Saddle Sores

[Tess851]

hi.

I've found a couple of things can led to potential saddle sores, other than keeping shorts etc hygenic. Body position on the bike - if my hips are out and I'm sitting a little lopsided then that will irritate a particular point, and it becomes more noticable if I do strength endurance work (l-o-n-g slow climbs staying in the seat).

Different chamois designs also seem to affect slightly different areas or sides of my sit bone areas.

My solutions are: wash cycle clothing with an antibacterial rinse; get regular adjustments eg chiropractic, osteopath, remedial massage etc; if an area is getting irritated, apply an antibacterial solution regularly, and try not to wear clothing (underwear included) that irritates the area. If all else fails, a few days off the bike can help.

It's interesting to note that I've never found any difference with seats. I would recommend getting yourself set up properly on the bike, regardless of saddle sores or not, and irrespective of how much or what sort of riding you do. It's really important to have the right fit and make sure your body is working well on the bike.

What I dislike more than saddle sores, are seams in cycle shorts. I've tried a number of brands, but have yet to find one that doesn't have a seam in a very non-friendly place! Any suggestions?

[poison tumac]

I just recently got Craft's high end short, and it has no seams and felt great for me after 5 hours in the saddle. The inseam is longer so the shorts don't ride up on you. The only downside is a lower tanline, which I wil gladly trade for comfort. Assos makes a womans short that is pretty comfy, but don't bother with the Castelli YPros, they're way too expensive for the quality. The chamois is too thin for long rides and they have nasty seams. I ordered the Descente bib shorts today so I'll see how those work out. I tend to like the bibshorts more for longer rides, even though they make bathroom stops take a bit longer. So far my favorite has been the Craft.

[neuroticcyclist]

The tips on cleaning and chamois varieties and chamois butter (or simply vaseline!!) work. Add me to the list of the seat not making the difference. For me, same seat is good or truly evil depending on position. If I am not on my fitted bike (yes, I am spoiled) and take my seat and pedals for a rental on a trip, it can be the greatest bike in the world but if the seat position is off, PRESTO the sores reappear. Get a proper fitting and it may we start clearning up!