Embarassing Saddle Issues...

[PamNY]

Unfortunately, the LBS here don't seem to have a try and buy thing for saddles

Did you try to negotiate with them? I spoke to the manager at my neighborhood LBS and pointed out that I could get a tryout period from some saddle companies and that competing retailers were very cooperative and used this as a major marketing tool.

I ended up getting what I wanted (and he put it in writing). Turned out I loved the saddle so no need to return it, and they've gotten repeat business and recommendations from me.

Doesn't hurt to ask.

[RolliePollie]

I recently switched saddles because of this very same issue. My old saddle (a Terry Butterfly) suddenly became a torture device.

Now I'm riding a Terry Falcon X...got it brand new on eBay for around $35...and it's great. Much firmer and less padding, a little narrower, and a longer/wider cutout. It took a few rides to get used to the harder less cushy padding, but now it's feeling great.

[alexis_the_tiny]

Did you try to negotiate with them? I spoke to the manager at my neighborhood LBS and pointed out that I could get a tryout period from some saddle companies and that competing retailers were very cooperative and used this as a major marketing tool.

I ended up getting what I wanted (and he put it in writing). Turned out I loved the saddle so no need to return it, and they've gotten repeat business and recommendations from me.

Doesn't hurt to ask.

I'm not quite sure, really. But yes, I could always ask or get someone who's friendly with the LBS to ask.