Pick Your Saddles

Finding the right saddle to make riding enjoyable can feel like a never-ending quest. Many different companies offering multiple shapes and sizes of saddles is enough to make anyone’s head spin faster than their legs. Asking friends or riding partners for their favourites can make matters worse. So where should a rider begin?

For any saddle to work well for a rider, it has to answer two questions: Is the saddle the right width to support the pelvis? And will the shape of the saddle accommodate the rider’s position and riding style?

Commonly referred to as the sit-bones, the ischial tuberosities are located at the base of the pelvis and, as the common name implies, this is the part of the pelvis that sits on the saddle. There are a few methods of measuring the distance between the tuberosities, but local shops can accurately measure to determine sit-bone width. One important side note is that, contrary to popular belief, there is no correlation between rider height, weight or sex and sit-bone width. No one can determine which saddle will work based only on physical appearance.

Manufacturers typically design saddles so that the widest part of saddle is where the sit-bones will be placed. So, if a rider’s sit-bone width is wider than the saddle, their bodyweight will be placed on anatomy not designed to support that weight and the result is a very uncomfortable ride. Even a saddle featuring a centre cut out will not be comfortable if the sit bones are not supported.

To narrow saddle choice down from there, a rider needs to determine their flexibility and how they intend to use the saddle. With legs straight, can you bend over and touch your toes? Is the saddle going on a road, mountain, hybrid or comfort bike? Highly-flexible riders aiming to road race may prefer a fairly flat saddle with a long, narrow nose. Riders with less flexibility aiming to race may prefer a saddle with more curvature between the tail and nose. Do you have a hard time reaching your knees and your rides are the occasional roll through the neighbourhood? You may find a saddle featuring a wider, flat tail with a short nose be the most comfortable. But remember, simply adding more padding or gel to the saddle won’t make it more comfortable if the shape isn’t appropriate. It will just add material where it’s not needed.

Take your time and try a few saddles before you buy. Online shopping isn’t recommended here. Your local shop will be your best bet in ending the quest for comfort. Most shops have demo saddle programs and will give you the opportunity to try before you buy. Spend some extra time selecting a proper saddle and your sensitive parts will thank you.