What is the position you ride in or your riding angle?

Bike saddles are designed to match the body position you ride in and the type of bike you have.

• Upright or very close to having a straight back (common position on town or cruiser style bikes
• Slightly tipped forward or forward bent (common position on trail, commute and mountain bikes)
• Aggressive forward bend or dropped handlebar position (common on road riding bikes)

Choose your type & time…

The shape of the saddle is designed to match the type of riding you do.  By this we mean where you ride most often – town, commuting, bike path/trails, mountain bike trails, touring, or road riding. For example, a pear shaped saddle has more width at the rear of the saddle giving optimal support directly under the sit bones for the upright town rider.  Contrast this with a T shaped saddle.  Mid to narrow rear width which quickly thins to the front section, for a higher intensity ride that supports repetitive pedalling and will eliminate the likelihood of chafing.

The padding and cushioning should then match to the time spent on the bike – Casual (usually under 1hr), Fitness (usually 1-3hrs, 2-4x/wk) or Consistent (usually 1-4hrs most days).  It will also be influenced by how regularly it will be used – 1/2 times a week versus most days.  All year round, all types of weather versus warm weather riding.

Choose a saddle that reflects the type of riding you do most often.  For big days or special trips add endurance padding in the form of a chamois (see the full range of stories on Padded Bike Pants/Underwear for Women) and/or add a gel seat cover.

Saddles are gender specific

To be comfortable on your seat you need a seat that matches the width of your bony structures and the soft tissue you have. Women’s saddles are wider and shorter to match our physical structure. Making sure you get the support and cushioning in all the right places.  Most women will benefit from using a gender specific saddle but there are exceptions to this rule, you will probably be aware if you are a women with narrow hip structure.

Do you suffer from a specific issue?

Sit bone ache: Is the width of your saddle supporting your sit bones correctly?  Is the level of padding you have correct for the riding you are doing?  Read our story Sit Bone Aches & Pains

Soft tissue compression: A cutout (hole) in the centre of the seat will relieve tenderness and reduce pain. Generally the wider the cutout the greater the relief. All the women bike saddles we sell have a cut out for comfort and relief.  Read our story Soft Tissue Compression on your Bike Saddle

Tailbone discomfort: The shape of the rear of your saddle (inverted V gives space for your bone) and the strength of your abs, failing to work as you tire, are the two most important factors here. Read our story Tail Bone Discomfort when Riding

Chaffing or saddle sores: Again saddle shape is really key here.  Your sit bones must be correctly supported and your legs need room to pedal.  Read our story Chaffing, Saddle Sores & Your Bike Seat

Types of cushioning

What is the padding on the saddle made of? Different materials used offer different benefits.  Foam is the most common padding and it comes in different types of density.  The higher the density the better over time (for longer rides/endurance saddles). Don’t be fooled into thinking that a squishy soft saddle will solve your discomfort it will quickly collapse and you will be left sitting on the seat shell!  It is better to add gel than add cheap soft padding. There is a balance you must get right between support and cushioning.  Learn more about these features of a saddle…

Quality materials

Higher quality saddles will generally use higher quality materials that do not compromise and will last you through years of riding.  As you ride more regularly the durability of your saddle should match to the high use.  Invest well now and you will have a saddle to use for years to come. Your saddle should ideally be 500gms or under.  

Your Rider Profile

Choosing the right bike saddle can be a confusing task.  We would like to make it simpler.  Having a clear idea of what you are looking for is key.  When you understand the type of rider that you are it makes the process easier.  Please take a look at our Rider Profile story.  Following the example given in this story shows you how to identify key features to look for in a saddle and will make your choices more obvious.