Saddle Sores - Sorry maybe TMI

[JaneE]

I've been having the same issues as Seeker and have been back and forth to my LBS several times over the past week searching for saddle-nirvana.

DH and I are in the process of gearing up for some touring/camping this summer and as we've gone on longer rides my current saddle's shortcomings have become painfully obvious. Up to two hours on the bike and all was (fairly) well. More than two hours and the squirming, discomfort and constant shifting around would get discouraging. I'm a little freaked out at the possibility of not being able to find a saddle that's comfortable for long days of touring but our favorite bike-tech has repeatedly assured me that the right saddle for me is out there somwhere. I'm going to hold him to his word.

I did sit on their Bontrager "***-o-meter" in the shop so we started with at least that basic information. So far I've tested (and returned) a Specialized Lithia and a basic Dolce. Right now there's a Jett on my road bike and after about 25 miles on it this morning I'm actually feeling a little hopeful. I'm going to scootch it forward another quarter of an inch and test it again but the "up-front" pain I've been having with the other saddles seems to be relieved to a large degree.

I'm fascinated by the Selle SMP Strike. If this Jett doesn't work out that will be one that I'll definitely want to try!

Guess I don't really have much to offer other than support (it's definitely a process...no short-cuts) and commiseration. When I was younger any old saddle seemed to be just fine. Now (a few decades and a few kids later...) things obviously have slipped and slid a little and need more tender support and consideration.

Hang in there!

Jane