Types of Bike Saddle Material

The main debate in bike saddles is whether to choose a bike saddle made from leather, plastic, or the new gel options. Your choice will depend on how far you are planning to ride your bike and how sensitive you are to moisture. People generally find a material that fits and stick with it.

• Tried and true old-school option.
• Needs to be broken in for about 100 miles.
• More comfortable after the saddle has been broken in.
• Requires alot of maintenance.

• Weighs less than leather.
• Weatherproof, so it keeps you drier.
• Does not need breaking in.
• Is usually cheaper than leather.

• Gel molds to your body and has true volume that never reduces the longer you ride.
• Gelfoam has a pliable feel and springs back into shape, but will compress with use.
• You can get gel and gelfoam inserts for any bike saddle.

Related Bike Saddle Guides

Choosing the right bike saddle
Tips for preventing bike saddle soreness
Common bike riding positions