Choosing bicycle equipment is complicated. You must consider what type of riding you want to pursue, what frame material and gear systems are best, for example. Unfortunately, the bicycle seat is often overlooked when choosing equipment. The best bike in the world is worth nothing if the seat makes it unbearable to ride. The best bicycle seat for males is not about space age materials or radical designs, but about simple fit and adjustment.
Problem
Because bicycle seats are very narrow, they often place great amounts of pressure on the soft tissue between your legs, often called the perineum. This area is delicate and houses the pudendal nerve. Increased pressure on this area can pinch nerves, causing numbness and pain. Many bicycle seats have attempted to compensate for this problem with a design that hollows out the middle of the seat. However, this design only addresses the symptoms, not the problem. The solution and the best male bicycle seat is the one that fits you properly.
Ischial Tuberosities
On either side of the perineum are the ischial tuberosities, more commonly thought of as your "sit bones." These hard bones are the preferred contact point for you when sitting on a bicycle seat. The rear of all bicycle seats is wide, with a padded section on each side. Your ischial tuberosities should contact this middle of these padded areas. With the right fit, your perineum will not be forced onto the seat surface and you will find more riding comfort. Different seats have different widths, so try several before you make a decision.
Adjustment
Once you have found a seat that matches the width of your ischial tuborisities, or sit bones, you need to properly adjust it. When seated on a bicycle you should have balanced weight between your seat and your handlebars. Seats adjust in three ways: vertically, horizontally and by pitch. Vertical adjustment is related to leg extension and should be adjusted so that your knees are slightly bent when fully extended. Horizontal adjustment should create a slight bend in the elbows when your hands are on the handlebars. Pitch is mostly a matter of personal preference and comfort, with level being the neutral position.
Considerations
Don't assume that a more expensive bicycle seat is more comfortable. Fit is the most important consideration. If it has been several months since you have ridden a bicycle, allow time for you body to adjust to riding again. Don't automatically blame a seat for being uncomfortable on your first ride of the season. Once you have found a seat that fits you, consider other features including weight and material.
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