How the Right Bike Seat Relieves Pain and Improves Your Ride
Although cycling is incredibly popular, most people don't know how to choose a comfortable bike seat. With the wrong seat, riding can quickly cause pain and discomfort in all the wrong areas. It's a shame because there are so many benefits of having a comfortable bike seat. You can improve the quality of your rides and relieve your pain if you choose the right bike seat, but you have to know why it matters, and where to look. Follow our simple tips to get started on finding the right seat for your needs.
Most people overlook the fact that while there are some universal factors to consider when it comes to bike seats, such as sizing and firmness, comfort is largely based on personal preference. Yes, you can eliminate a lot of the guesswork from choosing a comfortable seat, but in the end, you have to know what it is you like in a seat. To do so, it's helpful to be clear on the type of riding you do. If you're a casual, recreational cyclist, then you will have a different set of requirements than someone who is engaging in rigorous mountain biking or using their bike to commute to and from work. Know your practical considerations before you decide on any one seat. What works for one person may not work for another.
Less than 3.4 million adults frequently ride bicycles in the United States of America. This figure totals one-eighth of all adult cyclists. Unfortunate as it is, many of these cyclists have not chosen to ride with a bike seat that offers them the comfort they need to maintain a routine cycling habit. Of course, a lot of this is due to stubbornness or laziness, but a lot of it comes down to a lack of education, too. Most people just simply aren't aware of the anatomy behind bike riding, and how it can either contribute to or detract from a comfortable ride. By informing yourself on the different types of road bike saddles and vintage bike seats, you are much more likely to find a seat that provides you with comfortable bike rides for years to come.
Whether it's a new touring saddle, or a vintage bike seat, the type of padding you choose will have a huge impact on your overall comfort. Most seats handle cushioning with one of a few popular options. Gel cushions are typically the go-to choice for the occasional, casual rider. However, these can become problematic on longer rides. Foam cushioning is another popular choice, often preferred by those who partake in moderately longer bike rides than the beginner. As a rider you also have the option to go without padding, which is found on many vintage bike seats, or you can choose a saddle pad that acts as an addition to your existing seat. Each cushioning type offers its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's fruitful to consult with a professional to determine the type of cushion that best suits your needs.
Your body type and weight also play important roles in relieving pain as you ride. You should also consider your gender. For example, men have a certain set of tendons and muscles that can quickly become uncomfortable if they do not choose a seat that offers a balance of support and cushion. If you weigh more than the average person, then this can also have a dramatic impact on your comfort as you ride. It may take some time to find the best option. This is also why it's a good idea to work alongside the assistance of a professional who can provide with flexible options. While a gel cushioned carbon fiber bike seat may be the best choice for one rider, a simple vintage bike seat may be the best choice for another rider.
As you ride and learn, you will find it easier to determine your own personal preferences when it comes to choosing a seat. If you're looking for a bike seat, but you're not sure who to trust, then contact us today!
