Saddles

As individuals, our anatomies are all very different. What may be comfortable for one person may cause discomfort for another. This makes it very difficult to pinpoint exactly what saddle will be comfortable for you. What is essential though is to ensure that it offers the right support for your sit bones (pelvic bones). Thankfully, there is a very simple method for measuring how far apart your pelvic bones are. All you need is,

• A flat bench or chair to sit on
• A flat object that sits lower than the seat, that you can rest your feet on. A stool, box, or bench for instance.
• Piece of corrugated cardboard.
• Tape measure.
• Chalk (optional)

1. Take the cardboard and lay it on the seat.
2. Lower yourself onto the cardboard so it is aligned under your buttocks.
3. Raise your feet and place them on the lower footrest.
4. Try to simulate the position you would normally adopt when riding a bike. If you like a relaxed position sit more upright. If you prefer a more aggressive race position lean forward.
5. Hold this position for approximately 30 seconds.
6. Stand up and retrieve the piece of cardboard.
7. You should be able to make out 2 clear indentations imprinted upon the cardboard. These are produced by the sit bones and can be used to calculate your ideal saddle width. If you can't make out the indentations clearly, take a piece of chalk and rub it across the cardboard to bring out the indentations.
8. Next, take the tape measure and measure the distance between the indents. Use the centre of each as your start/finish points.

You can now apply this information to choose an appropriate saddle for your preferred style of riding. All saddles have a defined width so just find the one that best suits you.

Hybrid/Gravel/MTB

Add 20mm to the measurement, this will add more stability and comfort when assuming a more upright riding posture

Endurance Road/Gravel

Add 10mm to the measurement, this saddle offers a good compromise between comfort and performance.