I began with shorts, but will be purchasing bibs from now on based on my experience with bib tights this past (at long last!) winter. Much more comfortable--less binding about the waist. Everyone has a preference.....mine is Giordana. Comfortable chamois, great compression fit. By the way, they're on sale right now (got e-mail ad today) at SierraTradingPost.com. Several brands/styles -- Giordana, Biemme, Zoot, etc.
Pearl Izumi on sale now @ Performance, along with their house brand. Haven't checked Nashbar lately.
~ OldGoat