How to Choose a Bike Seat for Women

A lot of attention has been paid to the delicate relationship between a man and his bicycle seat. However, little has been said about what makes a good bicycle seat for a woman. Although women differ anatomically from men, they still have a structure that is sensitive to cycling, especially for long periods or over rough surfaces. As such, some care should be taken when choosing a bike seat for a woman, as the choice can make the difference between going the distance or just going home.

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider the female anatomy. For women, the area most affected by pressure when cycling is the vulvar tissue, or the fleshy area between the two ischial tuberosities or "sit bones". Choose a bike seat that is specifically made to support this area. A saddle that supports the sit bones will take pressure off of the vulvar tissue and make for a much more comfortable ride. Often, seats that have a cutout groove running down the center will be more comfortable in this area.

    • 2

      Don't be afraid to ask. A good bike shop salesperson should be knowledgeable about women's bike seats and how they differ from men's. Don't be afraid to ask about how a particular model is built to support the female anatomy and what makes it different from other models.

    • 3

      Try it before you buy it. Since every woman's body is different, you should take the bike out for a test run—as long a ride as the bike shop will allow—to see how it fits your individual body. If you experience any discomfort, then you know that is not the seat for you. You may have to try many models, but eventually you will find a good fit. If the bike shop won't let you try it out, sit on it for a while. You should be able to get a pretty good idea of how comfortable it will be.

    • 4

      Pay a little more. It's often true that you get what you pay for. Spend as much as you have to to get a well-fitting bike seat. The more expensive models tend to be designed better and have more research and development dollars spent on making a better seat.

    • 5

      Think about your riding style. If you can't seem to find the right bike seat fit, you may need to alter your riding style. Sometimes changing your body positioning slightly can make a big difference in comfort. Consult a knowledgeable bicycle salesperson or cyclist about your body positioning. They may be able to suggest ways to sit more comfortably in the saddle.