Bicycle seat covers: what are and how to choose?

Convenience and safety are important conditions for any activity. This also applies to cycling. The stiffness of the seat of this beloved vehicle is often uncomfortable during the ride.

Some cycling enthusiasts solve this problem by purchasing special emollients. It would seem that the choice is logical, but many cyclists with experience speak out against such products. We will figure out what are the pros and cons of such devices, what options are offered by manufacturers, and who this modern invention can actually be useful for.

Today, the sports accessories market offers a wide range of seat covers for bicycles. You can buy a regular case that will protect the specified part of the structure from moisture and wear. Water-repellent materials (polyester, nylon and others) are usually used to create such models. Covers are easy to put on and take off, washable.

And also many manufacturers offer products that incorporate a layer of special soft filler. Some of them are performed taking into account the anatomical features of a person. Others are able to adapt to the user, "remembering" the optimal shape. This type of pad also extends the life of the seat. Products reduce the wear of the part, protect it from various mechanical damage and deformation.

However, the main task of such models is (according to the manufacturers) reduced load on the sciatic bones during the ride. It is generally accepted that the filler makes the landing softer, increases the comfort of the cyclist, has a beneficial effect on his well-being, allowing you to make even long trips without pain.

However, not everything is as good as it seems at first glance.

• If there is a "pillow" on the seat certain parts of the cyclist’s body will be buried in a soft layer. In this case, the load on the vessels will increase (due to the pressure of the person’s weight on the soft tissues). This, in turn, can lead to a temporary sensation of numbness in the legs and pelvis. Not only does this feeling bring discomfort when traveling, for health it is also not too good. Especially when it comes to long trips.
• Softening the bicycle seat with an extra cover may lead to increased sweating in certain places. This can lead to skin irritation. It can also rub the fabric used to create the patch.
• If the product has a gel filler, It can move while moving. In fairness, it is worth saying that only fans of fast driving will notice this moment. With a leisurely bike ride it will be almost imperceptible.

Thus, we can conclude that the soft lining is doubtful for people who are fond of long intensive activities on a bicycle. If a person rarely uses this vehicle, travels slowly and for short distances, such a purchase may be appropriate.

There are several types of overlays on a bicycle saddle, depending on the material of manufacture of the cover.

• From fabric. The upper part of the product can be made of high-quality soft, but dense fabric. Such pads usually do not slip, but over time, they can accumulate pollution, which does not always work out.
• From genuine leather. Such products look expensive and solid. They are easily cleaned with a damp cloth and retain their original presentable appearance for a long time. In addition, such material is considered more suitable for contact with the human body. On cool days, it remains warm, on hot, on the contrary, it does not get too hot.
• Faux leather. Such products may look no worse than the options from the previous group, but their cost is much lower. There are also disadvantages - most of these materials slip. This creates some discomfort while riding. In addition, artificial leather loses its appearance much faster than genuine.

The seals that make up the basis of the soft case also differ. As a rule, manufacturers use foam rubber or a special gel as a lining.

Foam products easily slip under the weight of a cyclist. However, just as quickly they return to their original form. Due to the fact that the foam does not deform, the lining of it is well suited for obese people (about 90 kg). And also this option is optimal for lovers of long bike rides.

Gel pads are very popular today. Such products easily take the form of a body. Due to this, a person feels as comfortable as possible. However, this effect does not last too long. The fact is that the gel loses its shape in a short period of time. It is compressed, which negates the convenience of using the lining.

Another modern option is an orthopedic pillow designed specifically for bicycles. In the manufacture of the upper part of such products, durable non-slip material is used. Due to this, the feeling of instability during movement is reduced.The inside of the pillow is of the highest quality silicone. The special technology used by the manufacturer provides the ability of the lining to adapt to the anatomical features of the human body and remain in this position.

Models with a fabric top can be made in various colors, which allows you to choose a product for every taste. Men usually like laconic black or blue options. A woman can choose a pink or red case. On sale there are original striped products with floral prints. The surface adjacent to the saddle is usually covered with silicone dots to prevent slipping.

In terms of size, the most commonly used pads are suitable for any adult or teen bike. Exact parameters are indicated in the product description. Cases for children's models are rare.

Opinions about soft pads vary among experienced cyclists. Some claim that gel seat cushion really softens the seat and makes riding on two-wheeled vehicles more pleasant and comfortable. Others oppose such accessories. They share negative impressions about products that rub their skin on long trips.

Some say that covers prevent acceleration to high speed, as they increase rocking. And also many are afraid to harm their health using soft pillows on an ongoing basis.

Thus, professionals recommend to buy lining for a bicycle saddle only for lovers of a rare and leisurely walking ride.

And also it is worth paying attention to the choice of seat. It is believed that only hard models are suitable for fast driving over long distances. However, today there are special gel saddles. You should not confuse them with overlays, since such models cannot be called soft. Their design is thought out in such a way that the landing is more comfortable.

In this case, the slot located in the center of the product, and some other features can reduce the pressure on soft tissues during the ride. That is why some gel seat models are suitable for long races. However, it is worth noting that the cost of such products is quite high.

See below for an overview of the bicycle seat cover.