Choosing the right mountain bike (MTB) saddle is crucial for enjoying your rides, whether you’re tackling technical trails, climbing steep inclines, or enjoying long days in the saddle. A comfortable and performance-oriented Mtb Bike Saddle can significantly enhance your cycling experience, preventing discomfort and allowing you to focus on the trail ahead. This guide dives deep into some of the best MTB saddles on the market, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the perfect match for your riding style and preferences.
WTB Volt Chromoly: Best Overall MTB Bike Saddle
WTB Volt Chromoly mtb bike saddle
The WTB Volt Chromoly has long been a favorite among mountain bikers, and for good reason. It consistently delivers exceptional comfort and performance at a reasonable price, making it our top pick for the best overall mtb bike saddle. Its classic design has proven its effectiveness over time, offering a slightly curved shape that gently rises towards the rear. This provides a supportive and comfortable platform, complemented by medium-density padding, a shallow anatomical groove, and WTB’s “Comfort Zone” cutout to alleviate pressure in sensitive areas.
At a weight of just 239g for the 135mm width, the Volt Chromoly is also impressively lightweight for its price point. Testers have consistently praised its versatility, noting its suitability for various mountain biking disciplines, as well as road cycling. Available in three widths—135mm, 142mm, and 150mm—the WTB Volt caters to a wide range of riders and sit bone widths. If you’re seeking a mtb bike saddle that offers an unbeatable combination of value, comfort, and performance, the WTB Volt Chromoly is an outstanding choice. For riders prioritizing weight savings without sacrificing performance, the WTB Koda Titanium offers a lighter alternative within the WTB lineup.
Pros:
- Comfortable for long rides
- Excellent value for money
- Classic and versatile design
- Reasonably lightweight
Cons:
- None to note
Key Features:
- Weight: 239g
- Rails: Chromoly
- Sizes: 135mm, 142mm, 150mm
- Padding: Medium Density
- Cutout: Comfort Zone
Read our in-depth WTB Volt Chromoly review for more details.
Spank Oozy 220: Another Great Value MTB Bike Saddle
Spank Oozy 220 mtb bike saddle
The Spank Oozy 220 stands out as a remarkably comfortable mtb bike saddle, especially considering its reasonable price. Awarded our “Best Buy” for its comfort and value, the Oozy 220 is designed in a 144mm width, a size that proved to be a sweet spot for our testers and should accommodate a broad spectrum of riders. It features a shallow pressure relief channel to reduce perineal pressure and a relatively flat side profile. While maintaining a classic saddle shape, the Oozy 220 incorporates a wider 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 subtle rise at the rear provides additional support and helps maintain an optimal riding position. The medium-density padding strikes a perfect balance, offering lasting comfort on rides of any duration. Furthermore, the low-friction synthetic cover and snag-free shape ensure unrestricted movement. The primary drawback of the Spank Oozy 220 is its weight. At 280 grams, it is among the heavier saddles we tested, approximately 80 grams heavier than some lighter competitors. It is also only available in a single width, which may not suit all riders. Despite these minor points, the Spank Oozy 220 offers exceptional comfort and performance for its price, making it a fantastic value mtb bike saddle.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- High level of comfort
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors
- Only available in one width
Key Features:
- Weight: 280g
- Rails: Hollow Chromoly
- Width: 144mm
- Padding: Medium Density
- Pressure Relief: Channel
Read our detailed Spank Oozy 220 review for more information.
Spank Oozy 220 ideal for mountain biking and gravel riding mtb bike saddle
The Spank Oozy 220 seems pretty ideal for just about any type of mountain bike riding, and we’d even be willing to mount this saddle up on our gravel bikes for its comfort.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
WTB Koda Titanium: Best for Comfort in an MTB Bike Saddle
WTB Koda Titanium mtb bike saddle
Originally designed with female riders in mind, the WTB Koda Titanium has proven to be exceptionally comfortable for riders of all genders, earning our “Best for Comfort” award. This mtb bike saddle truly excels in providing unbeatable comfort on the trails. WTB’s signature slightly curved shape is implemented in the Koda Titanium, effectively positioning the rider in the optimal spot and offering support as it gently rises towards the tail. An anatomical channel and “Comfort Zone” cutout work in tandem to minimize pressure on the perineal area.
The Koda Titanium features softer padding compared to our other top performers, which, while potentially slightly reducing pedaling efficiency for some, was deemed negligible due to the overall comfort it provides. Impressively lightweight at just 203g, the Koda Titanium is among the lightest saddles in our test group. The primary limitation of the Koda Titanium is its availability in only medium to wider widths—142mm and 150mm. Riders with narrower sit bones or those preferring a narrower saddle may need to explore other options. Similarly, riders who prefer a firmer, less cushioned platform might find alternatives more suitable. However, if ultimate comfort is your top priority in an mtb bike saddle, the WTB Koda Titanium is an outstanding choice, regardless of gender.
Pros:
- Exceptionally comfortable for all-day riding
- Lightweight construction
- Short saddle length
Cons:
- Limited to wider widths
Key Features:
- Weight: 203g
- Rails: Titanium
- Widths: 142mm, 150mm
- Padding: Softer
- Channel & Cutout: Anatomical Channel & Comfort Zone
Explore our detailed review of the WTB Koda Titanium for a deeper dive.
WTB Koda Titanium comfortable for pedaling mtb bike saddle
The shape of the Koda proved to be very comfortable for pedaling, and the anatomical groove helped relieve pressure.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
SDG Components Bel-Air V3: Best Durability in an MTB Bike Saddle
The SDG Components Bel-Air V3 is an exceptional all-around mtb bike saddle, particularly distinguished by its outstanding durability. While durability might not always be the first consideration for mtb bike saddle buyers, it’s a crucial factor, especially for riders who frequently encounter crashes or transport their bikes in rough conditions. The Bel-Air V3 features a vacuum-sealed, seamless top with welded edges, proving highly resistant to wear and tear throughout our testing.
Importantly, this durability does not come at the expense of comfort. The Bel-Air V3 remains remarkably comfortable for both cross-country rides and more technically demanding trails. Its nylon glass base provides excellent power transfer with each pedal stroke, and its shape facilitates multiple pedaling positions, enhancing uphill performance. The primary limitation of the SDG Bel-Air V3 is its single size offering. While our testers found it comfortable, fit is highly personal, and the lack of size options means it may not suit every rider. For riders seeking a highly durable and comfortable mtb bike saddle, and if the size is a good fit, the SDG Bel-Air V3 is an excellent choice. For riders needing size options, the WTB Volt Chromoly offers similar durability in multiple sizes.
Pros:
- Exceptionally durable, seamless construction
- Excellent power transfer
- Comfortable for various riding styles
- Stylish aesthetics
Cons:
- Only available in one size
Key Features:
- Weight: 232g
- Rails: Lux Alloy
- Construction: Vacuum-sealed, Seamless Top
- Base: Nylon Glass
- Durability Focus: Welded Edges
Read our full SDG Bel Air V3 review for a comprehensive analysis.
SDG Bel Air V3 durable and comfortable mtb bike saddle
The SDG Bel Air V3 is an excellent saddle in all metrics but especially durability.
Credit: Zach Joseph Lovell
Tioga Spyder Outland: Best Lightweight MTB Bike Saddle
Tioga Spyder Outland lightweight mtb bike saddle
The Tioga Spyder Outland is a visually striking and uniquely designed mtb bike saddle engineered for minimal weight and surprising comfort, earning our “Best Lightweight” award. Its innovative design aims to reduce weight by distributing the rider’s weight across a flexible web of material suspended over a carbonite skeleton. This results in the lightest saddle in our test, weighing a mere 202g with the included anti-slip pads and an astonishing 178g without them.
Despite its unconventional appearance, the Spyder Outland’s flexible web seat cover offers unexpected comfort, providing a suspended feel unlike traditional padded saddles. On the trail, its narrow width and tapered tail promote excellent freedom of movement. The Spyder Outland is offered in a single 125mm width, making it the narrowest saddle in our test. This width may not suit all riders, particularly those with wider sit bones. However, for riders with narrow sit bones or those who prefer a narrower saddle, the Tioga Spyder Outland presents a compelling option. While its distinctive looks might be polarizing, the Tioga Spyder Outland delivers an impressively lightweight and surprisingly comfortable package, especially for riders seeking a narrower mtb bike saddle.
Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight design
- Innovative construction
- Surprisingly comfortable
- Promotes freedom of movement
Cons:
- Only available in one narrow width
Key Features:
- Weight: 178g (without pads), 202g (with pads)
- Rails: Hollow Chromoly
- Width: 125mm
- Design: Flexible Web Construction
- Lightweight Focus: Carbonite Skeleton
Explore our comprehensive Tioga Spyder Outland review for more insights.
Tioga Spyder Outland unique and lightweight mtb bike saddle
The unique construction and material of the Tioga Spyder Outland makes it lightweight and durable.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Compare MTB Bike Saddles
Testing mtb bike saddles in California terrain
Testing saddles in stunning coastal California terrain.
Credit: Heather Benson
How We Test MTB Bike Saddles
Our mtb bike saddle review process is grounded in extensive cycling experience and rigorous testing protocols. We begin by thoroughly researching the market to identify the best and most popular mtb bike saddles available. From this pool, we select a range of saddles for side-by-side testing and comparison. Our testing methodology includes a detailed examination of each saddle’s shape and construction, a drag test to assess durability, precise weight measurements, and, most importantly, extensive on-trail riding.
Each mtb bike saddle is subjected to a variety of rides, from short local loops to all-day backcountry adventures. Saddles are frequently swapped between rides and even during rides to facilitate direct comparisons under identical conditions. We prioritize assessing comfort when our bodies are fully rested to ensure a fair evaluation. For a deeper understanding of our testing process, please refer to our dedicated article: How We Test Mountain Bike Saddles.
Our mtb bike saddle testing is structured around five key rating metrics, each weighted to reflect its importance in overall saddle performance:
- Comfort (30% weighting): Subjective comfort for various ride lengths and intensities.
- Performance (20% weighting): Efficiency of pedaling, freedom of movement, and overall trail performance.
- Durability (20% weighting): Resistance to wear, tear, and damage from crashes and transport.
- Weight (20% weighting): Measured weight of the saddle, reflecting its contribution to overall bike weight.
- Versatility (10% weighting): Suitability for different mountain biking disciplines and riding styles.
Why Trust GearLab for MTB Bike Saddle Reviews?
This mtb bike saddle review is spearheaded by Jeremy Benson, former Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor, and Zach Lovell, Review Editor at OutdoorGearLab. Jeremy has been immersed in mountain biking since the early 1990s and has called the Lake Tahoe, California area home for nearly two decades. He is also the author of “Mountain Bike Tahoe“. Zach’s mountain biking journey began two decades ago, and he has since lived and ridden in renowned mountain biking destinations such as Gunnison/Crested Butte, Colorado, and Bellingham, Washington.
Collectively, Jeremy and Zach spend over 22 hours per week in the saddle throughout the riding season, whether rigorously testing bike gear or simply enjoying a ride. This extensive time on the bike cultivates a keen awareness of saddle fit, shape, padding, and performance across diverse applications. Their deep experience allows them to discern even the most subtle differences between mtb bike saddles, ensuring our reviews are insightful and trustworthy.
Phenon Comp mtb bike saddle weight
At 243g, the Phenon Comp won’t win any awards for its weight, but it’s respectable and there are lighter versions available.
Analysis and Test Results: Finding the Best MTB Bike Saddle
Over months of testing, our team pushed their physical limits while evaluating a diverse selection of mtb bike saddles. Our testing grounds spanned the varied terrain of the Western US, from Lake Tahoe to Crested Butte and the Southwestern Desert. Unpredictable mountain and desert weather added another layer of complexity, allowing us to assess each saddle’s performance in conditions ranging from dry slickrock to rain-soaked alpine trails.
Our dedicated testers rigorously used and assessed each mtb bike saddle, accumulating over one hundred miles on each model, often switching saddles mid-ride for direct comparison. Every aspect of performance was meticulously scrutinized to identify strengths and weaknesses. Each saddle was rated across our five key metrics: comfort, performance, versatility, durability, and weight. These ratings were then aggregated to determine overall scores and identify the top-performing mtb bike saddles. We also conducted a weighted drag test to objectively evaluate durability. Continue reading to discover how these saddles compare and to find the ideal mtb bike saddle for your specific needs.
What’s the Best Value MTB Bike Saddle?
At OutdoorGearLab, our mission is to identify the highest-performing products in every category we test. We recognize the added value when exceptional performance is paired with affordability. In our mtb bike saddle test, the WTB Volt Chromoly and Spank Oozy 220 clearly emerged as offering the best value-to-performance ratios.
Long rides with comfortable mtb bike saddle
Long rides, short rides — the right mountain bike saddle can make all the difference in the world.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Comfort Analysis of MTB Bike Saddles
Comfort is paramount when it comes to a bike saddle. While the level of comfort required varies based on riding style and performance demands, every cyclist values saddle comfort. Numerous factors contribute to mtb bike saddle comfort, including width, length, padding, shape, and anatomical cutouts. Comfort is inherently subjective, but we employed rigorous testing to determine the most comfortable saddles and understand why. Proper fit, particularly saddle width matched to sit bone width, is crucial for comfort. If you’re unsure about your ideal saddle width, we recommend professional sit bone measurement at a bike shop. DIY measurement methods are also available online.
In our comfort testing, the WTB Koda Titanium emerged as the most comfortable mtb bike saddle. Despite being initially designed for women, its comfort resonated with all testers. Its short length, medium width, softer padding, slightly curved shape, and anatomical depression made it a unanimous favorite.
Comfort subjective mtb bike saddle designs
Comfort is always subjective, and various manufacturers come up with wildly different designs to address it. The Koda Team up top and the Tioga Spyder is below.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Our testing also revealed that comfort doesn’t necessitate high cost. The WTB Volt Chromoly, costing significantly less than many competitors, also scored high in comfort. Its slightly curved shape, medium width, and anatomical groove proved highly agreeable, particularly for extended seated pedaling. Similarly, the Spank Oozy 220 impressed with its pressure relief channel, pressure zone contours, wide nose, and subtle tail rise.
WTB Volt teardrop shape mtb bike saddle
The view from above highlights the teardrop saddle shape of the Volt.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Performance Evaluation of MTB Bike Saddles
While most saddles perform their primary function similarly, our performance metric assesses subtle differences in shape, padding, and overall comfort that impact on-trail performance. A comfortable mtb bike saddle is beneficial, but it shouldn’t hinder pedaling efficiency or freedom of movement during climbs and descents. Some saddle shapes are designed to facilitate rider movement and prevent snagging on baggy riding shorts.
Unnoticeable mtb bike saddle for better performance
The less you notice your saddle, the better.
Credit: Heather Benson
The WTB Volt Chromoly again stood out in performance. This enduring model boasts a classic shape that is comfortable for seated pedaling, with a medium length and width promoting ample freedom of movement. WTB saddles are known for their durability and tendency to become even more comfortable over time. The Volt is a saddle that seamlessly integrates with your bike, requiring minimal thought from the rider, which is a hallmark of excellent performance.
WTB Volt performance and value mtb bike saddle
The Volt is an enticing option for its mix of performance and value.
Credit: Heather Benson
The SDG Components Bel-Air V3 also impressed in performance. Its smaller profile and nylon glass base enhance power transfer, and its shape accommodates multiple pedaling positions. The Ergon SM Pro, despite its softer feel, also optimizes power transfer and remains unobtrusive on descents.
Scoop Race Shallow testing mtb bike saddle
Testing the Scoop Race Shallow on a lovely spring day.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Versatility Analysis of MTB Bike Saddles
While mtb bike saddles are primarily designed for mountain biking, some models demonstrate greater versatility, proving suitable for various cycling disciplines. Certain saddles are more specialized for enduro, downhill, or shuttle riding, while others excel across the board. Testers favored models that could be confidently mounted on any bike in their quiver—road, gravel, trail, or shuttle. These versatile competitors scored higher in this metric due to their overall comfort and adaptable performance.
The SQ Lab 60X stood out as a versatile performer. While designed with electric mountain bikes in mind, it performs admirably on human-powered bikes for trail riding or commuting. Its active rails, moving up to 7 degrees, accommodate pedaling motion regardless of power source.
SQ Lab 60X versatile mtb bike saddle
Credit: Zach Joseph Lovell
The SDG Circuit Ti Alloy, while a good mtb bike saddle, scored lower in versatility. Its moderate width and tapered tail promote movement, but its flatter profile can create pressure points for some riders. This saddle may be better suited for riders who spend less time seated pedaling, such as those who prioritize lift-accessed riding or prefer a firmer saddle.
Comparing wide and narrow mtb bike saddles for versatility
Comparing a wide and shorter saddle (R) with a longer and narrower saddle (L).
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Durability Assessment of MTB Bike Saddles
Durability is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of mtb bike saddles. While most saddles offer reasonable durability under normal conditions, crashes and rough handling during transport are common occurrences. Manufacturers address this by incorporating abrasion-resistant materials in vulnerable areas like the wings and tail. Top-performing saddles in durability feature reinforced materials to protect against damage. Construction methods also influence durability, with techniques like vacuum sealing offering improved resilience compared to stapling.
The SDG Bel-Air V3 earned top marks for durability. Its seamless, vacuum-sealed microfiber top with welded edges proved exceptionally robust. In our weighted drag test, simulating harsh impacts, the Bel-Air V3 showed minimal damage, even after extensive trail use.
Spyder Outland durable mtb bike saddle
The Spyder Outland performed great on the trail, it was comfortable with a shape that was easy to move around.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Both WTB saddles, the Volt Chromoly and Koda Titanium, feature microfiber seat material with abrasion-resistant reinforcement on the tail. Our long-term testing with a two-year-old Volt, subjected to numerous crashes, confirms the effectiveness of this reinforcement.
WTB Volt abrasion-resistant rear mtb bike saddle
The Volts rear is comprised of abrasion-resistant material.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
The SDG Components Circuit Ti-Alloy | SDG Circuit Ti-Alloy also scored well in durability, featuring a microfiber top and Kevlar-reinforced sides extending from the tail to the nose. The SQlab Ergowave Active similarly incorporates Kevlar reinforcement wrapping around its tail.
Weight Measurement of MTB Bike Saddles
Weight is the most objective metric in our mtb bike saddle review. In cycling, minimizing weight is a constant pursuit, and saddles are an area where weight savings can be readily achieved. Lighter components contribute to a lighter overall bike weight, enhancing performance.
Tioga Spyder Outland lightweight mtb bike saddle weight measurement
WTB Koda Titanium lightweight mtb bike saddle weight measurement
The WTB Koda Titanium and Tioga Spyder Outland were virtually tied for the lightest mtb bike saddles in our test, weighing 203g and 202g respectively. The Spyder Outland offers an even lower weight of 178g when used without its anti-slip pads.
Comfortable mtb bike saddle
There’s no substitute for a comfortable mountain bike saddle.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
How to Choose the Right MTB Bike Saddle
Finding the right mtb bike saddle can transform your riding experience. Focus on these key considerations to simplify your search.
Riding Style and Position Considerations for MTB Bike Saddles
Different mountain bike disciplines, from cross-country to enduro and downhill, demand slightly different saddle characteristics. Gravity-focused riders prioritize minimal saddle interference and robust materials. Cross-country riders seek saddles that enhance pedaling efficiency and provide stable positioning for climbs and long rides. Manufacturers typically indicate a saddle’s intended use, which is a helpful starting point.
Choosing mtb bike saddle for riding style
Choosing a saddle that compliments your riding style goes a long way toward finding the perfect saddle for you.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
MTB Bike Saddle Comfort and Fit
Saddle comfort hinges on achieving the correct fit for your individual anatomy. A too-narrow saddle can cause pressure points and numbness, while a too-wide saddle can lead to chafing and hinder pedaling. Determine your sit bone width through DIY methods or professional measurement at a bike shop. Select a saddle width slightly wider than your sit bone width for optimal support and comfort.
Sit bone width importance for mtb bike saddle comfort
While material choice and saddle shape do have an effect on comfort, finding the right sit bone width is the most important aspect of finding a comfortable saddle.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Rail Material Options for MTB Bike Saddles
Saddle rails, connecting the saddle to the seatpost, are typically made from aluminum, steel, carbon, or titanium. Weight-conscious riders can reduce weight by choosing carbon or titanium rails, provided the increased cost is acceptable. Alloy rails offer comparable performance at a more budget-friendly price.
Materials and Construction of MTB Bike Saddles
Saddle materials significantly impact comfort and performance. Common shell materials include composites, polymer, and carbon fiber. Carbon fiber shells, found in higher-end saddles, offer increased strength and reduced weight. Padding is another critical factor; strategically placed padding enhances fit and comfort. However, excessive padding can create pressure and chafing.
MTB bike saddle material effect on performance and comfort
The materials that make up your saddle can have a considerable effect on strength, comfort, and, of course, price.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal MTB Bike Saddle
A comfortable mtb bike saddle is a fundamental component for enjoyable mountain biking. Selecting a saddle that fits well, performs effectively, and aligns with your budget is essential. Our comprehensive testing and reviews aim to guide you in finding the best mtb bike saddle to elevate your riding experience.
