The Pearl Izumi P.R.O. In-R-Cool bib short is a sturdy, comfortable, training piece with a seamless, well-placed chamois, a long inseam and a fabric treatment that deflects some of the sun's heat.
In-R-Cool is Pearl's name for the coldblack technology, which is made by Eschler. While the In-R-Cool fabric doesn't magically eliminate all heat, it does reduce surface temperature by a few degrees compared to a standard black spandex.
With a slightly compressive fit that moves easily as you ride, the P.R.O. In-R-Cool bib short is one of those bibs that you simply forget about when riding — which is exactly what you want. The quick-drying mesh upper body features wide, stretchy suspender straps that lay flat and don't bind.
The shape and placement of the 4D chamois are well done. The thicker parts sit atop the saddle, not well behind it, and the seamless design means no friction. (Curiously, we found the chamois placement in this short far superior to Pearl's P.R.O. Thermal bib short, which has an identical cut but a different body fabric.)
Riders who prefer a minimal pad may well find the 4D too thick, but only the area that mimics the saddle has any real girth to it. The thin front of the chamois rises up for decent modesty.
Pearl Izumi forgoes constrictive elastic bands at the leg hems, instead doubling the fabric under and adding small silicone dots. The end result is a comfortable, secure fit with a smooth look and feel – so no sausage legs!
Whether the long inseam (9in/23cm on a medium) is a positive thing or not is just a matter of personal preference. Compared to a common euro slim fit, the Pearl Izumi runs a little large, so consult the size chart before purchasing if you are shopping online. The shorts shown here are size large on a 6ft (183cm) rider.
