Finding the best bike saddle for you can take a bit of work, but it's well worth the investment of time, and a little money.
An uncomfortable bike seat can turn cycling into a miserable experience – and can even lead to long term injuries if you find you’re sitting strangely in search of comfort.
The best bike saddle for you varies dramatically from one cyclist to the next - and is determined by a number of factors: anatomical differences, riding style, discipline and everything in between.
Men and women tend to favour different designs, this guide looks at men's saddles, and we also have a dedicated guide to the best women's saddles.
The big variance in what riders need means that there’s a huge amount of choice on offer. It’s finding the bike saddle that actually suits you which is the problem.
We've got a detailed guide to how to choose the right saddle for you, and it's well worth a read before you make your purchase.
Read on for a line-up of the best bike saddles that we've tested here at Cycling Weekly, or scroll down to the bottom of the page for our buyer's guide on how to choose the best bike saddle.
Our pick of the best bike saddles
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The Fizik Antares Versus Evo R3 adaptive saddle features the Italian brand's 3D printed padding, which creates the distinctive honeycomb appearance. It's a high-tech manufacturing process that allows for the creation of what Fizik calls 'zonal cushioning', that's firmer in places and softer in others, allowing it to adapt to the specific cyclist's body.
It also features a full length pressure relief channel, a carbon reinforced nylon shell that's adds some flex and 7x7 kium hollow rails. The combination adds up to a saddle that weighs 217 grams in the 139mm width version that we tested.
On review we found the saddle to be comfortable, with both the zonal cushioning and relief channel performing as you'd hope. Despite the appearance the holes in the padding made it pretty easy to clean dirt from the saddle with a quick spray of water.
In fact the only downside to the adaptive Antares saddle is the price, which is north of $250 / £250 unless you're lucky enough to find it on discount.
A good saddle for people who like to love around on the bike
The Romin Evo is a long-nosed saddle, suited to riders who like to move around on the bike, sitting on the nose during efforts and placing their weight back on the climbs.
Our tester for this saddle prefers a saddle with ample cut-out, and found that this did the job, despite being relatively narrow.
Specialized has used 'level 2 padding', and tested over rides of four hours+, we found this to be sufficient. The upper is made from a water-resistant Micromatrix material, which is resiliant and also quite aethetically pleasing.
The saddle comes in three widths (143mm, 155mm and 168mm - we tested the latter), which should provide plenty of choice to suit most bodies.
Initially marketed as a men's saddle, we've had male and female testers get on with this option - suggesting it has a wide appeal.
Read more: Specialized Romin Evo Pro saddle full review
Made up of thousands of 3D printed struts and nodes to help distribute pressure, Specialized’s beloved long-nosed Romin Evo design is now available with the brand’s Mirror technology. The result is an extremely comfortable saddle which, rather than feeling like you’re ‘perched on top’, you almost feel like you’re ‘sitting in’.
Our tester found that this makes for a more connected feeling with the bike, with high-power seated efforts feeling very planted. At the same time, road vibrations are a little more absorbed and not transferred to your rear. The saddle is also very lightweight for one that is so comfortable, at 192g (measured) in a 143mm variant.
The length of the Romin design works well for performance orientated riders who want to move their weight around as the effort dictates. Although an expensive saddle, its price is about the same level as rivals using similar 3D printed tech, but it is still a significant hike over similarly weighted saddles, such as the S-Works Romin Evo (without Mirror).
It all comes down to what you value. If you want the most comfortable saddle you’ve ever sat on (and you know the shape of the Romin Evo works for your riding style, and you and your sit bones), then this is worth the investment. The saddle is after all the connection point between us and the bike that we spend most of our time putting the most weight through.
Read more: Specialized S-Works Romin Evo with Mirror saddle full review
The honeycomb structure is comfortable, though hard to keep clean and comes at a price
Fizik's latest saddle incorporates an innovative new construction process and aims to create a custom, fit-to-body feel. It does this having partnered with third party Carbon - a high-tech material manufacturer that specialises in Digital Light Synthesis, a leading-edge 3D printing technology.
There are two brands who have worked with Carbon to create saddles using 3D printing: Fizik, and Specialized. Both brands have begun with just one saddle platform using the technology, and then gone on to produce more in this style - which implies they believe in the tech. However, it doesn't come cheap.
On test, we were impressed with the excellent support offered by the squidgy looking material. Without a doubt, this saddle allowed our tester to ride in total comfort. He found that the material offered a little more lateral give, which helped to isolate the body from road vitrations. The saddle shape suited our tester, who got on well with the pressure relief channel.
The only major downside is the cost, which is largely attributed to the fact that this is new technology.
On a minor gripe front, we found the honeycomb design can be hard to clean dirt out of.
Read more: Fizik Adaptive 00 VS EVO saddle full review
You certainly wouldn't miss catching sight of this vibrant option, and it's comfy too
The Ignite is Supacaz’s take on the modern short and stubby saddle. It’s not as truncated as other ‘short’ saddles and still has a fairly classic shape and proportions. Effectively, it's a middle ground between the currently fashionable short-nosed saddles, and traditional long-nosed options. This saddle has a pronounced 'kick' up towards the rear of the saddle, and wide wings to provide support to the sit bones.
Our tester found it one of the best in terms of all-around comfort and loved the loud colourways. The cut-out is quite wide, and Supercaz says this is a unisex saddle; our tester found the relief provided was sufficient. A 'thumb test' revealed plenty of squidge at the rear, with much more padding on offer here than would be the case on race orientated saddles.
The widths available ate 143mm and 155mm - making this not quite as inclusive as options from the likes of Specialized, who also cater for wider sit bones with a 168mm perch.
For a less race orientated saddle, Supercaz's perch doesn't come cheap, and of course not everyone wants a saddle that catches the eye as much as this one.
Read more: Supacaz Ti Ignite saddle full review
A long nosed saddle for riders who don't stay in one position
The Antares is a stalwart of the cycling industry, a long term favourite among those looking to balance comfort and freedom of movement.
This is a perch for those who like a long nose, affording the ability to adjust your body weight depending upon effort level. Our tester found that the model provided "the sweetspot of padding versus freedom of movement", with the wings offering slight flex which maintained comfort over long days out.
In the case of the Antares R3, the use of more affordable materials mirrors the fit of high-end versions without the sky-high price tag whilst flex at the rear moves with the rider.
Fizik offers detailed analysis to help riders to choose the right saddle for them, with this one tailored to 'Chameleon' riders, ie those not as flexible as the 'Snake' or as inflexible as the 'Bull'. It's an in-between option; for advice on which Fizik saddle to choose check out the brand's handy app.
There are two widths available, to ensure all riders can find the perfect fit. Colour options are limited, but from our experience, the vast majority of riders will choose the black option regardless.
Read more: Fizik Antares R3 saddle full review
The Power has proved a hit with many riders
The Specialized Power was the saddle that kicked off the short and stubby trend that has since seen just about every saddle brand launch their own version.
With a wide profile and sizable pressure relieving cutout, this is best suited to those who ride in an aggressive position, or spend a lot of time in the drops.
We reviewed the S-Works model but there are other price brackets available too, as well as a few other options. The MIMIC range for example, which is designed to alleviate soft tissue pressure some female riders experience when using saddles with large cutouts, has proved extremely popular among male riders too. Specialized also offers this model using 3D printing, in the Mirror guise.
An oft-reported downside of the Power is that the rear fans out, and can rub against some riders' hamstrings; the Power Arc is a variation which avoids this via a more rounded rear.
Overall, the Power saddle has collected a very high number of converts across the Cycling Weekly office. It might not be everyone's 10/10 favourite, but it's rare to hear a rider say they find it uncomfortable. If you like to fix yourself into a set position on the bike, then it's a solid option and well worth a try.
Read more: Specialized S-Works Power saddle full review
Another addition to the growing range of short-nosed saddles
A short-nosed saddle which might feel a bit strange if the stubby genre is new to you, but we found the design incredibly comfortable.
Since you're encouraged to sit in a static position, the set up can take a little longer but it's well worth the effort. There are not many saddles that we've sat upon that offered us so much comfort.
This saddle is well suited to both road and time trial riding, as it really locks the cyclist into a set position, helping them to stay put throughout the effort.
Compared to other short nose saddles, we found that a little additional padding on this version worked well and provided added comfort. The large cut out also added to overall satisfaction, and the squared off nose means you shouldn't experience issues with chafing at the front.
For those who like stubby saddles, and want a large cut out and a little more padding, this could be a winner, and from a value perspective, this one comes in lower than competitors.
Read more: Fizik Tempo Argo R1 saddle full review
A traditional long nosed saddle with a flat profile
The rise of the stubby, short saddle is great if it's a style you like - but what if you're a fan of a long nose? Never fear - there are still plenty of options, and this is one of them.
A weight weenie's dream at 114g, this saddle will suit a rider who wants a flat, narrow saddle. Our tester got on well with it, and is also a fan of the Fizik Arione shape, if that gives you a greater frame of reference.
Whatever your riding position, even aggressive on-the-nose styles, this saddle allows you to sit exactly how you wish without any obstruction or lack of comfort.
It's not totally perfect - we found that the rail cross section made it difficult to fit to some clamps, for example - but a little perseverance should allow you to overcome this.
Read more: Selle San Marco Mantra Superleggera Open saddle full review
One of the most popular men's road bike saddles
Fizik is famous for categorizing its saddles based upon flexibility and riding style. The Arione is suited to flexible riders and is quite a narrow perch, so it's best for the racer with a long and low ride position, which is why it's perennially popular with the pros.
The length provides plenty of room for a rider to move around and shift their weight as they climb and descend and to alter their position for comfort on long, fast days in the saddle, but the narrow width means it won't suit everyone. It does make the Arione a bit heavier than other saddles at its price though.
The Arione is an extremely popular saddle that suits a great many riders. There are narrower and slightly wider options, as well as a Versus option with a pressure relief channel and a Donna women's version in the Arione family.
Read more: Fizik Arione R1 Versus Evo Regular saddle full review
Fabric's unique padding method provides a lot of squish
Fabric offers low weight saddles, thanks to its unique method of glueing the padding and cover to the base. It looks like a traditional saddle, but squish the surface and you'll discover a decent layer of comfort.
Fabric Scoop perches come in several styles: the Flat models are ideal for those who sit in a more aggressive position, the Shallow versions suit more endurance orientated riders and the Radius is ideal for those in an upright position. There's a variety of rail materials , from steel through to carbon, as well as different materials used for the saddle base, which means that the Charge Scoop covers a wide price range.
Fabric Scoop saddles are a popular choice and fitted by a large number of bike makers to their bikes, but the relatively thin padding and unyielding base can become uncomfortable on longer rides.
Read more: Fabric Scoop Flat Pro saddle full review
Pro's short nosed saddle has a large cut-out area
A stubby saddle, a lot like the Specialized Power, the Pro Stealth has a wide pressure relief channel that suits riders who like to sit in an aggressive position and stay there. Unlike the Power, the rear is flatter and doesn't splay out quite so much, so it's a good option for those who find the power rubs their hamstrings.
You can add Pro's range of accessories to a purpose-designed clip on the back of the saddle: anything from a clip-on mudguard to an action camera.
It's a unisex option that comes in two widths and will suit time trial riders as well as regular roadies. Versatile.
The noseless design is popular among time triallists
ISM saddles are renowned for serving time trial riders and track riders particularly well, since the noseless design reduces pressure when you're riding on the rivet. ISM saddles are seen frequently aboard time trial bikes for this reason.
They can work well on the road too. Our tester gave this one 5/5 - though be aware that setting up an ISM saddle will be different to setting up a standard saddle as it works better when set further back on the seatpost, so check the instructions. Most dealers offer test saddles if you want to try one out before you buy.
Read more: ISM PN 3.0 saddle full review
The Best Bike Saddles Buyer's Guide
What causes saddle discomfort?
Discomfort in the saddle varies between riders, but among male riders is often the result of a saddle that is too narrow.
We all have different-width ‘sit-bones’. The ischial tuberosities are the parts of your body designed to bear your seated weight. Most cases of saddle-related discomfort arise because the load is carried on the soft tissues between the sit bones rather than by the bones themselves.
Also, bear in mind that the perceived width of your rear end has little to do with the actual bone structure. Good bike shops, and some brands, offer test ride programs so you can try before you buy.
Is a padded saddle more comfortable?
A common misconception is that more padding equals a comfier saddle. If this were the case the people who spend the most time on bikes -Tour de France riders - would be using veritable lazy-e boys.
The reality is that padding deforms and creates more contact, so on longer rides, it can be less comfortable. Thick, soft padding may initially seem like a good idea to alleviate saddle discomfort, but often a squishy saddle will just compress down under the sit bones and push up in the middle, shifting the pressure from your sit-bones to the soft tissue in-between.
Can a saddle be too firm though? Some riders (male and female) ride bare carbon saddles and get along fine. This isn't for everyone, but it does highlight that far more important than padding is shape.
To maximize comfort you should aim to get a saddle that is the right shape for your style of riding and sit bones.
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What's the best shape for a bike saddle?
Shape is the most important aspect of saddle comfort. Saddles come in a plethora of different shapes, designed to support different riders and different styles of riding.
Narrower, flatter saddles such as the Fizik Arione tend to suit more aggressive riders with a lower position. The Specialized Romin is another example.
A slightly wider saddle with a curved profile, such as the Fabric Scoop, is often the choice of riders who sit more upright. The Fizik Aliante and Specialized Toupé are also examples of saddles designed for a more upright position.
How do I measure my sit bone width?
Many bike shops have what we like to call 'bum-ometers' (we just made that up). These are devices that you can sit on and feature a memory foam. Your sit bones leave an impression in foam, the width of which can be measured.
A general rule of thumb is that the saddle width should be sit bone width +2cm. Specialized and Bontrager both produce devices like this to measure your sit bones and these are often available to try in your local bike shop.
Alternatively, if you don't have access to a bum-ometer you could always improvise with some Playdoh and a sheet of paper or a piece of cardboard. It's an important thing to remember that a bigger derriere doesn't necessarily mean you have bigger/wider sit bones.
Why do some bike saddles have cut-outs and relief channels?
So you've measured your sit bones, you're happy that your saddle is flat enough and the padding is good, but you still feel discomfort. The solution? You may need a cut-out.
Cut-outs and relief channels come in all shapes and sizes, and the best way to see if you'll benefit is to try one. Cut-outs and channels can relieve stress on soft tissues in your delicate areas. If you repeatedly experience discomfort this might be for you.
Is it bad to have a cut-out if you don't need one? Many people who don't need a cut-out comfortably ride saddles with cut-outs with no problems. However, some people find that cut-outs can increase pressure at the edges, or pinch delicate skin.
What are the best bike saddle rails made from?
The rails of a saddle create a frame under the seating area that fits into the clamp at the top of your seatpost. Most modern bikes conform to the same standard, so any reputable saddle will fit any reputable bike.
Rails are one of the main areas that affect saddle price. Entry-level saddles have steel rails, and the further up the price bar you move, the more you encounter manganese, titanium and carbon. As you progress through the materials, they get lighter and more expensive.
Carbon rails are the most expensive and the lightest. Carbon and titanium are also slightly more forgiving than steel, allowing for more comfort.
The important thing to remember is that the basic steel railed model will often have the same shape as the top end carbon-railed version.
How does a time trail bike saddle differ from a road bike saddle?
Riding in a time trial position requires most riders to be 'on the rivet'. This can mean the rider has a forward rotated pelvis, with the sit bones typically up, off the saddle surface.
In this forward position, the pubic bone and other soft tissues become weight-bearing. Triathletes and time trialists tend to favour special saddles that have effectively had the nose chopped off, like the Fizik Tritone or a double-nosed saddle like the ISM range.
This also enables pro riders to push the saddle further forward on the rails, as there is a current (arguably outdated) UCI rule that limits how far forward the nose of the saddle can go.
How do I choose the best bike saddle for me?
Finding the perfect saddle for you can take a little work.
First: try to determine what it is you don't like about an existing saddle - are there key aspects that don't seem right? If so, use those to determine what needs to change.
Riders who spend a lot of time in an aggressive position often want a pressure relief channel, while those who desire the freedom to move around a lot will favour a longer nose.
Next: shop around and look for models that are suited to your style of riding, level of flexibility and anatomy. Ideally, seek out brands that offer a proper fitting process such as the Selle Italia 'idmatch' that you'll find in all stores that stock their models.
Alternatively, hunt out the brands that offer test saddles from dealers. Fizik and ISM both provide this service.
Any returns policy on offer is important, too - some companies will allow you to buy a saddle to try it out and swap it for another if you are not happy with it within 30 days. This is very useful for testing a few options.
How can I make my saddle more comfortable?
Remember, changing your saddle can change your saddle height. If you get a new saddle, it is worth re-measuring your saddle height. It's also a good idea to check that the saddle is sitting at the correct position on the rails - getting this wrong can lead to discomfort elsewhere, such as knee pain.
Hopefully it goes without saying, but the shorts you'll wear on the bike make a difference to your overall comfort, too.
If you are regularly suffering from discomfort on the bike, make sure that you've invested in a good quality, properly fitting pair of cycling specific shorts before you blame the seat.
How we test
Cycling Weekly has a team of testers with vast experience of testing bikes, components, clothing and accessories across a wide range of prices and spec levels, so they know bikes and tech inside out and have the experience to know what makes a great cycling product.
Our experience means that you'll have a consistent, in depth viewpoint, which is reflected in our product scoring. You can find out more on our How We Test page.
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