What To Look For
The most important aspect of the saddle is that it fits you and your type of riding. Cross country saddles tend to be narrower to allow comfortable movement of the legs when leaning forward, while freeride or downhill-oriented seats are wider and burlier to support your weight. Some freeride-specific seats include features aimed at jumps and tricks.
The wide rear part of the seat should center and support the two sit bones in your rear. If you have a problem with numbness or irritation in a specific area, look for a saddle that features cut-out holes or channels on these areas. The seat should have a comfortable mix of padding and a heavy, durable exterior covering. A rounded, dropped nose will make maneuvering forward and backward on the seat with baggy shorts more comfortable. As in other bike parts, lightweight materials like carbon fiber and titanium will help when you're trying to cut ounces.
Common Pitfalls
Don't think that an ultra-soft, springy seat is going to provide the most comfortable ride. The saddle bears much of your weight for ride after ride, hours upon hours. Very soft padding, which may feel plush at first, can slowly wear out, causing discomfort in the areas that contact the seat most often. You need a saddle that fits your body and provides a mixture of padding and support. Fitting the saddle is a much better solution than just purchasing the squishiest saddle on the market.
Another common mistake is prematurely blaming the saddle for discomfort. Before trading in the saddle on your bike, carefully adjust the height, angle and position of the seat to get it just right for you. If it's still uncomfortable after several rides, then consider a new saddle.
Where To Buy
Since the effectiveness of any bicycle saddle hinges on fit and personal preference, it's always best to shop in person. Shop at a local bike shop that carries mountain bikes and accessories, and try the saddle out before buying it. Verify that you can pedal comfortably without any chafing of the thighs and that the saddle offers ample support while minimizing pressure. Also ask about the return policy, because you won't truly be able to gauge the comfort and performance of the saddle until you've put some mileage on it.
Cost
Like all bike components, saddles range wildly in cost, anywhere from $20 to over $200. More expensive models feature expensive materials like carbon fiber, titanium and leather toward lowering weight and increasing comfort.
Comparison Shopping
Saddles come in both men's and women's varieties and are shaped differently to meet the different needs of typical body shapes.
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