Pearl Izumi

One of the benefits of all the training I've been doing is that I've whittled my body down to perfect size 10. Perfect that is according to Pearl Izumi's Fit Model Standards for height and body measurements. Pearl Izumi, a premier cycling and running wear manufacturer, has been my number one go to for cycling gear for years so when I had heard about PI's fit model opening I thought it would be a great opportunity to see their new designs and maybe even have some input on the final product.

I applied for the job online and after a few weeks they asked me to come in for an interview and a measure. I passed the first hurdle and was asked back for a follow-up meeting with the designers. I was given a set of accessories, a cycling short and top, and a running short and top to try on. The designers all asked questions about the various outfits - were the sleeves and leggings long enough? was the chamois in the bike short too big/too small/in the right place? did the liner in the running short ride up?

I answered all their questions and they thanked me for coming in. They took one final measurement of my torso running the tape measure from the front of my neck, through my legs, and up to the back of my neck. The results showed that my torso is 2" shorter than that perfect size 10. 

At that point I figured I'd be disqualified and that would be the end of my fit model career. No amount of  exercise could change my skeletal structure. Needless to say, I was ecstatic to get an email from PI the next day offering me the job!

I can't wait to get started! I am so excited to be a part (even a small part) of the Pearl Izumi design team! The design process from concept to manufacture is a long affair so the gear that I'll be modeling will be available in 2 years.