I've been biking for over 10 yrs, taught spin for 6 yrs and have been doing Ironman triathlons for 6yrs. I've tried all types of bike and tri shorts and these are my fav. I usually save and wear these for longer distance rides. The padding is great in these shorts and they also fit nice. And look good. I've had a hard time finding a good shammy that doesn't leave me sore. I'm an athletic build with strong quads and a butt. I'm asize 6 pants and always buy medium shorts and these fit perfect. Top to go with is sleeveless and looks great too. I ride in CO up mountains and rolling hills, works great. Love pearl IzumiI ordered these shorts in the Stripe Orchid color in medium (based off of Pearl Izumi's size chart). The fit was perfect and I really liked the way they looked and the way the material felt. However, the white part of the shorts is completely see-through! I tried them on wearing underwear, of course, but immediately noticed that I could see way too much of the underwear. Not to be overly graphic, but the white part hit across the top third of my butt crack, which I know would be seen since I can see my hands so clearly through the material. Just can't take that chance, bent over on my handlebars, riding with friends. Since I liked the shorts so much, I am returning the Stripe Orchid color and requesting the Moonflower Black, which has a black panel running across the back instead of white. I hope this color will work out better. This issue is really unfortunate considering these are otherwise really nice biking shorts.I have read the review in which someone has said that the white part is transparent. Yes, it is. It seems as if something is underneath can be seen. So if you wear underwear then it is obviously can be seen - However, if there is nothing but your flesh then nothing can be seen. Besides,a cycling jersey is usually long in the back; it can cover the white part that I love to show, because the design is so beautiful to be hidden. I am very pleased with this pair. If it is cheap enough, I want to buy another one.These shorts are great except you can see through the white material. The chamois is comfortable and I don't feel like I'm walking around with a ton of padding. I'm going to buy a white compression pant to wear underneath so the cyclist behind me won't get the giggles from the peek-a-boo material.I have tried other bike shorts for my "spinning" classes. These were the most comfortable ones I have found so far. I highly recommend them. They are comfortable and well padded.Fits great!