Pas Normal Studios Sizing Guide: My Personal Experience with Their Collections and Fit

Finding the perfect fit with your cycling kits is always challenging. Pas Normal Studios, known for its diverse collections, unique cuts, and varying fabric types isn’t an exception. What fits perfectly in one jersey might feel entirely different in another. As a long-time Pas Normal fan, I’ve accumulated a broad array of their gear over the years, and finding the right sizes hasn’t always been straightforward.

In this post, I’ll share insights into my personal sizing experiences and preferences to give you a better understanding of how different Pas Normal items might fit. I’ll provide a detailed sizing guide based on my measurements to hopefully make your next Pas Normal purchase easier.

Whether you’re looking to add a new piece to your collection or trying the brand for the first time, this guide should help you make the best choice for your needs!

Sizing Differences Across Pas Normal Studios collections

When I made my first Pas Normal purchases back in 2019, I realized that sizing could be more nuanced with this brand and its wide range of collections. Before diving deeper, it’s important to note that my insights are based solely on the men’s collections as it makes sense I don’t have experience with the women’s lines.

To provide a clear context for the sizing discussion and my reference guide, let me first share my personal measurements for your reference.

My Personal Experience with Pas Normal Sizing

• Height: 1.83 m / 6.0 ft

• Weight: 72 kg / 158 lb

• Chest: 92 cm / 3.9 ft

• Waist: 85 cm / 2.8 ft

Now, let me break down how I approach the different collections and how to find the perfect fit.

Mechanism vs mechanism pro

Mechanism is Pas Normal’s race-fit collection, blending performance with contemporary design. It utilizes carefully chosen technical fabrics tailored to complement an aggressive riding posture.

Taking it a step further, the Mechanism Pro collection elevates the standard. It focuses on providing the ultimate ‘second skin’ feel and body wrap experience. The items in this collection feature laser-cut edges, a combination of stitched and bonded seams, and lightweight integrated grippers. Pas Normal Studios refers to Mechanism Pro as “a new calibre of pro cycling apparel” in their pursuit of speed solutions.

Below, I’ll break down the sizes I choose for each product within these collections.

Mechanism short sleeve jersey - S

Let me first state that I prefer my jerseys in a race fit. And that’s tight! While most people with my measurements might opt for a medium, I choose a small for the Mechanism Short Sleeve Jersey. I favor a snug fit not just for aesthetics but also because I dislike when the jersey becomes baggy at the back, especially if I’m carrying items like my phone in the back pocket. The front cut of these jerseys is fairly short, which suits me well while riding. However, I do need to adjust it and pull it down a bit when I get off the bike and walk up straight.

Mechanism pro short sleeve jersey - S

Similarly, I wear the Mechanism Pro Short Sleeve Jersey in size small, just like the regular Mechanism jersey. It’s worth noting that while the regular jersey is already quite short at the front, the Mechanism Pro version is even shorter. It offers an excellent fit while riding, but remember to tug it down a bit when you’re off the bike and walking into your favorite coffee shop!

Mechanism long sleeve jersey - XS

The Mechanism long sleeve jerseys are exceptionally stretchable. That’s why I opt for an XS size, despite usually fitting into a small. The smaller size ensures a snug fit, preventing the back from becoming too baggy when I store my phone or other items in the rear pockets.

Mechanism pro long sleeve jersey - S

I absolutely adore the Mechanism Pro Long Sleeve Jerseys. These jerseys are also highly stretchable but feature a more race-oriented cut compared to the regular Mechanism Long Sleeve Jerseys. Due to their short design, I go with a size small. Since they are snug both in the front and back, I don’t have to worry about the jersey becoming too baggy when I load my back pocket with my essentials.

Mechanism thermal long sleeve jersey - m

Unlike the regular Mechanism long sleeve jerseys, the Mechanism Thermal Long Sleeve Jerseys aren’t stretchy, as the chest and front arm panels are made entirely of wind and water-repellent Schoeller fabrics. For this reason, I opt for a medium size in this jersey. A small would be too restrictive for me, and the medium size allows just enough extra room to wear a thermal or regular long sleeve base layer underneath.

Mechanism thermal jacket - m

Similarly, the thermal jacket isn’t very stretchy due to its construction from a 3-layer fabric featuring a Windtex Pro Membrane. Therefore, just as with the thermal long sleeve jersey, I opt for a medium size in the thermal jacket.

Mechanism Pertex Rain Jacket - S

I believe the re-worked Pas Normal Pertex Rain Jacket is truly best-in-class compared to what you will find on the market. Pas Normal has done an impressive job crafting a rain jacket that strikes an ideal balance between being waterproof and breathable. It’s compact enough to easily fit into a jersey pocket. To me, this Rain Jacket is a very versatile layer that I actually use on dry days too, as a slightly warmer alternative to the Mechanism Stow Away Jacket. While the Rain Jacket isn’t as flexible as other layers, its slightly wider cut means I can comfortably wear a size small, which provides an excellent fit.

Mechanism Stow Away Gilet and jacket - S

The Stow Away Jacket and Gilet provide an excellent extra layer, ideal for early morning rides and chilly descents. Both are lightweight and compact enough to pack easily into your back pocket. As with the Pertex Rain Jacket, I wear both the Stow Away Gilet and Jacket in size small, and they fit perfectly.

Mechanism bibs - M

The Mechanism bib shorts are engineered for an optimal riding position without restricting movement, yet they are snug! But they tend to become more flexible after around 10 rides and washes. Designed for perfect posture on the bike, they feel incredibly tight around your hip flexors when standing upright. There’s no way a small would fit me, and upsizing to a large isn’t necessary. A medium is just right. But let me emphasize, they are tight! Perfect for riding, but when I hop off the bike for a coffee break, they almost make me bend over. And I’m quite serious with that.

Mechanism pro bibs - s

The Mechanism Pro Bib Shorts are crafted from a soft, stretch-woven fabric that offers a unique body-hugging, second-skin feel. Personally, I find them a bit too stretchy. Unlike the regular Mechanism Bibs, which provide firm belly support, the Pro version lacks this feature due to its ultra-stretchy and comfortable fabric, leaving the front a bit too loose for my liking. I own a pair in size small, but they don’t see much use. I’ve considered sizing down to an extra small for a tighter fit, but I’m concerned they would then be too short on the legs.

Mechanism Deep Winter Long Bibs - M

The Mechanism Deep Winter Long Bibs are designed as a highly technical piece, ideal for the harshest winter conditions. They are perfect for high-paced rides through the coldest months. Although the Windtex Pro Membrane in the 3-layer main fabric adds a hint of stretch, I find these somewhat limited due to the nature of Windtex. Also, I’ll be upfront. I don’t often wear these because they can get too warm for my liking. However, when temperatures plunge below 0°C (32°F) when roads are clear of ice, or if I’m venturing off-road, these are the bibs I reach for. And a medium fits me best.

essential

Pas Normal’s Essential collection is crafted with long, comfortable rides and casual cycling days in mind. The cuts are thoughtfully relaxed, providing a proper balance of comfort without appearing overly casual or loose.

essential short sleeve jersey - xS

As I’ve mentioned previously, I typically prefer my jerseys in a race fit. However, the Essential Short Sleeve Jerseys from Pas Normal, while not as race-fit as others, have quickly become favorites for my relaxed rides. Their quick-drying fabric makes them perfect for leisurely and long rides. Because of the highly stretchy material, I opt for an extra small size which ensures they remain snug enough not to sag under the weight in my back pockets, yet still long enough in the front to allow me to stand comfortably during mid-ride coffee stops.

essential LONG sleeve jersey - s

Similar to the Essential Short Sleeve Jerseys, the Essential Long Sleeve Jerseys also feature a slightly looser cut compared to the Mechanism version. They are crafted from a soft fabric with a grid fleece lining, offering a touch more warmth. Ideal for those slightly cooler days that don’t yet call for a thermal jersey. Due to the fabric’s limited stretch compared to the Mechanism series, I opt for a size small. This size provides a comfortable fit that’s snug without being restrictive.

ESSENTIAL thermal long sleeve jersey - S

The Essential Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey shares similar characteristics with the regular Essential Long Sleeve Jersey, particularly when compared to the regular Mechanism series. It’s slightly looser, warmer, and less stretchy. I primarily wear the Essential Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey when the weather turns colder but isn’t quite cold enough to wear my Mechanism Thermal Jacket. Small is unquestionably my size for this item. It fits comfortably without being overly loose.​

ESSENTIAL bibs - m

The Essential Bibs are designed for enduring comfort on long rides, featuring the same foam chamois used in the Mechanism bib shorts. The straps on the Essential Bibs are more comfortable and less constrictive than those on the Mechanism series. Although the main fabric is a tad thicker than that of the Mechanism Bibs, it remains stretchable while providing ample compression.

However, similar to the Mechanism Pro Bibs, I find that the Essential Bibs lack sufficient compression around my lower belly. Additionally, I’m not particularly fond of the leg grippers. They seem to wear out faster, though I admit this observation lacks rigorous testing. Consequently, I only own one pair of the Essential Bibs, in medium size.

ESSENTIAL thermal long bibs - m

Contrary to my lukewarm enthusiasm for the Essential Short Bibs, I absolutely love the Essential Thermal Long Bibs. They have become my go-to choice in autumn, winter and spring. And over time, I’ve got myself five pairs. These bibs are crafted from a superb fleece fabric with excellent water-repellent properties. The fleece provides outstanding insulation yet is thin enough not to hinder mobility. The straps ensure the bibs sit flush against my body, while a soft mesh backing enhances breathability. Wearing these in a medium, they’ve almost eliminated my need for leg warmers, and I only switch to the Mechanism Deep Winter Long Bibs when temperatures drop below freezing.

escapism

Escapism is Pas Normal’s collection specifically designed for gravel riding, tailored for off-road adventures. However, I find myself frequently using both the Escapism Jerseys and Escapism Bibs for road cycling as well. I have my specific reasons for this choice, which I’ll delve into further.

Escapism Knit short sleeve jersey - xS

Firstly, the Escapism Knit Jersey wins me with its stylish contemporary design and the fact you can pair the jersey with matching arm warmers. The jersey’s fabric excels in softness, breathability, and quick-drying capabilities, making it exceptionally comfortable for extended rides. Although it’s crafted with off-road adventures in mind, I find it equally perfect for faster-paced road rides. Similar to the Essential Short Sleeve Jersey, this jersey also features a sufficiently long front. I opt for an extra small to ensure it doesn’t become baggy at the back with pockets filled.

escapism bibs - s

The Escapism Bib Shorts hold the title as my favorite bib shorts, notably featuring four integrated pockets. Two on the thighs and two additional ones on the back straps. These bibs are exceptionally stretchy and comfortable, and I wear them in size small. The nylon fabric is slightly thicker, making them perfect for bib short rides in spring and autumn. But, I actually still wear them on hot days simply because I love the utility of the four pockets. However, when the temperature really climbs, I switch to the lighter version, the Escapism Light Bibs.

escapism light bibs - s

The Escapism Light Bibs are made from an ultra-thin stretch-woven fabric, offering exceptional lightweight comfort for those sweltering days. Unfortunately, these only feature a single pocket on the right thigh, which is a bit limiting. Another drawback for me is that the super stretchy fabric combined with ultra-elastic straps doesn’t provide much compression around the lower belly. Despite these points, I find these bibs, which I wear in size small, to be excellent for summer riding, suitable for both road and off-road adventures.

solitude

Pas Normal’s Solitude collection is designed for those peak summer rides, offering ultra-lightweight items perfect for long, hot days in the saddle. This is the ideal kit for rides that might even include a mid-ride bib dip to cool off.

solitude short sleeve jersey - s

The Solitude Jerseys excel in breathability and are designed to reduce clinginess, making a base layer unnecessary on hot days. The sleeves are designed without grippers for added comfort, positioning this as the ultimate summer jersey. It’s worth noting that these jerseys are cut even shorter compared to the Mechanism jerseys, which is why I opt for a medium size to ensure it’s long enough in the front yet remains appropriately short in the back.

solitude bibs - m

Matching the jerseys, the Solitude Bibs are tailored for hot weather rides. These bibs are engineered with unique air channels that run from the hems to the back panel, enhancing airflow and effectively moving heat away from the body. Constructed from a proprietary technical fabric, these bibs are superbly functional. I wear a medium, which fits well overall, although as with other Pas Normal bibs, I too find these slightly lacking in belly compression. Nonetheless, these bibs are indispensable for anyone that are not holding back making long rides on hot summer days.

baselayers

Pas Normal Studios offers a comprehensive range of baselayers, from thermal to mesh, ensuring the perfect layer for any ride.

In my collection, I have Mesh Sleeveless Base Layers, Mid Sleeveless Base Layers, Mid Long Sleeve Base Layers, and Thermal Long Sleeve Base Layers. I wear all of these in medium, except for the Mid Baselayers. I wear those in large.

The reason I wear the Mid Baselayers in large is because they tend to run really short. Additionally, they offer minimal stretch, making a smaller size uncomfortably tight under my armpits.

Despite the size feeling a bit off, each one is an excellent product, performing as you’d expect from Pas Normal.

pas normal size reference guide

For quick and easy sizing guidance, I’ll finish this article with a reference guide showing the sizes I wear across different Pas Normal collections and products.

PAS NORMAL JERSEY AND JACKET SIZING

pas normal short sleeve jerseys

• Mechanism Short Sleeve Jersey: small

• Mechanism Pro Short Sleeve Jersey: small

• Mechanism Long Sleeve Jersey: extra small

• Mechanism Pro Long Sleeve Jersey: small

pas normal long sleeve jerseys

• Mechanism Long Sleeve Jersey: extra small

• Mechanism Pro Long Sleeve Jersey: small

• Essential Long Sleeve Jersey: small

pas normal thermal jerseys

• Mechanism Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey: medium

• Essential Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey: small

• Mechanism Thermal Jacket: medium

pas normal mechanism STOW AWAY

• Mechanism Stow Away Gilet: small

• Mechanism Stow Away Jacket: small

PAS NORMAL BIBS SIZING

pas normal BIB SHORTS

• Mechanism Bibs: medium

• Essential Bibs: medium

• Escapism Bibs: small

• Escapism Light Bibs: small

• Solitude Bibs: medium

pas normal long BIBs

• Mechanism Deep Winter Long Bibs: medium

• Essential Thermal Long Bibs: medium

PAS NORMAL baselayer SIZING

• Mesh Sleeveless Baselayer: medium

• Mid Sleeveless Baselayer: large

• Mid Long Sleeve Baselayer: large

• Thermal Long Sleeve Baselayer: medium

Don’t pay too much!

Now, please know that it's not my intention to let you spend your well-earned money right away after reading this. Although, you probably landed here with a certain intention. So, if you feel teased to get yourself some cool Pas Normal Studios stuff anyway, I recommend you to get to the Maats Cycling Culture online store.

These guys are amazing people and official retailers of Pas Normal Studios. As it’s a multi-brand store, you’ll also find brands such as Maap, Rapha, Quoc, and their own brands Canvas and Maats. Their webshop offers fast worldwide delivery and outstanding service. But whenever it happens to be around, their stores in both Amsterdam and Utrecht are worth a visit as well!

As I’m really good friends with the guys of Maats, I can offer you this coupon that gives you 10% off on everything in their entire collection. You can use this coupon online at checkout or in their stores:

RDV10-H6V5

final thoughts

As mentioned, finding the perfect fit for your Pas Normal Studios items can be challenging, but hopefully, this guide provides clarity on sizing across their collections and products. Whether you’re into long rides, more casual types of rides, tackling steep mountain passes, or even racing, having the right fit can significantly enhance your comfort.

Through trial and error, I’ve found what works best for me, and now it’s your turn to explore and build your ideal Pas Normal wardrobe.

If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to ask me for advice in the comments below so you and others can find what feels right for your body and riding style.

Trust me, once you’ve nailed the fit, you’ll understand why this brand is so highly regarded in the cycling community!