I started riding by borrowing a friend's hybrid for a month. The saddle was ok, but then again I didnt ride more than about 10 miles on any day.
Then I got my own bike, and my first Brooks unpadded leather saddle made my sitbones REALLY sore for a week. It was hurting just to walk. But my husband said that soreness would go away, and I trusted him.
It did go away after a few more (painful) rides....and ever since, both my Brooks saddles have been nothing but pure comfortable BLISS....for thousands of miles. Luv 'em.