OutdoorGearLab

SQlab takes a very scientific approach to the design of their saddles and the 611 Ergowave Active features the most thoughtful ergonomic design we've ever seen. It provides a high degree of comfort that starts with a proper fit, and SQlab will even send you a fit kit to measure your sit bones, so you get the correct width. To accommodate most riders, it comes in 4 sizes. The saddle has a unique stepped tip-to-tail profile with a high tail that positions the rider right in the sweet spot for proper weight distribution on the sit bones. It also has a generous channel in the center for relief on the perineal area and an extra-wide and flat nose that feels great when you need to get your weight forward on steep climbs. It has a stiff shell and minimal padding, plus it features their Active technology that allows for a small degree of side to side rocking of the tail that is intended to match the body's biomechanics when pedaling. It also seems highly durable with the Ti-Alloy rails molded into the bottom of the shell, and a kevlar reinforced tail to protect it during crashes.
The 611 Ergowave Active tips the scales at 252g with an included elastomer and 226g without, so it isn't especially lightweight compared to some of the models in this test. It's also one of the most expensive models we've tested, though this saddle may be worth its weight in gold if it can effectively solve saddle-related pain or discomfort for some riders. We were very impressed with the design, comfort, and performance of this saddle. 
Read more: SQlab 611 Ergowave Active S-Tube review

Best for Most

amazon.com

powerreviews

The Selle SMP Pro is one of the boldest and most uniquely designed saddles in our bunch and earns high accolades for its distinctive full-length cutout. Riders typically suffering from soft tissue pain or numbness will certainly appreciate one of the most aggressive cutout designs on the market, with a firm elastomer foam padding and a carbon-reinforced nylon shell that support the sit bones. The design took a bit of adjustment and tinkering before getting used to it, but after getting it dialed in with a few rides, it was hard to go back to a standard design. This seat also features a downturned nose that mitigates the risk of surprise bottom-bashing and serves as a nice platform for adjusting your riding position or sliding fore or aft with changing terrain.  
While this model provides tremendous anatomic relief, it may not be for everyone. The revolutionary cutout design means that the bulk of your weight is supported over a smaller surface area, potentially leading to uncomfortable pressure points, especially if your anatomy doesn't perfectly align with the saddle's size and shape. Our testers also found it challenging to correctly adjust and position it for a comfortable riding position with its heavily sloped fore to aft profile. Once we did, we appreciated the versatility to comfortably move around to a variety of seated positions. This also isn't the lightest saddle in our lineup with its high-end materials. However, it still manages to weigh in at a respectable 344 grams and is certainly worth checking out for riders looking for the ultimate in pressure relief. 
Read more: Selle SMP Pro review

Upgrade Pick

walmart

bazaarvoice

The Spank Oozy 220 is a reasonably priced mountain bike saddle that impressed us most with its comfort. It comes in 144mm width, which worked well for our testers and should suit a wide range of sit bone widths. It has a shallow pressure relief channel that provides relief to the perineal area and a relatively flat side-to-side profile. It has a generally classic shape, though with an extra-wide nose that feels great when you get your weight forward on steeper climbs. The wings of the saddle have pressure zone contours that do a wonderful job of cradling the sit bones, and a little rise in the tail gives added support and helps to keep you in the sweet spot. The medium-density padding feels just right and stays comfortable on any length of ride. Additionally, the low-friction synthetic cover material combines with the snag-free shape to allow for unobstructed freedom of movement. 
Our biggest concern with the Oozy 220 saddle is its weight. It's among the heavier models we've tested, tipping the scales at 280 grams — about 80 grams heavier than the lightest competitors. It's also only available in one width, and while we found it to be supremely comfortable, it might not be ideal for everyone. Beyond that, we found little not to like about this reasonably priced saddle.
Read more: Spank Oozy 220 review

Budget Pick

shopify

Consumer Reports

In testing, we found that the Giddy Up! Bike Seat is very comfortable, and it's befitting for both recreational riding and your daily urban commuting needs. The comfort comes from its thick layer of soft memory foam cushioning, a well-rounded shape that works well for various body types, and two rubber shock absorbers. We felt comfortable and relaxed on this seat throughout the testing process. The seat's profile strikes a balance between the wider, cruiser-style seats and the narrow performance models, making it suitable for various bikes and fit styles. The body has a practical, integrated tail light—conveniently powered by replaceable batteries—making riding in low-light or high-traffic situations an all-around safer experience. The light has three different modes that are controlled by a small switch under the back of the seat. While testing, we were pleased with the ability to turn on the light or adjust the setting easily while riding. This seat can either be mounted to a traditional double-rail clamp or directly to a compatible seat post using an included adapter. It comes with all the tools you need for installation — a small wrench and an Allen key.
Despite how many things we found to like about this model, its potential durability was a concern for us. The underside of the nose and tail feature a mostly plastic construction that could possibly split if you were to wreck or accidentally tip the bike over. Additionally, we have some concerns that the tail light's LED might not hold up forever; its fully plastic construction feels somewhat flimsy, especially around the replaceable battery casing. Despite those worries, we did not note any durability issues within the timeframe of the testing process. The only other problem we encountered with this seat was the slightly wide profile of the nose. However, we managed to mitigate this issue by adjusting the seat's angle. Despite these small concerns, we think this model makes a great option for anyone seeking a more comfortable commute or recreational bike ride. 

expert-review

Best Bike Seats

The Bontrager Sport rides away with the most affordable comfort in our lineup. This saddle brought smiles on every ride on road bikes to beach cruisers. The steel rails and thick foam definitely keep this out of contention for those looking for a light fast saddle. Still, this saddle is very versatile, supporting multiple riding positions and easy comfort when moving around with ample surface area. Though not the most aggressive, the Sport is a capable road saddle, perfect for riders new to road cycling or anyone looking to upgrade from that uncomfortable stock saddle. 
At 163 millimeters wide, this saddle is wider than most and is noticeable in full extension when pedaling hard, but this can fit most anatomies. We enjoyed that it was interchangeable across our quiver of bikes, as at home on a road bike as a cross-country mountain bike ride. For the price, this saddle is a bargain no matter how long you ride or what your style. The microfiber cover proved water-resistant in adverse conditions of snow and rain. The durable materials held up to abuse in all conditions we could throw at it. If you're looking for a comfy, versatile saddle for the price of a steak dinner, then this will sate your appetite.
Read more: Bontrager Sport review

Bikeroo's Oversized Comfort Bike Seat is a great choice for recreational cycling on a cruiser or hybrid bike. This durable model was one of the most comfortable seats we tested for short to mid-length rides. The profile features a wide tail with thick, soft cushioning and a narrow nose that allows space for a comfortable pedaling motion. The wide, short body is well suited to bikes with an upright riding position, and the thick foam padding combines with the stainless steel shock-absorbing spring to soak up bumps and chatter. Bikeroo includes an adapter that allows this seat to be mounted either directly to the seat post if it is compatible or with a standard double rail clamp. Installation was quick, and within a few minutes, we had our preferred seat angle all set and ready to go. There are convenient accessories included, such as a standard rain cover and a small, basic tool kit for installation. 
One drawback you might want to consider is that with its extra-wide body and stainless steel shock absorbers, this seat is the heaviest and least efficient model we tested. It tips the scales at a whopping 1211 grams &#40;2.7 pounds&#41;, and the thick foam cushioning reduces the efficiency of your pedaling power supply. This isn't the model we would recommend to those riders who want to improve their bike's weight or riding efficiency, or more aggressive riders or racers. For shorter rides on a cruiser or hybrid bike where weight isn't a big concern, however, we think this model's comfort compensates for the extra weight. If you're looking to cruise in comfort and aren't in a race to the finish line, this seat is definitely worth a second look. 

The WTB Volt Chromoly has been a staple in WTB's saddle range for many years. It isn't the least expensive model we tested, but this reasonably priced competitor is an incredible value considering the level of comfort and performance it delivers. Not only is the Volt Chromoly a good value, but it's also very comfortable, with a classic design that has stood the test of time. A slightly cradled shape that rises gently toward the tail provides a comfortable and supportive platform, with medium density padding and shallow anatomical groove and "Comfort Zone" cutout in the shell to reduce pressure in the center. At 239g for the 135mm width we tested, the Volt Race is also lightweight considering the price. Testers found this saddle to offer exceptional versatility, with applications ranging from all disciplines of mountain biking to road riding. 
The Volt is offered in three sizes, 135mm &#40;tested&#41;, 142mm, and 150mm, to accommodate a range of sit bone widths. We were very impressed with the price to comfort and performance ratio the Volt Chromoly has to offer, and we think you'd be hard-pressed to find a better value in a mountain bike saddle.
Read more: WTB Volt Chromoly review

The WTB Koda Titanium was initially designed with the female rider in mind, but our testers found this comfortable saddle to be well-suited for male riders as well. This saddle impressed us most with its unbeatable comfort. WTB has employed their classic slightly cradled saddle shape on the Koda Team, a design that keeps the rider in the sweet spot and provides a little support as it rises gently towards the tail. An anatomical channel on the top of the saddle and a "Comfort Zone" cutout in the shell help to reduce pressure on the perineal area. This saddle has softer padding than our other top-performing saddles, which could reduce pedaling efficiency slightly, although we were too comfortable to notice. The Koda Titanium also impressed us with its weight, at 203g, it's one of the lightest saddles in our test selection. 
If we had to find fault with the Koda, it's that it is only available in medium to wider widths, 142mm &#40;tested&#41; and 150mm. Riders with narrow sit bones or who prefer a narrower saddle will probably want to look elsewhere, as will riders who prefer a stiffer and less cushy platform. For everyone else, we think the Koda Titanium is the most comfortable saddle out there and worthy of a look regardless of your gender.
Read more: WTB Koda Titanium review

pinkbike.com

The Prologo Dimension provides excellent value with its comfortable and unique short-nose design and one of the most reasonable prices for an ultralight performance saddle. With just the right amount of padding in just the right places, a generous anatomic relief cutout, and a unique shape that encourages an aggressive riding position, this saddle makes a great option for road racers or fast riders. It is one of the lightest saddles we've ever tested, with a simple design and high-quality construction. 
This saddle is a lightweight racing machine, and so it may not be as versatile across other riding disciplines. Its performance-oriented shape is not as comfortable in more upright or casual riding positions, and its stiff shell material and thin, dense padding are not as forgiving on offroad pursuits. But for aggressive riders looking for an ultralight option without breaking the bank, the Prologo Dimension is hard to beat.
Read more: Prologo Dimension review

It turns out that the Bikeroo Most Comfortable Bike Seat for Women doesn't have a dramatically different shape than their non-gender-specific seat offerings. Still, Bikeroo claims that this seat was designed specifically with the female anatomy in mind. We found that female riders did indeed find it slightly more comfortable during testing than some of the other gender-neutral seats, so we are recommending it as-marketed. The seat has a wide tail intended to suit female sit bones and a narrow nose that allows for a free pedaling motion when riding in an upright position. Like Bikeroo's other offerings, the seat has dual shock absorbers in the rear to iron out road chatter and a generous layer of soft foam padding for comfort. Additionally, the seat comes with the convenience of Bikeroo's standard tool kit for installation and adjustment, as well as a cover to keep out the dust or rain. 
You can probably already guess that we are a little unsure about the gender-specific design. Our female testers found the seat comfortable, but our male testers also liked it, which made us think that this is just a comfortable all-around seat. Despite their gender, none of our testers experienced any discomfort when using this seat as designed. However, we found that Bikeroo's claims aren't entirely accurate regarding the seat working great for the upright to forward bending riding positions. We feel that the seat remains comfortable in a forward-leaning position, but you rapidly lose pedaling efficiency as your position becomes more aggressive. Therefore, we would propose this seat mainly for upright to neutral body positions while riding. 

Bike Seat Comparison