Pearl Izumi Expedition PRO Bib Short – Women's Version

By Sheri Rosenbaum

4 stars

Pearl Izumi

Price: $265

Sizing: XS – 2XL

Inseam: 8.5″

Colors: Black, Floral (Grateful Dead Rambler Prism)

How obtained: From company

Available: Online or retail

RBR sponsor: No

A Closer Look at the Women’s Version

A few weeks ago, Brandon reviewed Pearl Izumi’s new Expedition PRO Bib Short from a male perspective. The men’s and women’s bibs are very similar, but I wanted to highlight a few differences and share my thoughts.

What I liked:

A new Women’s Levitate™ PRO Chamois pad with triple-density design was comfortable and supportive.
The drop tail design is different on the women’s vs. the men’s bibs. Brandon mentioned he had an issue when the fabric was wet from sweat. I struggled a bit because of my height—6’ feet—I’d prefer a longer bib strap. A shorter woman should have an easier time for a quick nature break.
The cargo side pockets were deep enough to securely hold my iPhone in one and nutrition in the other. I had to keep checking to ensure the phone was still there as I never felt it against my leg while pedaling. PI learned from MTB shorts designs by putting the pockets toward the back of the thigh—well done!

Dual side cargo pockets securely stow a phone, nutrition, or cash]

The laser-cut hem makes for a seamless transition from fabric to leg. And the wider strip of silicone grippers prevents the shorts from creeping up while pedaling. It also was very comfortable against the skin.

Silicone grippers keep the shorts from riding up while pedaling

Speaking of skin, the fabric was super soft and comfortable.

What I didn’t like:

The 8.5” is too short for my long legs and hits me mid-thigh—no man’s land. I’d prefer a 9.5-11” inseam for better coverage and a sleeker look.
The sample I received had the center strap clip reversed, so I had to twist the strap for the clip to work.

My sample had the clip sewn in upside down, requiring me to twist the strap to secure

The rear pockets are awkward. I wear a traditional jersey with three rear pockets on road and gravel rides. I don’t want to lift my jersey (especially while riding) to access a gel packet or other nutrition.

I didn’t care for the rear pocket design. It wasn’t convenient for me.

Bottom Line

The new Pearl Izumi Expedition PRO Bib Shorts are pricy but are very comfortable and fit well. The addition of pockets, comfortable chamois, and the drop-tail make it a good choice for longer rides and off the beaten path.

Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.