How to Choose the Right Bike Seat Cushion to Avoid Saddle Sores
Biking isn’t just eco-friendly, but it’s also a fun and enjoyable activity that gets to double as an exercise routine, too! As great as it can be, there’s one thing that hampers regular riders from enjoying a daily cruise: saddle sores.
Saddle sores are a common problem for cyclists. It is mainly caused by the forward movement that happens when cyclists pedal their bicycle, which then produces an abnormal pressure on the buttocks. This causes extreme discomfort and can ultimately give you painful saddle sores!
The good news is that there are numerous bike seat cushions available today that have ergonomic designs which address this problem. Choosing the right saddle will help you relieve discomfort in your groin and buttocks area, which then helps avoid the occurrence of sores.
If you’re unsure how to approach finding one, here are three factors to consider when choosing the right bicycle seat for you.
- Saddle Shape
When choosing a bike seat cushion, comfort should be the number one consideration.
Your comfort depends on the shape of your cushion, so choose one that fits your saddle perfectly. Excessively narrow saddles won’t support your body weight properly, whereas one that’s too big can make it difficult to balance or even sit on.
It is important to note that saddles for men and women may differ in shape. Women have relatively wider sit bones than men, so ensure that you’re choosing a cushion that’s perfect for the individual user!
- Cushion Material and Style
Most bike seat cushions consist of gel, Lycra, sponge, and other composite materials, all of which give excellent support to the groin and buttocks. The added padding on your seat can provide a measure of shock resistance, giving you a measure of comfort when riding particularly rough or steep roads. Aside from that, a good bike seat should also have a breathing hole to allow air to go through your hip, keeping it dryer, especially during long rides.
Ensure that your chosen cushion has adjustable straps that will fit on your particular bike’s seat! This way, you’re assured that it won’t slip off as you’re on it, avoiding you a possible accident from a completely avoidable situation!
- Cushion Texture
Checking the texture of your bike seat cushion is also essential! Because of the constant movement when paddling, it can create tension on the groin and hip—which can be eased with a decently textured cushion.
It is crucial to choose cushions with an anti-slip interior texture. It will stay snug and tight on the saddle eliminating the probability of sliding and causing chafing or skin irritation. With textured surfaces, a rider’s body stays in place!
Bonus Tip: Use the Correct Apparel
Besides getting a good bicycle seat, you can also avoid saddle sores using apparel specifically designed for biking. One such piece of gear is a pair of padded bicycle shorts, which should provide another layer of protection that can help you avoid saddle sores and chafing.
Conclusion
The benefits of biking are twofold. Aside from being a good form of exercise, you can also use it to commute to work, greatly reducing your carbon footprint and making the air a bit cleaner for everybody else. To get the most of your biking experience and avoid unnecessary injury, always use the correct bicycle seat and apparel for you!
Are you looking for a sturdy and comfortable bike seat cushion in the UK? At Cushbike, we have the premium comfort bike seat that you need to make your daily riding a breeze! We offer fast deliveries in the UK with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Contact us today to learn more about our product!