[jmclnx]

I cannot comment on women issues, but for men, unless you are a pro racer, buy a brooks saddle. After break-in I never had issues and it was like riding on a cloud. I expect the same would be true for women too.

Also for break-in, follow brooks recommendations closely, not all the crazy suggestions on the WEB. After a season of riding almost every day, you will be sitting on a cloud. You do not want a soft saddle, but one that forms to your butt. I have been using the same saddle for well over 20 years, no issues plus it has lasted longer than any other saddle I have ever owned.

I never liked the saddles with the hole in them and I cannot help but wonder if the article is really an advertisement.

To me, if you are having this issue, see a qualified sports doctor first.

[blacksmith_tb]

I have ridden centuries on a few different Brooks saddles, and I personally had a lot more numbness problems with them (male genital version), but I have had better luck with Terry saddles (with a central cutout). They were developed for women riders, but also include a few men's models. I would say people will have to experiment, not just with the type of saddle but also positioning on the bike, getting a taller stem could help shift your weight back on the saddle, onto your ischials, for example; or raising or lowering your saddle (knees permitting).

[klyrs]

My mom and I swear by our Brooks saddles, and we both ride thousands (not tens of thousands) of miles a year. Brooks does offer some saddles with cutouts, but I'm unsure that it's necessary (according to the article, those cutouts may in fact increase pressure on labia). Once the saddle is broken in, it fits like a glove.

Another point raised in the article is getting a proper fit. Whenever I shop for bikes, I add about $800 to the price tag: for a new saddle, and a professional fitting. I am too old to fuck about with a bike that's gonna hurt me.

[drh]

Which Brooks saddle do you recommend? I see there are a few variations available.

[endisneigh]

Get the original leather classic

[jmclnx]

yes this, and I think they have a slimmer version for women(?)