Rapha short sizing...is it me?

cycles goff
cycles goff Posts: 19
edited January 2012 in Road buying advice
Right first posh 3/4 shorts ordered, size L, 5'11 34'' waist. Sizing guide on the Rapha site states that's my size. Eventually they arrive & can't get them over my knees. Today XL replacement arrived and they are snug enough that the gripper digs into my calves which considering I have sparrow legs is quite something. Surely at 73kg I shouldn't need their biggest XXL size? Are these known to be cut to Italian sizing? Do they give a bit after a few washes?Cheers

Comments

  • on-yer-bike
    on-yer-bike Posts: 2,974
    Ive got M and Im 5' 10.5" 32" waist, 74 kg and they are fine except I think the curved seam at the knee is supposed to go below the knee which suggests they may be too short on the thigh. Ive had them for over a year though so sizing may have changed. I take M in everything else though.
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  • mrushton
    mrushton Posts: 5,182
    I'm about the size of the OP and M in Rapha works fine for me in shorts/base layers and jerseys etc
    M.Rushton
  • graham_g
    graham_g Posts: 652
    Legs like Greipel? Not tried shorts/tights but their size chart is a bit off for the top half IMO - size chart just too broad so unless you like a loose/baggy fit, you need to size down if you're at the middle to low end of your recommended size range.
  • gsk82
    gsk82 Posts: 3,658
    i've not got any rapha kit (other than mitts) but in general i ignore size charts and always go for a medium. most size charts say i need a small but my medium stuff is generally spot in with a snug fit
    "Unfortunately these days a lot of people don’t understand the real quality of a bike" Ernesto Colnago
  • Bizarre. I'm 5' 10.5", 81kg and 34" waist and M in the latest Rapha 3/4 bibs fits fine. They're very snug and take a bit of working over my knees - which you need to do carefully and not yank. Once done, they fit like a glove. If I bought a larger size, I'm pretty sure the chammy would move around. Sorry, not very helpful advice given that you've already worn them!

    It's a brand that pays to buy 2 sizes and return the unwanted size (their customer service is 1st rate). I've found I'm M in most of their products apart from jackets. The M gilet cut into me under my arms and large was the way to go.
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