Which saddle suits endurance MTB riding?

[SwissVan]

I'm also in the market for a new saddle.  I currently have the Selle Italia Trans am gel but find that on the longer rides 5 hrs + I seem to chafe alot even with anti chafe cream.  I'm not sure but I think that maybe the saddle has to much cushion in it.  The problem I face is how do I know what saddle is best for me and my a$$. 

I'm not aware of any bike shops that have demo models that you can tryout for a week or so and then if you like it buy it.  How did everybody else go about getting the correct saddle?

Thanks
Paul 

 

Some (me included) are not destined to find a comfortable saddle, there are some that are better than others but never comfortable for long periods of time.

 

I found that varying your position while riding and from early in the ride (not once you start feeling it ... or not feeling it...) helps.

 

BUT I have found a local shop that does custom saddle fitting, i.e they will make a computer analysis of your butt and saddle while they interface and then recommend what saddle suits you best.

 

SEE THESE LINKS (Sorry only in German)

Links courtesy of www.veloplus.ch

 

http://www.veloplus.ch/pdf/fachinformation/sattelentstehung20071091293.pdf

 

http://www.veloplus.ch/pdf/fachinformation/sitzkomfort2007109115158.pdf

 

They will also build up a saddle to suit your "needs"

 

http://www.veloplus.ch/pdf/fachinformation/individueller_sattel200669164024.pdf

 

 

 

[Paul Hunter]

A comfortable saddle is important but I'm more interested in finding a saddle on which I don't chafe or get saddle sores.  I'm currently looking at the Gobi or one of the Sella Italia SLR saddles.

[SwissVan]

 

Seems like you have to keep trying untill you fiund one that suits you best, and then buy lots of them when you find it.

 

I have tried the Gobi and a SLR (2003), found the SLR to be more comfortable. First impression of the Gobi was was not nice, but it did seem to improve over time.

Currently using a Specialized mtb Pro..something..., like the Specialized models cause you can choose different widths.

 

But will definetly be making a visit to veloplus for a professional saddle fitment in the near future.

 

[Velouria]

Well - the WTB seems to be a bit gentler on the bum than the Gobi after 24hrs. Maybe I just didn't race hard enough, but my bum feels in better shape than it did on the Gobi...