Bib Shorts Sizing
 

I'm ordering my first pair of bib shorts and Im not sure what size to get.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...=ATVPDKIKX0DER

I've read the sizing chart, but still, that is a std chart for amazon and I dont know if the Peal iZUMi's run big or small or what. I'm 5'11", 175lbs, 32-33 inch waist. I was going to get a medium, but then i worry they might be too short, but I dont want to get a large and have a baggy pair of bibs, thats just silly. Also, does any of this stuff shrink when washed? Same question applies for a jersey. I know some people might say to go to LBS and try on stuff and get a pair there, but I have a gift certificate to amazon, so that is where I am going to purchase. Thanks for the input.

Pearl Izumi's run huge. I wear a small and they could still be snugger, but they don't make a smaller size.
Sportful, Gore, Castelli, I wear a medium and they are proper compression fit.
Cotton shrinks, technical fibers do not.

It's always a bad idea to buy things online that directly interface your body (saddle, shoes, clothing, gloves) if you are not very familiar with fit. I only ordered shorts/jerseys online after several local purchases to have a good idea of sizing.

My recommendation? find something else to use your amazon gift certificate on.

+1 To trying it on first if you can, but you generally choose bibs by waist size unless you have some wacky proportions.

This recent thread may be of some help.

I'm 6'-4", 175 pounds with a 34 inch waist and the PI larges fit me just right. I would recommend trying them on and then ordering online. You'll have plenty of reasons to buy from the LBS in the future.

Bike clothing is a world of its own. One brand's M might be another brand's L or S. It really is trial and error to find your correct size. I would never mail-order a piece of bike clothing that I wasn't already familiar with.