For mountain bikers, the saddle is a critical point of contact, influencing comfort, pedaling efficiency, and overall riding enjoyment. Riding with the wrong saddle can lead to discomfort, numbness, and even pain, cutting short your rides and hindering your performance. Investing in one of the Best Mtb Bike Saddles is crucial for tackling challenging trails, enduring long rides, and maximizing your time on the mountain. This guide dives into top-performing mountain bike saddles, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the perfect match for your riding style and preferences.
WTB Volt Chromoly
WTB Volt Chromoly MTB Saddle
OVERALL SCORE: 84
- Comfort: 8.0
- Performance: 9.0
- Durability: 9.0
- Weight: 7.4
- Versatility: 9.0
Weight: 239g | Rails: Chromoly
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally Comfortable for Various Riders
- Excellent Value and Affordable Price Point
- Classic and Time-Tested Design
- Respectably Lightweight
Reasons to Avoid:
- No Significant Drawbacks
The WTB Volt Chromoly has earned its place as a long-standing favorite within WTB’s saddle lineup, and for good reason. It delivers an impressive combination of comfort and performance at a price that’s hard to beat. This saddle isn’t just about affordability; it’s genuinely comfortable, boasting a classic design that has consistently proven its effectiveness over the years. The Volt Chromoly features a subtly cradled shape that gently rises towards the rear, creating a supportive and comfortable platform. It incorporates medium-density padding, a shallow anatomical groove, and WTB’s “Comfort Zone” cutout in the shell, all working in harmony to alleviate pressure in the perineal area. At a measured weight of 239g for the 135mm width, the Volt Race also manages to be reasonably lightweight, especially considering its accessible price. Our testers consistently praised its versatility, finding it suitable for everything from cross-country trails to aggressive enduro riding and even road cycling.
The Volt is available in three widths – 135mm (tested), 142mm, and 150mm – ensuring a good fit for a wide spectrum of sit bone widths. We were particularly impressed by the level of comfort and performance achieved at this price point, making it a standout value proposition in the mountain bike saddle market. If you’re seeking similar performance but in a lighter package, the WTB Koda Titanium offers a weight reduction.
Read more: WTB Volt Chromoly review
The universally appreciated profile and shape of the WTB Volt Chromoly mountain bike saddle makes it a top choice for diverse riding styles.
Spank Oozy 220
Spank Oozy 220 MTB Saddle
OVERALL SCORE: 77
- Comfort: 9.0
- Performance: 8.0
- Durability: 8.0
- Weight: 5.7
- Versatility: 7.0
Weight: 280g | Rails: Hollow Chromoly
Reasons to Buy:
- Affordable Price
- Exceptional Comfort for Long Rides
- Stylish Design
Reasons to Avoid:
- Heavier Compared to Some Competitors
- Available in a Single Width Only
The Spank Oozy 220 stands out as a reasonably priced mountain bike saddle that primarily impressed us with its superior comfort. It comes in a 144mm width, which proved to be a good fit for our testers and should accommodate a broad range of sit bone widths. The Oozy 220 features a shallow pressure relief channel to reduce pressure on the perineal area and a relatively flat side-to-side profile. While maintaining a classic saddle shape, it incorporates an extra-wide nose that enhances comfort when leaning forward on steep climbs. The saddle’s wings are designed with pressure zone contours that effectively cradle the sit bones, and a slight rise in the tail provides additional support and helps maintain an optimal riding position. The medium-density padding strikes a great balance, offering comfort for rides of any duration. Furthermore, the low-friction synthetic cover, combined with the snag-free shape, promotes unrestricted movement on the bike.
The primary drawback of the Oozy 220 is its weight. At 280 grams, it’s among the heavier saddles we tested, weighing approximately 80 grams more than some of the lightest options. It’s also offered in only one width, which, while comfortable for our testers, may not suit every rider. The Tioga Spyder Outland is a significantly lighter alternative at 202 grams but is also only available in a single width. Weight and width limitations aside, the Oozy 220 offers remarkable comfort at a reasonable price.
Read more: Spank Oozy 220 review
The Spank Oozy 220 mountain bike saddle excels in providing comfort for various mountain biking disciplines, and its comfort extends to gravel biking as well.
WTB Koda Titanium
WTB Koda Titanium MTB Saddle
OVERALL SCORE: 84
- Comfort: 9.0
- Performance: 8.0
- Durability: 7.5
- Weight: 9.0
- Versatility: 8.0
Weight: 203g | Rails: Titanium
Reasons to Buy:
- Lightweight Construction
- Exceptional Comfort for Long Rides
- Short Saddle Length
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited to Wider Width Options
The WTB Koda Titanium was initially designed with female riders in mind, but our testing revealed its comfortable design is equally well-suited for male riders. Comfort is where this saddle truly shines, providing an unmatched level of plushness. WTB has utilized their signature slightly cradled saddle shape on the Koda Team, a design that effectively positions the rider in the sweet spot while offering subtle support as it gently rises towards the tail. An anatomical channel on the saddle’s surface and a “Comfort Zone” cutout in the shell work together to minimize pressure on the perineal area. The Koda Titanium features softer padding compared to other top-performing saddles, which might slightly reduce pedaling efficiency for some riders, but the enhanced comfort was undeniable in our tests. Weighing in at a mere 203g, the Koda Titanium is one of the lightest saddles in our test group.
The main critique of the Koda is its limited width availability. It’s only offered in medium to wider widths: 142mm (tested) and 150mm. Riders with narrower sit bones or those who prefer a narrower saddle profile may need to explore other options. Similarly, riders seeking a firmer, less cushioned platform might also look elsewhere. The lightweight and narrow Tioga Spyder Outland presents a viable alternative for those preferences. However, if ultimate comfort is your primary goal, the Koda Titanium is an outstanding choice, regardless of gender.
Read more: WTB Koda Titanium review
The WTB Koda Titanium mountain bike saddle’s shape is designed for pedaling comfort, complemented by an anatomical groove for pressure relief.
SDG Components Bel-Air V3
OVERALL SCORE: 81
- Comfort: 7.0
- Performance: 9.0
- Durability: 9.5
- Weight: 7.7
- Versatility: 8.0
Weight: 232g | Rails: Lux Alloy
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally Durable, Seamless Construction
- Excellent Power Transfer for Efficient Pedaling
- Surprisingly Comfortable for its Durability Focus
- Stylish Aesthetics
Reasons to Avoid:
- Available in a Single Size Only
The SDG Components Bel-Air V3 is an excellent all-around bike saddle that particularly excels in durability. While durability might not be the first thing on every mountain biker’s mind when choosing a saddle, it becomes important when considering crashes or the rigors of bike transport. The Bel Air V3 features a vacuum-sealed, seamless top with welded edges that proved remarkably resilient throughout our testing, maintaining a near-new appearance even after significant use. Crucially, the Bel Air V3 achieves this durability without compromising comfort, performing well on both cross-country rides and more technical trails. Its nylon glass base provides excellent power transfer with each pedal stroke, and we were particularly impressed with its uphill pedaling performance, where its shape allowed for varied pedaling positions, although some riders might prefer a more locked-in feel.
The main limitation of the SDG Bel Air V3 is its single size option. Comfort remains our top priority, and if the saddle’s shape and dimensions don’t align with your sit bones, it won’t be a comfortable choice. The WTB Volt Chromoly, in contrast, is offered in three sizes and is nearly as durable. However, for testers whose sit bones were compatible with the Bel Air’s size, it was a highly favored saddle. We recommend the Bel Air V3 to riders prioritizing exceptional durability in a saddle, provided the size is a good fit.
Read more: SDG Bel Air V3 review
The SDG Bel Air V3 mountain bike saddle is a top performer across all metrics, with durability as a standout feature.
Tioga Spyder Outland
Tioga Spyder Outland MTB Saddle
OVERALL SCORE: 83
- Comfort: 8.0
- Performance: 8.0
- Durability: 9.0
- Weight: 9.0
- Versatility: 7.0
Weight: 178g (without pads), 202g (with pads) | Rails: Hollow Chromoly
Reasons to Buy:
- Incredibly Lightweight Design
- Innovative and Unique Construction
- Surprisingly High Comfort Level
Reasons to Avoid:
- Available in a Single Size Only
The Tioga Spyder Outland is a visually striking and uniquely designed mountain bike saddle. Its construction focuses on minimizing weight while effectively distributing the rider’s weight across a flexible web of material suspended over a carbonite-like skeleton. This innovative approach results in the lightest saddle in our test, weighing just 202g with the included anti-slip pads and an astonishingly light 178g when used without. Despite its unconventional appearance, the Spyder Outland’s flexible web seat cover surprised our testers with a comfortable, suspended feel, unlike most traditional saddles. On the trail, the saddle performed admirably, with its narrow width and tapered tail promoting excellent freedom of movement.
The Spyder Outland is only offered in a single 125mm width, making it the narrowest saddle in our test. This narrow width won’t be suitable for everyone, but if you have narrow sit bones or prefer a narrower saddle profile, it could be an excellent choice. While its distinctive looks and unorthodox design might initially deter some riders, the Tioga Spyder Outland delivers an impressively lightweight and surprisingly comfortable package, particularly for those seeking a narrower saddle option.
Read more: Tioga Spyder Outland review
The Tioga Spyder Outland mountain bike saddle’s distinctive construction and materials contribute to its lightweight and durable nature.
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Mountain Bike Saddle Testing in California
Testing saddles in the diverse terrain of coastal California.
How We Test Mountain Bike Saddles
Our extensive testing process for mountain bike saddles draws upon decades of combined cycling experience. We started by thoroughly researching the market to identify the best and most popular mountain bike saddles before selecting 11 models for side-by-side comparison. Our evaluation involved an in-depth analysis of each saddle’s shape and construction, durability testing using a drag test, precise weight measurements, and, most importantly, countless hours of mountain biking with each saddle. Every option was ridden on a variety of trails, from short loops to extended backcountry adventures. Saddles were frequently swapped between rides and even mid-ride for direct comparisons. We ensured fair comfort assessments by conducting test rides when our bodies were fully rested. For a more detailed look at our testing methods, please refer to our How We Test Mountain Bike Saddles article.
Our mountain bike saddle evaluations are based on five key rating metrics, each weighted to reflect its importance:
- Comfort (30% of overall score)
- Performance (20% weighting)
- Durability (20% weighting)
- Weight (20% weighting)
- Versatility (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
This mountain bike saddle review is spearheaded by seasoned experts: former Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor Jeremy Benson and Review Editor Zach Lovell. Jeremy Benson’s mountain biking journey began in the early 1990s, and he has called the Lake Tahoe, California region home for the past 19 years. He is also the author of Mountain Bike Tahoe. Zach Lovell has been mountain biking for two decades, residing and riding in renowned mountain biking destinations like Gunnison/Crested Butte, Colorado, and Bellingham, Washington. Collectively, Benson and Lovell dedicate over 22 hours per week to cycling throughout the riding season, whether rigorously testing bike gear or simply enjoying a ride. This extensive time in the saddle provides them with a deep understanding of saddle fit, shape, padding, and performance across various riding styles, allowing them to discern even subtle differences between products.
The robust construction and well-bonded cover of a saddle indicate long-term durability.
Durable Mountain Bike Saddle Construction
Even a heavier mountain bike saddle can offer respectable performance and durability, and lighter versions are often available.
Mountain bikers spend significant time on their saddles, making a comfortable and supportive saddle essential for enjoyable rides.
Analysis and Test Results
Over several months, our testers pushed their limits, rigorously testing the selected saddles across diverse terrains in the Western US, from Lake Tahoe to Crested Butte and the Southwestern Desert. Varying weather conditions, from dry slickrock to rain-soaked alpine trails, provided a comprehensive testing environment.
Our gear-focused testers thoroughly evaluated each saddle, accumulating over one hundred miles on each model, often swapping between saddles during rides for direct comparison. Every aspect of performance was scrutinized to identify strengths and weaknesses, with each model rated across our five key metrics: comfort, performance, versatility, durability, and weight. These ratings were used to determine overall winners and top-performing mountain bike saddles. We also conducted a weighted drag test to objectively assess durability. Continue reading to see how these saddles compare and to find the best one for your needs.
What’s the Best Value?
At OutdoorGearLab, our primary objective is to identify the best and highest-performing products in each test. Finding products that offer exceptional value alongside top performance is always a bonus. In this test, the WTB Volt Chromoly and Spank Oozy 220 stood out as offering the best value-to-performance ratios.
Comfortable Mountain Bike Saddle for Long Rides
Whether for long or short rides, the right mountain bike saddle significantly enhances the overall riding experience.
Comfort
Comfort is paramount for any bike saddle. While individual comfort needs vary based on riding style and performance demands, all cyclists appreciate a saddle that supports their body effectively. Several factors contribute to mountain bike saddle comfort, including width, length, padding, shape, and anatomical cutouts. Comfort is subjective, but we strived to determine the most comfortable saddles and understand why. Proper saddle width is crucial for comfort; ensure you choose the right width for your sit bones. If you’re unsure, professional sit bone measurement at a bike shop is recommended, or you can find DIY methods online.
The WTB Koda Titanium emerged as the most comfortable saddle in our test. Initially designed for women, its comfort proved universally appealing. Its short length, medium width, softer padding, slightly cradled shape, and anatomical relief made it a tester favorite.
Mountain Bike Saddle Comfort Designs
Comfort is subjective, driving diverse saddle designs. The WTB Koda Team (top) and Tioga Spyder (bottom) exemplify different approaches to saddle comfort.
We also discovered that comfort doesn’t always come with a high price tag. The WTB Volt offered excellent comfort at a significantly lower cost than many competitors. Its slightly cradled shape, medium width, and anatomical groove provided a comfortable experience, especially for extended seated pedaling. Similarly, the Spank Oozy 220 impressed with its pressure relief channel, pressure zone contours, wide nose, and supportive tail rise.
WTB Volt Saddle Shape
The teardrop shape of the WTB Volt mountain bike saddle as viewed from above.
Performance
While most saddles perform their basic function similarly, our performance metric assessed factors like shape, padding, and overall comfort in riding scenarios. A comfortable saddle is beneficial as long as it doesn’t hinder pedaling efficiency or freedom of movement during climbs and descents. Some saddle shapes are specifically designed to allow for easy rider movement and prevent snagging on clothing, and performance varies among models.
Minimalist Mountain Bike Saddle Design
The best mountain bike saddle is often the one you notice least while riding.
The WTB Volt, a long-standing model, also excelled in performance. Its classic shape provides seated comfort and allows ample movement with its medium length and width. WTB saddles are known for aging well and often becoming more comfortable over time. The Volt is a reliable saddle that seamlessly integrates into your ride.
WTB Volt Performance and Value
The WTB Volt is a compelling choice due to its combination of performance and affordability.
The SDG Components Bel-Air V3 also impressed us with its performance. Its compact profile and nylon glass base enhance power transfer. The V3’s shape facilitates multiple pedaling positions, optimizing performance on flats and climbs. The Ergon SM Pro, despite its softer feel, also optimizes power transfer and remains unobtrusive on descents.
Saddle Performance Testing on Trails
Testing saddle performance in spring riding conditions.
Versatility
While mountain bike saddles are designed for mountain biking, some models demonstrate greater versatility. Certain saddles are better suited for specific disciplines like enduro or downhill, while others are excellent all-around performers. Testers found several saddles in our selection adaptable enough for various bikes, including road, gravel, trail, and shuttle bikes, scoring higher in versatility due to their overall comfort and performance.
The SQ Lab 60X proved versatile, designed for electric mountain bikes but also performing well on traditional bikes for both trail riding and commuting. Its active rails move with pedaling motion, enhancing comfort regardless of motor assistance.
Versatile Mountain Bike Saddle Design
Versatile mountain bike saddle suitable for various riding styles and bike types.
The SDG Circuit Ti Alloy is a capable mountain bike saddle, but its flatter profile caused slightly more pressure than preferred for some testers, impacting its versatility score. This saddle might be better suited for riders who spend less time seated pedaling, such as those focused on downhill or shuttle riding, or those who prefer a stiffer saddle.
Saddle Width and Profile Comparison
Comparing a wider, shorter saddle (right) with a narrower, longer saddle (left) to illustrate profile differences.
Durability
Mountain bike saddle durability is important, especially considering crashes and bike transport. While most saddles offer reasonable durability under normal conditions, manufacturers incorporate abrasion-resistant materials in vulnerable areas to mitigate damage from crashes. The wings and tail are most prone to impact, and top-rated saddles feature reinforced materials in these areas. Construction methods also affect durability, with techniques like vacuum sealing being more robust than stapling.
The SDG Bel Air V3 earned our top durability rating. Its seamless, vacuum-sealed microfiber top with welded edges proved exceptionally resilient in testing, including a weighted drag test on concrete, showing minimal damage.
Durable and Comfortable MTB Saddle
The Tioga Spyder Outland offers a comfortable and durable design for trail riding.
Both WTB saddles, the Volt Chromoly and Koda Titanium, utilize microfiber seat material with abrasion-resistant reinforcement on the tail. These materials have proven durable in crashes, with testers reporting impressive longevity even after hard use.
Abrasion Resistant Saddle Material
The abrasion-resistant rear section of the WTB Volt mountain bike saddle enhances its durability.
The SDG Components Circuit Ti-Alloy also scored well in durability with its microfiber top and Kevlar-reinforced sides extending from the tail to the nose. The SQlab Ergowave Active features similar Kevlar reinforcement wrapping around the tail.
Weight
Saddle weight is a less subjective metric. In cycling, lighter components are generally preferred. Saddles are a relatively easy and often cost-effective area to reduce bike weight.
We weighed each saddle to determine its mass accurately. Weights are specific to the tested models, and variations in construction and price points may affect weight in other versions.
Lightweight MTB Saddle Options
Lightweight Saddle Construction
Lightweight mountain bike saddle designs aimed at reducing overall bike weight.
The WTB Koda and Tioga Spyder Outland were among the lightest, at 203g and 202g respectively. The Spyder Outland is exceptionally light at 178g when used without its anti-slip pads.
Comfort and Performance in MTB Saddles
A comfortable mountain bike saddle is essential for enjoyable and extended rides.
How to Choose a Mountain Bike Saddle
Finding the right saddle can transform your riding experience. Focus on key factors to simplify your selection.
Riding Style/Position
Different mountain biking disciplines require different saddles. Gravity-focused riders need saddles that allow movement and are durable, while cross-country riders prioritize pedaling efficiency and stable positioning for climbs and long distances. Saddle manufacturers typically indicate intended use, which is a helpful starting point.
Matching Saddle to Riding Style
Choosing a mountain bike saddle that complements your specific riding style is crucial for optimal comfort and performance.
Saddle Comfort
Saddle comfort depends on proper fit for your anatomy. Incorrect width leads to pressure points and discomfort. Determine your sit bone width using DIY methods or professional measurement at a bike shop to find the right size. Ideal saddle width is slightly wider than your sit bone width.
Importance of Sit Bone Width for Saddle Comfort
While saddle materials and shape contribute to comfort, correct sit bone width is the most critical factor for a comfortable mountain bike saddle.
Rail Material
Saddle rails connect the saddle to the seatpost and are typically made of aluminum, steel, carbon, or titanium. Carbon and titanium rails reduce weight but increase cost. Alloy rails offer similar performance at a more affordable price.
Materials and Construction
Saddle materials impact comfort and performance. Shell materials include composites, polymer, and carbon fiber. Carbon fiber shells are lighter and stronger. Padding distribution is crucial; targeted padding enhances fit, while excessive padding can cause pressure and chafing.
Saddle Material and Construction Impact
The materials used in a mountain bike saddle significantly affect its strength, comfort, and price.
Conclusion
A comfortable mountain bike saddle is one of the most important components for an enjoyable riding experience. Finding a saddle that fits well, performs effectively, and suits your budget is crucial. Our comprehensive testing and reviews aim to guide you in finding the best mountain bike saddle to enhance your time on the trail.
