Bicycling has driven countless people for decades: this sport improves one’s endurance, is done in the fresh air and can also help to get rid of some excess pounds. However, after some time, the problem arises for many people that the buttocks hurts and the ride is so uncomfortable – this is in many cases on bicycle saddlethat is too hard or not adapted to individual needs. As a result, pressure, numbness or even pain occur. A countermeasure in these cases may be the installation of a gel saddle.

What is a gel saddle and what are the advantages and disadvantages of these products?

The biggest difference between one gel saddle and a conventional bicycle saddle is the eponymous ingredient of gel. Here, a distinction is made between saddles that are made entirely of gel, and models that have only a gel insert. Furthermore, here are

The big advantage of gel saddles lies in the accompanying comfort: The sit bone no longer presses against hard material, but lie on a relatively soft gel. This effectively prevents pain – with a suitable one gel saddle Even long journeys by bike can be covered easily.
In addition, these exist Saddlesmostly made of plastic, which makes them particularly easy-care and robust. In addition, these models do not have to be retracted: unlike leather saddles, which often have to be adapted to the body shape for a few hours, cyclists can now ride comfortably with these saddles.

Due to this very high level of comfort and in particular the reduced pressure on the buttocks area, gel saddles are particularly suitable for the elderly and patients suffering or suffering from diseases in the buttocks area. In addition, racing cyclists, but of course hobby cyclists benefit from these saddles.

However, gel saddles also have the disadvantage that high quality products must be bought at similar high prices, as is the case with a leather saddle. A price advantage is therefore not available – the high-quality gel saddles can also be used easily for several decades. In addition, the gel saddles can be soaked with water, but they are basically less prone to moisture and moisture than a leather model.

Purchase a gel saddle

Who is for one gel saddle should decide, due to the many available products, which model is suitable for the individual needs. Decisive for this is usually the structure of the pelvic muscles and the distance of the bones, whereby a blanket statement about optimal models and manufacturers is not possible.

Ideally, cyclists should seek advice to find a model that matches their needs. Also, the degree of hardness must be considered – because not always is a softer gel saddle also the better. Too soft saddles often lead to pain in the pelvic area.

For consumers, of course, the price also plays a role in the purchase, because the price-performance ratio should of course be designed as optimally as possible. In general, the purchase of a high-quality, slightly more expensive product pays off in most cases, as these models can last for several decades.

Last but not least, the gel saddle must also be chosen with regard to the sex of the cyclist. The pelvic structure and the genital area of ​​men and women are significantly different, which is why lady saddles often have a bulge in the middle – so chafing be avoided.

Basically, the purchase of the matching gel saddle is thus primarily a matter of personal comfort.