The comfort of a bicycle saddle is very subjective and depends on the body shape of each cyclist as well as their personal preferences. However, some brands are known for offering saddles that offer good comfort. Here are some tips and recommendations for finding the most comfortable bicycle saddles, as well as a list of well-established brands in the field:
Advice and recommendations:
1. Try before you buy:
It is essential to try several saddles to find the one that suits you best. Many bike stores offer saddle trial programs, allowing you to test out different models before making your choice.
2. Know your body shape:
The width of the pelvic bones varies from person to person. It is therefore important to measure the gap between your pelvic bones to choose a saddle of appropriate width. Some bike stores offer special measuring tools to determine your ideal saddle width.
3. Take your driving style into account:
If you spend a lot of time in a reclined position on your bike, a flatter, narrow saddle might be more comfortable. If you prefer a more upright position, a saddle with a little more padding might be preferable.
4. Consider padding:
Too much padding can lead to pressure points and discomfort, especially over long distances. Opt for a saddle with enough padding to give you good support, but not too much to avoid blood circulation problems.
5. Check the rails and hull:
Titanium, carbon or stainless steel rails offer different levels of lightness, flexibility and strength. Make sure the saddle shell is stiff enough to provide good support, but flexible enough to absorb road vibrations.
List of brands known for their comfortable saddles:
1. Brooks England
- Known for its high quality leather saddles offering excellent comfort and classic style.
2. Specialized
- Offers a wide range of ergonomic saddles designed to suit different types of cyclists.
3. Selle Italia
- Renowned for its light and comfortable saddles, with a wide choice of models adapted to different riding styles.
4. Fizik
- Offers premium saddles with innovative design and quality construction for optimal comfort.
5. ISM (Ideal Saddle Modification)
- Specializing in ergonomic saddles designed to reduce pressure on the perineum and improve comfort, particularly for cyclists suffering from saddle-related health problems.
It's important to note that the best saddle for you will depend on your body type, riding style and personal preferences. Do not hesitate to try different models and seek professional advice if necessary.