[MTBkitty]

I am realizing very quickly that my over a decade old saddle aint gonna cut it to cush my tush on the types of rides I plan on doing.

Not sure what saddle I have currently, it's the stock saddle that came with my bike in 1999 or 2000. It has OASIS printed on it's side.

Right now I've been riding on paved paths and a little bit of off road easy single track type stuff. Hope to work may way up to doing exclusively single track stuff, if that helps narrow down the good choices for me. I also have a $32 credit at REI so I'd like to buy the saddle there and stay as close to that amount if possible. But really, if the REI saddle selection stinks there's plenty of other goodies I can find in there

What saddles do you ladies love best? Why?

 

[mtbxplorer]

Good move, Kitty, very few stock saddles are comfy. I have had good luck with WTB's (Wilderness Trail Bikes) but also like the Specialized I put on in the fall - it is the Ariel model Stripes has, in the middle width, don't remember the number. The shapes seem to fit me without getting in the way, and they don't get shredded the first time they hit the ground. I would pick this WTB Speed She REI has for $39 if I were in your shoes, but saddles are always a bit of a gamble until you try them. You can also usually find some deep discounts on last year's models online.

 

[MTBkitty]

Thanks for the suggestions!
Do most shops have the ability to measure behinds?

 

[screampint]

Another option is demo saddles. I know Phyzik and WTB have demo programs, it would just be a matter of finding a bike shop that had them (then I would suggest supporting such shop, as they just provided you a great resource).

Saddles are a bit like bikes, they have to fit.

 

[MTBkitty]

To take advantage of a shop's demo program does one just approach anyone in the shop and state their intentions of shopping around for a saddle and express interest in if the shop has a demo program?

 

[mtbxplorer]

Yes, but if you are interested in a couple brands, they may also list info on participating shops on the company websites, which could save you some time.

 

[MTBkitty]

Thanks, I will check out the company websites.

 

[ICAsh]

Personally I don't get the need to measure sit bones. I've never met s saddle with a cutout I didn't like, but I also ride with a fairly cushy chamois. I have a Terry Butterfly in my commuter and it's great, even wearing jeans. It's fairly inexpensive, and my LBS said to bring it back within a month if I don't like it. That may be your best bet if you have a good relationship with your LBS.

I also have no issues with the stock saddle that came only Myka, and the Fizik that came on my Anthem. Then again maybe I'm not picky because I don't actually spend that much time sitting on it

 

[MTBkitty]

I am going to give the WTB Speed She a try. The middle part isn't a full cutout, just an indentation but I think it may still be OK. There's always the option of return though

 

[mtbxplorer]

Let us know how it works out!

 

[MTBkitty]

Most certainly will do. Got the saddle all installed this evening and hope to take it for a little test ride tomorrow. I think I'll need to make some minor adjustments with the seat angle and height though. I was moving things around too much in the switch over process I fear. Oh, and this is the Speed She Comp, not the ProGel.