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Let’s get one thing straight first and foremost, the form fitting Pearl Izumi Fly Evo Tights make my toned legs look really good. We haven’t even started talking about comfort, warmth, or performance, because let’s face it, looking great means feeling great. These super sweet winter running tights have now become my favorite running pants. The internal lining is super soft, and the external lining protects from the harsh conditions that I often times find myself running in. Overall, the Fly Evo Tights will surely be able to handle the wide range of conditions I tend to run in.
Technical Features
The Fly Evo Tights combine waterproof, windproof front panels with warm thermal back panels. The fabric is strategically placed for optimal range of motion, thermal regulation and protection from the cold. Pearl Izumi recommends wearing the Fly Evo Tights in temperatures between 8˚F and 22˚F. I have already blown those temperatures out of the water.
- P.R.O. Softshell Lite fabric front and back splash panels feature a breathable, waterproof and windproof laminate
- P.R.O. Thermal Fleece fabric panels provide optimal warmth
- 8” lower leg zipper with zipper garage
- Flattering wide waistband with flat stretch drawcord for superior comfort
- One zippered back pocket
- Articulated knee for additional comfort while running
- 28” inseam [size medium]
- Reflective elements on back for low–light visibility
- Front Panel and Back Calf Panel: 100% polyester
- Weight: 175g/m2
- Back Panel and Front Shin Panel: 15% elastane 58% nylon 27% polyester
- Weight: 255g/m2
Performance
I am an avid runner and I tend to run in any kind of weather. My weekly meet-up with a couple of friends happens no matter the conditions. That’s why I need my clothes to stand up to the test. When presented with the opportunity to put the Pearl Izumi Fly Evo Tight to the I was pretty excited. I have been wearing my Evo Tights in any weather condition; from snow to rain to downright cold temperatures. I don’t need anything over or under them. Long gone are the days when you thought layering up in three pairs of long underwear was a good idea to stay warm. The Fly Evo Tights function as one of my best pair of running pants without needing any additional layers.
I like showing off my toned legs in the form fitted Fly Evo Tights vs covering them up with bulky layers. The garment technology just like any technology has advanced so much over the years. The P.R.O. Thermal Fleece insulation properly line the interior and keep me toasty warm. The P.R.O. Softshell Lite fabric front and back splash panels external lining kept me dry from the rain or wet snow and help me thermally regulate when I perspire. The Fly Evo Tights protected me from the windy conditions so my legs never felt the chill.
I ran and finished 2nd in the Sourdough Snowshoe race in my Pearl Izumi Fly Evo Tights. For 11.4 miles the Fly Evo Tights stood up to the test of snow and wind. The best part about my tights is that while keeping me warm and dry they are also extremely soft and light. I feel like I have nothing on. The only thing I do notice initially when I put them on a bit of bunching from residual fabric around the knees. Although over the course of my run that was never my focus as the Pearl Izumi Fly Evo Tights performed really well. A wonderful new addition to the running apparel closet.
I have also worn my Pearl Izumi Fly Evo Tights skiing under my ski pants as a base layer. They allow for flexibility without being restrictive under my ski pants when I rotate back and forth. Plus the P.R.O. Thermal Fleece insulation lining the interior added that extra layer of warmth when I needed it most. I was toasty warm on the slopes especially when sitting on the chair lift waiting to hit the slopes.
When washed on the delicate cycle with detergents without fabric softeners or perfumes the Pearl Izumi Fly Evo Tights did great. There was no shrinkage, discoloration, or jeopardizing of the softness from the internal lining. They have maintained their shape and external shell even after a dozen or more washes
Final Thoughts on the Pearl Izumi Fly Evo
I have enjoyed wearing my Pearl Izumi Fly Evo Tights in many different conditions ranging from snow, rain and windy days. All of which have been no match for my PI tights, and have stood up to the ultimate test to keep me dry and warm. They are very comfortable and soft thanks to the interior lining. I definitely recommend these to runners, snowshoers, hikers and walkers. In addition they work great underneath ski and snowboarding pants. For more information visit the website: www.pearlizumi.com or www.amazon.com/pearlizumi.