I have had the same problem when I first got back on my bike. My butt ached and I had saddle sores in places that you'd rather not have saddle sores. That being said, I went back to my LBS and addressed the issue. I had already been wearing padded shorts but I needed something more because I was in pain. We measured my sit bones and changed my saddle. The new saddle had much more padding than the original, but I am not sure that was actually a good thing. I had been told that sometimes more padding is not always best. I do believe that now. Once I started spending more time on my bike and increasing the length of my rides, my booty kind of adjusted. To me it was like a conditioning process. Kind of like toughening up the hide!! I am almost ready to go back to a thinner saddle; for other reasons. With that being said, you have to do what is best for you and your booty! As for shorts, I have only owned Pearl Izumi's Quest and I love them! And also, I have lost weight since I have been on the bike and I think that may have also helped as well.

@ Marni's recs on shorts- nice compiled list of options, well worth checking out. That's speaking for myself. Thanks again for the advice Marni if you happen to read this. (She has given me good advice on another issue...she's awesome)

I hope you find what works for you. Booty pain is MISERABLE!! And with this heat, it makes it that much worse. Sounds like you are in Texas so I can relate. I am in Mississippi and it's been pretty dang toasty!! Riding is so much fun for me, and hopefully for you as well. I'd hate to see you sidelined. Happy riding and stay safe!! I may need to run out to Texas next spring and ride with you guys!!!!