Pearl Izumi
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Recent Reviews
This is my first neck warmer (aside from what's built in on a balaclava), so I don't have a lot to compare to.
However, I've been satisfied with it, and use it all the time lately in the winter on both rides and jogs.
The material is pretty thin, but it seems to do a good job of keeping my neck (and face) warm. Also, it's not a tapered hourglass piece of fabric, like it kind of looks like in a picture, but just a straight rectangular item when you put it out flat. It's got a bit of a stretch to it, so it goes easily over your head, and fits around your neck ok. I can use it several times before it begins to stink, probably due to the merino wool content.
If it's really cold, I can pull it up so it covers my ears and nose and mouth, or keep my nose out if I want. It will fit that way under a cycling cap with ear "flaps" so your ears keep warm.
I should have bought this a long time ago.
These are my go-to chamois cycling shorts. The cost twice as much as entry level shorts but over the course of the year they are worth it. I ride 3 to 4000 miles per year and I buy a new pair every year. I have had sit-bone pain issues at times related to lumbar stenosis (according to my PT) and the padding in these shorts is really helpful. Any item (shorts, shoes, gloves) where your body is having contact with the bike is worth investing in. Highly recommended.
This jacket is a lot simpler than a similar PI jacket I bought 10 years ago. No pockets, no venting, not very thick. But, I really like how it rolls up and easily fits in my jersey pockets. It is now my go-to "just in case" extra layer. Unlike some pull-over jerseys I have, no need to take my helmet off to get this jacket on or off. And the high-visibility yellow is great.
I have not yet tried this in the rain to see how water proof it is. My 10 year old PI jacket is great in this regard.
I know that Pearl Izumi is proud of their products. I've bought some for my girlfriend and they seemed good. This one is for me. First, I was surprised how thin and seemingly insignificant this jacket is, especially for its price. But a soon as I tried it on, I appreciated the PI design and fit. I could tell that the people who designed this jacket have some biking experience.
After a couple of trail rides, I found out that this jacket is exactly what I wanted. Comfortable and functional. Blocks the wind very well, yet I don't feel like I'm wearing a plastic bag. Minimalistic features are perfect. There are no pockets which is fine with me because I hate shirt pockets for biking. I'm glad that I bought one size larger than normal so that I have flexibility on what can I can wear beneath.