The fit in the waist and length of these was perfect for me (5'6", 120 lb, usually pants size 28). I like that the length for me hits mid thigh, very much like the model in photo provided, and the little silicone-ish dots on the inside leg opening keep them from riding up without being noticeable or 'sticky' feeling. I also like the V-cut in the front, which makes leaning forward more comfortable than when I ride in higher waisted pants - although I generally have a thin stomach and don't feel the need to have the shorts hold me in.For me, the padding is just OK. The padding, roughly shaped like a T, seems thicker in the arms of the T, around the pelvic sit bones, and thinner in the crotch area. I could have used more padding in the crotch based on my seat and riding style, which I start to notice becoming uncomfortable about 3/4 of the way into my hour commute. In the end, I got these at a steep discount from list price (around $30) and am happy, but if I paid full price, I'd probably feel a bigger gripe about the padding not being exactly right for my usage.