Saddle-induced numbness and discomfort are common issues for many female cyclists. However, recent advancements in saddle design have led to innovative solutions that prioritize comfort and support. This guide aims to help you find the best women’s road bike saddle that suits your unique anatomy, ensuring a more enjoyable and pain-free riding experience.
Understanding Your Needs
It’s crucial to recognize that women come in various shapes and sizes, particularly in the pelvic region. Therefore, what works for one person may not work for another. Factors such as sit bone width and soft tissue sensitivity play significant roles in determining the right saddle for you. Before making a purchase, consider getting your sit bones measured and, if possible, undergo saddle mapping at a bike shop. This will help ensure that you choose a saddle that offers optimal support and comfort.
Testing and Returns
Many top saddle brands now offer the option to buy and return saddles within a set period, often around 30 days. Some companies even provide test saddles to help you determine the best fit. It’s worth checking with bike shops and online retailers about their return policies to take advantage of these opportunities.
Best Women’s Saddles Available Today
1. Specialized Power Expert
Best Overall
- Price: £115.00 / €150.00 / $155.00
- Widths: 130mm / 143mm / 155mm / 168mm
- Weight: 230g / 233g / 235g / 238g
- Pros: Unisex design, wide range of widths, comfortable with a good-sized cut-out, rear mounting for accessories
- Cons: Not the lightest
Designed with Specialized’s Body Geometry technology, this saddle offers various widths and a substantial cut-out, making it a favorite among many riders. It supports forward hip rotation during hard rides and provides comfort in a more upright position. Although slightly heavier than some options, its overall comfort and support make it a top choice.
2. PRO Stealth Superlight
Best Carbon Fibre Saddle
- Price: £280.00 / €361.00 / $317.00
- Widths: 142mm and 152mm
- Weight: From 145g
- Pros: Very comfortable, attractive design, rear mounting for accessories
- Cons: Oval rails may not fit all seatposts, expensive
This super lightweight saddle features a one-piece carbon rail and base. Despite its minimalist padding, it provides exceptional comfort, even during long rides. The wide, flat nose and generous cut-out make it ideal for efforts requiring forward positioning.
3. Fizik Vento Argo R1 Adaptive
Best 3D Printed Saddle
- Price: £249.99 / €299.00 / $299.99
- Widths: 140mm and 150mm
- Weight: 190g and 196g
- Pros: Excellent cushioning, stylish, good non-cut-out option
- Cons: Oval rails may not fit all seatposts, pricey
This saddle features zonal cushioning and carbon rails, offering substantial support without a traditional cut-out. The soft cushioning in key areas reduces pressure, making it a comfortable choice for various riding positions.
4. Specialized Power Pro Elaston with Mimic
Best Saddle with Memory Foam
- Price: £200.00 / €270.00 / $275.00
- Widths: 143mm and 155mm
- Weight: 243g and 245g
- Pros: Extremely comfortable, designed for women, Mimic foam is highly effective
- Cons: Expensive
Featuring Mimic memory foam, this saddle is specifically designed for women, providing extra cushioning where it’s needed most. It’s well-regarded by bike fitters and many female cyclists for its comfort and support.
5. Fizik Tempo Argo R5
Best Value Saddle
- Price: £99.99 / €109.00 / $109.99
- Widths: 150mm and 160mm
- Weight: 241g and 247g
- Pros: Excellent comfort, great value, high quality
- Cons: Not the lightest
Designed for endurance riding, this saddle features a carbon-reinforced nylon shell and alloy rails. Its wider cut-out improves numbness and pain in the soft tissue region, making it a fantastic value for its comfort and quality.
6. Fizik Luce Carbon
Best Long Nose Saddle
- Price: £164.99 / €179.00 / $199.99
- Widths: 145mm and 155mm
- Weight: 195g and 199g
- Pros: Lightweight, supportive, good long nose option
- Cons: Oval rails may not fit all seatposts
This classic long-nosed saddle offers two width options and features a small cut-out for pressure relief. Its carbon rails and reinforced nylon shell provide flexibility and comfort for long rides.
7. Selle SMP Well M1
Best Saddle for Padding
- Price: £115 / €120 / $150
- Width: 163mm
- Weight: 315g
- Pros: Thick padding, versatile for various bikes
- Cons: Limited width range
With generous gel padding and a middle cut-out, this saddle offers substantial comfort without adding excessive bulk. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a padded saddle for long rides.
8. Selle SMP Dynamic
Best Narrow Saddle
- Price: £205.00 / €210 / $270.00
- Width: 138mm
- Weight: 290g
- Pros: Available in various colors, generous cut-out, comfortable
- Cons: Expensive
Ideal for women with narrower sit bones, this saddle features a cut-out that runs along the length of the nose, reducing pressure on soft tissues. Despite its higher price, it’s a popular choice for its comfort and support.
How to Choose the Right Saddle
Selecting the right saddle involves understanding your needs and anatomy. Get your sit bones measured and identify any issues with your current saddle. Features like cut-outs can significantly improve comfort if you experience numbness. Testing saddles through trial periods or return policies can help you find the perfect fit.
Conclusion
Advancements in saddle design have made it easier for women to find comfortable and supportive options. By understanding your anatomy and testing various models, you can say goodbye to numbness and discomfort, making your rides more enjoyable and pain-free.
