top-shelf bib shorts on the market.
Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Pursuit Features:
- Fabric offers a balance of stretch and support
- Uses Coldblack® for added cooling on hot days
- P.R.O. Pursuit 1:1 Chamois with multi density foams
- P.R.O. Transfer Direct Vent mesh bib upper provides excellent moisture transfer, odor resistance and dry time
- Applied silicone grip material at leg opening holds short in position
- Reflective elements (black colorway) for low light visibility
- 10″ inseam (size medium)
- MSRP: $195
Excellent fit, quality materials
My two key features of any bib short are, of course, the chamois and the bib straps. Straps eh? Yup… I’m picky about my straps and thankfully Pearl Izumi has nailed them here. Elsewhere, these bibs offer a body-hugging fit and comfort for long days in the saddle.
The panels are nicely-cut and well-placed for optimum compression and comfort. The only exception I’m seeing is a seam across the backside just above my backside. It feels odd at first, but disappears. In general, a seam across the backside is a bit of a “no-no” for me. Aside from that, these feature wide leg cuffs with silicone grippers at the ends (standard stuff). As opposed to some designs that also feature extra-wide leg openings, these don’t restrict leg movement or dig into your hamstrings.
I will note that the S-shaped panel that goes from the hip down to the leg cuffs does tend to bunch up a little and, unfortunately, it doesn’t feature a flat-locked seam — something I’d expect throughout at this price range.
The straps are ultra-comfy and the whole upper provides extra frontside coverage without interfering with bathroom needs. The uppers are easily-stretched when it comes time for relief. The straps breathe well and have delivered chafe-free performance after hundreds of miles of use.
The P.R.O. Pursuit 1:1 chamois is quite nice and features a smooth transition between density layers. I found it to offer good comfort across a variety of saddles, but it’s not the cushiest chamois on the market. It’s good, don’t get me wrong, but there are better.
I’ll add that I tested these bibs for both road and mountain biking. They are durable enough for MTB use, no problem — I had a good crash in them and they show no signs of it.
A Note on Fit: I’m 5’11” and 170 lbs. The size large fits quite well.
The Good
- Chafe-free straps that breathe well
- Easily stretches for nature breaks
- Good compression and comfort
- Is an excellent value among top-end bibs
- Can withstand MTB abuse
The Bad
- No flatlock seams
- Bunches up a little on the inner-thigh
- Odd seam placement on the backside
The Bottom Line: Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Pursuit Bib Short
The P.R.O. Pursuit bib shorts deliver excellent uppers with comfortable, breathable straps and a good chamois. All things considered, they are a good value for the price as Pearl Izumi keeps these just under $200. Most of the competition goes well north of that price for their top-of-the-line bibs.
Buy Now: Available at CompetitiveCyclist.com
