Which Bike Seat Is Right For You?

Getting into biking may be surprised at all of the different options and variations for different bike components. One important factor when getting set up with a bike is the seat. Uncomfortable bike seats can lead to chafing, saddle sores, back pain, and pain in the pubic bones. The bike seat can really make or break the enjoyment of your ride, so read on to learn about different types so that you can choose one that suits you best.

Comfort/Noseless Saddles

If you are planning on using your bike for short commutes or recreational riding around the neighborhood, then a comfort or noseless saddle is your best bet. Comfort saddles are wider than other bike seats, so they have more substantial padding. Some people may opt for noseless bike seats as they are shorter in length, so they won't rub against your thighs. These seats are a good fit for people who sit more uprightly on their bikes than those that need to lean forward.

Comfort saddles can work well for both paved roads and the occasional trail or country road. Within this type of saddle, you'll have the option of foam or gel padding. Gel padding works great for casual riding, but it can compact more quickly than foam. Foam is great for larger riders or those who are planning to do a lot of riding.  

Performance Saddles

If you want to eventually race competitively, or you are just planning on doing long tours, then a performance saddle is a better option than comfort saddles. Performance saddles are longer and narrower and have less cushion. While these seats may have less cushion, their design is meant to improve your power output while pedaling. Their design allows for a full leg extension, and they will be more comfortable on very long rides.

Women can have a hard time finding comfortable performance saddles because of their anatomy; cut-out and very narrow performance saddles are not a good option. Women may want to look for performance saddles that have a bit more padding. Some people may prefer cut-out seats because it reduces sweating around the groin and prevents perineal compression and numbness. Ultimately, every body type is different, so it's important for riders to try out different performance saddles so that they can enjoy longer rides.  

Mountain Bike Saddle

As the name implies, mountain bike seats are ideal for mountain biking and heavy terrain riding. Mountain bike saddles tend to combine elements of comfort saddles and performance saddles. Since you will be standing up and shifting back and forth on the saddle during mountain biking, you need a longer saddle to accommodate this change in movement. Some cushioning is imperative to dampen jolts during hard landings.

Reach out to a supplier in your area (for instance, New Light LLC.) for more information on different bike seats.    

Share