Top Seats for Bike – Guide & Comparison
If you’re looking for the best bike seat to help you enjoy your cycling trips without saddle sores, you have come to the right place, especially if you don’t have the time to read all our bike seat reviews. After examining the quality and value offered by some of the critically and commercially acclaimed models in this line, we’ve concluded that the one you should get is the Giddy Up! Memory Foam Bike Seat. This is a complete set that includes not just the bike seat but also a tail light, a seat protection cover, a reflective band, and a mounting wrench. The seat features two rubber balls that will absorb the shocks coming from potholes, bumps, or difficult terrain so that you can enjoy a smooth riding experience. This model also has a universal fit, and since it comes with all the parts you need, the installation process is fast and easy. If our first pick is unavailable, you should give the YLG Oversized Comfort Bike Seat a look.
Comparison table
1st Choice
This complete bundle comes with a comfortable, universal fit seat, as well as a set of useful accessories that will help sweeten the deal. The bundle includes a tail light, a protection cover for the seat, a reflective band for your foot or arm, and all the tools you need to install the seat in the shortest time.
The padding is very soft, which means that this option can cause discomfort to riders over 200 lbs.
With this purchase, you can add more comfort and safety to your old bike. It also offers a lot of value since, for the price of a bike seat, you get a complete set that includes numerous extra accessories.
2nd Best
The wide ergonomic design of this model allows it to fit users with wide hips perfectly, without compromising leg movement. It comes fitted with strong dual absorption springs that will provide better support and protection without unpleasant noises. The product also comes with a universal adapter.
The seat points upward in the front area, which can cause some discomfort for the crotch.
If you feel ready to try something new, the unique shape of this seat is designed to provide a comfortable fit around the body, and it is specifically designed for cyclists who require a wider support area.
Also To Consider
This model focuses on user comfort since it utilizes a dual-shock absorbing ball design, and it has an airflow vent in the middle to help improve heat-dissipation and keep you cool and dry on long journeys. The long soft nose design will provide adequate support without obstructing the thigh movement.
The seat is very soft, which can be an issue since it can compress quickly under the weight of heavy riders.
This option is great for long-distance riding since it boasts a long, narrow nose and great cushioning for your sit bones. It is also available in multiple stylish colors that can suit the look of your bike.
10 Best Bike Seats (Updated Reviews) in 2021
With so many saddle bicycle seats available on the market, finding a good product requires sifting through numerous models, and not all of them offer the best quality. To make it easier for you to find the best bike seats, we have selected some of the top-rated products and showcased them below.
- 1. Giddy Up! Memory Foam Bike Seat
- 2. YLG Oversized Comfort Bike Seat
- 3. TONBUX Wide Bike Seat Replacement
- 4. IPOW Comfort Universal Fit Bike Seat
- 5. Xmifer Oversized Universal Bike Seat
- 6. ECXTOP Comfort Waterproof Bike Seat
- 7. SZXSDY Comfortable Memory Foam Bike Seat
- 8. SGODDE Comfortable Bike Seat Replacement
- 9. OXYVAN Universal Replacement Bike Seat
- 10. Roguoo Waterproof Bicycle Saddle Bike Seat
- Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Giddy Up! Memory Foam Bike Seat
This option is available as a complete bundle that comes with a wealth of useful accessories and a mounting set that includes a wrench and an Allen key so that you can install the seat in a matter of minutes. Other accessories found in the set include a reflective band for added safety when riding, an LED taillight with batteries, and a waterproof protective cover.
The memory foam construction of the bike seat delivers a pliable feel that will spring back to shape, and this makes it perfect for riders who prefer softer cushioning. Moreover, you won’t have to worry about potholes, bumps, or difficult terrain ruining your riding experience since this option also comes fitted with two rubber shock-absorbing balls beneath the seat.
The unit offers a universal fit, which means that it can be installed on almost any type of bicycle, and it includes a tilt-adjusting clamp so that you can position the seat at the angle that works best for you.
Pros
For the price of a bike seat, you’ll get a bundle that includes numerous useful accessories and a complete mounting set to make the installation process easier and faster.
The cover is made from high-quality artificial leather that gives the unit a classy aspect, and it will also make it waterproof so that you can use it any time of the year.
The seat is filled with memory foam that offers a comfortable experience for both short and long riding journeys.
It delivers a universal fit, which means that it can be mounted on any standard bicycle, and since it comes with a protective cover, you can keep it in good shape during the off-season.
Cons
The tail light is not user-friendly since once the batteries die out, you’ll need to remove the seat entirely to get access to the battery compartment.
The seat is not very wide, which means that some riders might find it uncomfortable.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($35.95)
2. YLG Oversized Comfort Bike Seat
The oversized shape of this seat is designed to prevent painful rides for cyclists who require a wider support area. The innovative design will help disperse the pressure across the entire seat evenly for improved comfort, and it will fit wider hips without compromising leg movement.
Another aspect of this model that helps improve user comfort is the addition of dual spring rubber balls suspensions at the bottom of the seat. These springs provide stable and strong shock absorption to give you improved protection when riding, and they are designed to stay silent even when the bike is riding on rugged roads.
The universal fit makes this model compatible with most cruiser, road city, and mountain bikes, and it comes with an adapter that makes the installation process go quicker. The unit uses memory foam and gel for the cushioning, and the surface is covered in a waterproof and wear-resistant PVC leather.
Pros
The package includes all the mounting tools you’ll need to attach the seat, and since it boasts a universal design, it will work with almost any bicycle available on today’s market.
The PVC leather cover has a luxurious look and feel to it, and thanks to its rugged construction, it also delivers waterproof performance, wear-resistance, and it will prevent you from sliding.
The extra arc design of this model is perfect for people with wide hips since it provides a comfortable fit around the body without limiting mobility.
You won’t have to install bike lights since the seat comes with a special reflective tape on the back.
Cons
It is not designed for cyclists over 230lbs. since the cushioning will start to get thinner and thinner the longer you ride.
The design can cause some discomfort to the crotch area since the nose of the seat points slightly upward.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($39.99)
3. TONBUX Wide Bike Seat Replacement
With this option, you can combine comfort with style since the unit is available in four different colors, and you can get the one that will best suit the look of your bike. The unit is padded with memory foam to give the user extra comfort, and it will support and cushion the body in just the right spots to prevent sores after a long day of cycling.
The nose of the seat is long, soft, and it has an ergonomic design that will not obstruct your thigh from moving freely. Moreover, it is also designed to alleviate pain to the legs and scuffs, especially during long journeys. The two shock-absorbing balls offer good elasticity, endurance, and toughness and can deal with very rough terrain.
The airflow vent in the middle will allow for better air circulation and will provide the user with a definite advantage on long, hot rides since it can speed up heat-dissipation to keep the rider cool and dry.
Pros
The cover is made from artificial microfiber leather that is wear-resistant, smooth, and non-slip, which means that you will use less energy to stay in control of the bike.
It is available in four different stylish colors, black, black with blue, black with green, and black with red, so that you can get the one that complements the theme of your bike.
The long and narrow nose combined with the airflow vent in the middle makes this model an excellent choice for long-distance riders since it provides excellent comfort and mobility.
If you are not happy with your purchase, the seller provides a 90-day window to return the product and get your money back.
Cons
The seat is a bit too cushy, which is good for small riders, but during long trips, heavier users will start to sink until they feel the hard base of the seat.
The seat is not very big, so keep this in mind if you have a wide bottom.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($25.98)
4. IPOW Comfort Universal Fit Bike Seat
This versatile bike seat is designed for long outdoor riding, but it can also be used for commutes at work or school thanks to its soft design that promotes a comfortable fit. The seat uses a rubber ball anti-shock suspension system that will keep vibrations from road cracks, potholes, and bumps from causing discomfort.
The thick, high-density memory foam padding combined with the unique shape of this model will help support the hips well so that there’s less pressure on other areas of your body, such as the spine. What’s more, the saddle features a breathable hollow center that will help you avoid sweaty discomfort when riding in warm weather.
The cover of the bike seat is made from premium artificial leather that won’t degrade easily under the harsh UV radiation of the sun, unlike other PVC materials. To add to that, the cover is waterproof, and it is six-layer stitched, which gives it improved durability.
Pros
The seat cover can reflect sunlight, which won’t just limit the damaging effects that UV radiation can have on the seat, but will also make the saddle temperature lower for daily use.
The seat has a standard diameter rail clamp that allows it to fit most common bike seat posts, and the package includes the tools needed for the installation process.
It is a versatile product that is designed to provide a comfortable fit for both men and women, and the lightweight construction will decrease the burden for long-distance riding.
The breathable hollow center will allow air to circulate freely to prevent the cyclist from overheating and sweating when riding for long hours or in warm weather.
Cons
It is not designed for heavy people with very wide bottoms since the seat is narrow in the front area.
The reflective tape on the back of the seat is not very durable since it can come off after just a few rides.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($19.99)
5. Xmifer Oversized Universal Bike Seat
This model features an extra wide and oversized seat shape that’s filled with soft memory foam padding, and it can give even larger cyclists the support required for comfortable riding. The dual spring suspension design will give relief to your prostate and tailbone so that you can say goodbye to pain and focus again on the fun of riding your bike.
The long and soft nose design delivers excellent support without obstructing the thigh movement. The saddle is curved, and this allows it to have a breathable airflow vent in the middle, which will improve heat-dissipation considerably so that your bottoms don’t get drenched in sweat after a long ride.
The product comes with two mounting tools so that you can start installing the bike seat immediately. There’s no need to worry about compatibility issues since the unit is designed to deliver a universal fit for all types of bicycles, including stationary exercise bikes.
Pros
Safety is very important, and to this end, the package includes a reflective arm tape that will keep you visible to other drivers, and it can also be used for jogging and running.
The double springs found under the seat will keep your riding experience smoother than ever since they help reduce vibrations and will provide great relief for your tailbone and prostate.
The saddle is covered with artificial microfiber leather, which is waterproof, durable, smooth, and easy to keep clean since a simple wipe will remove all the dirt.
It is available in multiple colors, and this is a great feature for cyclists who are looking for a product that can go well with the rest of their bike.
Cons
The padding is very soft, which can be an issue for some potential buyers since it compacts faster compared to options that use a firmer foam.
The artificial leather cover is a bit too rubbery, and it can stick to your pants when sitting down.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($23.96)
6. ECXTOP Comfort Waterproof Bike Seat
The cushioning of the saddle is made of thickened high-density memory foam that will reduce the pressure on your bones and muscles, and it boasts an ergonomic design that allows the thighs to move freely. With this model, you can forget all about the pain and focus instead on enjoying the thrill of the ride.
The seat also has a wide design, which is great for people with large bottoms, and since the ergonomic design will support the hips properly, there will be less pressure on other areas of the body, which translates into a far more comfortable riding experience.
Another feature that will help enhance the experience of using this seat is the high-quality double shock-absorber ball that will prevent the vibrations from the road from transferring to your body. Lastly, the saddle comes with a hollow channel in the center that will help long rides in hot conditions become more bearable.
Pros
You won’t have to worry about rain or dust with this product since the bike saddle is covered with a waterproof PVC leather that is also abrasion-resistant and non-slip.
The hollow design will help promote good airflow, and it will prevent water from collecting on the saddle so that it can dry more quickly if left outside in the rain.
It uses a universal one-saddle-fits-all design, which means that the unit is easy to install on almost any type of bike, and all the installation parts are included in the package.
The seat is equipped with a reflective backlight tape that will make you more visible at night so that you can ride more safely.
Cons
The bolt and nuts that come provided with the seat are of poor quality, and they can get stripped if tightened too hard.
The foam is semi-hard, which can be an issue for riders who prefer a softer feel.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($15.99)
7. SZXSDY Comfortable Memory Foam Bike Seat
Thanks to its ideal blend of comfortable yet supportive padding and wide dimensions, this option is perfect for larger riders who demand a base that won’t get in the way while cycling. It is also a unisex model and very versatile since it is designed to fit riders of all ages. It is also compatible with most bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, fixed gear bikes, and more.
The memory foam inside the seat will make you feel like you’re sitting on a pillow, and compared to most stock seats, this one includes more cushion, which is great for riders who prefer a softer saddle. The tilt of the seat is adjustable, which makes it easier to find your most comfortable riding position.
This option also shares the same popular design as some of the other models in this range, namely the airflow vent in the middle that will help air circulate between your buttocks to prevent excessive perspiration.
Pros
The seat surface is made from premium artificial leather that doesn’t degrade under sunlight, and it can also reflect some of the sunlight so that the seat can stay cooler in the summer.
This model is completely waterproof since it uses the newest vacuum technology with all-around sealing that will prevent rainwater from seeping in.
It has an ergonomic design and thick high-density memory foam padding that will help give proper support to your sit bones so that you can ride for longer without feeling sore.
The anti-vibration rubber ball will absorb the road shocks so that riding over potholes, bumps, or other road obstacles can feel smoother.
Cons
This option is best suited for recreational cycling since it lacks the long, narrow nose required for long-distance riding.
The installation process isn’t complicated, but do keep in mind that you will need some muscle since some of the bolts are quite difficult to loosen.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($27.99)
8. SGODDE Comfortable Bike Seat Replacement
This comfortable bike seat is anatomically optimized to fit riders of all ages and sexes, and it is made of high-quality materials that can handle use in all types of outdoor conditions. The feel of the saddle matters a lot, and this model is padded with thick widened high-density memory foam that is very soft, but that can retain its shape when not in use.
Moreover, the bike seat is also suitable for long-distance riding since it has an ergonomic design, and it comes with a dual spring anti-shock ball suspension positioned under the saddle. The shock-absorption effect of the suspension will keep the saddle more stable when riding off-road or on bumpy roads.
Meanwhile, the hollow design of the product comes with a set of advantages. It will ensure that water won’t collect on the saddle surface, which makes it easier to dry the seat if you leave it in the rain. The vent in the middle will also keep your bottom properly ventilated and improve overall comfort.
Pros
The saddle is covered with high-quality PVC leather that is waterproof, non-slip, and abrasion-resistant so that you will no longer need to worry about rain or dust.
The package includes a seat rail clamp with a standard 7/8” inside diameter that allows the bike saddle to fit most types of bikes, from road and mountain bikes to stationary and electric bikes.
With this model, you will be safer when riding the bike at any time of the day since it comes fitted with a reflective backlight tape that will keep you visible on the road.
The saddle surface is designed to keep the rider in complete control without the risk of slipping.
Cons
The padding and the suspension springs are too soft for riders over 200lbs. since they allow the body to shift from one side to another.
The reflective backlight is useful, but it is just a sticker, which means that it can peel off after a certain period.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($29.99)
9. OXYVAN Universal Replacement Bike Seat
The seat is padded with high-density memory foam, and since the maximum padding is positioned right below the main pressure points of the sit bone, it will free you from the pain and sores that long cycling hours can cause. It also has a long and soft nose bridge that allows for a natural and comfortable position that will not hinder the mobility of the thighs.
The shock absorption performance is good as well since the unit uses a double spring rubber ball that’s positioned at the bottom of the saddle. The ball will keep the seat stable, and it has a strong damping effect to give you more security and better control of the bike when riding on difficult roads.
The leather that covers the saddle is 100% weatherproof, which means that you can leave your bike outside in the rain and get it ready to ride by simply wiping the water droplets away.
Pros
The ergonomic design ensures a natural and comfortable transition to the hip, and it won’t stop the thighs from moving freely, which will decrease the pain and wear of the legs when riding.
The heavy-duty dual springs under the seat act as shock absorbers and will keep your riding experience pleasant, even when riding on rugged terrain.
It has a stylish design, and it is available in multiple colors so that buyers can settle for the one that goes best with the look of their bike.
It is one of the most affordable options on the market, and it comes with all the tools required so that you can start installing it right away.
Cons
The leather cover can cause you to sweat during long rides since the seat doesn’t have a competent ventilation system.
At first, the padding can feel a little stiff since it takes a bit to break it in.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($16.99)
10. Roguoo Waterproof Bicycle Saddle Bike Seat
The eye-catching design is the first thing that potential buyers will notice about this model, but while looks do matter, what this brand is all about is comfort. The Roguoo bike seat has a long soft nose, and this allows it to offer a natural and comfortable sitting position without obstructing thigh movement.
The design of this model is perfect for long journeys since the padding is firm yet soft, and the ergonomic shape of the saddle will help alleviate the scuff and pain to the legs that are often associated with long-distance rides. What’s more, the center of the seat has a hollow vent that will relieve pressure and keep air circulating so that you can avoid sweaty discomfort.
It has a universal fit, and it comes with a standard diameter rail clamp and a complete installation set that includes all the tools needed to mount the seat on the most common bikes available on the market.
Pros
It boasts an eye-catching design that is available in multiple colors, including black, blue, green, and red, so that you can customize your purchase to go well with your bike.
The saddle is designed to handle intense usage since it is covered with a wear and tear-resistant microfiber artificial leather that can resist scratches from foliage when riding off-road.
The center of the seat features a hollow vent that serves to improve the breathability of the saddle so that your skin can stay cool and fresh when riding for long hours.
The anti-shock rubber ball suspension and the high-density memory foam padding will protect you from the unpleasant vibration caused by riding on rugged terrain.
Cons
It is not designed for big riders since the padding will flatten out if there’s too much weight on it, and this will expose the bottom area of the body to the hard plastic seat.
The reflector sticker is not very durable since it peels off easily.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($19.99)
Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
There are very few items that are more important or more personal to a cyclist than the bike seat since this is one of the key biking equipment pieces that can make or break the cycling experience.
With so many bike seats for adults and youth available on the market, identifying the right product for your needs can be time-consuming. To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of the crucial factors and features one ought to consider when looking for the best bicycle seats.
Types of seats
Bike seats for men and women fall into two categories, performance seats that have minimal cushioning and cushioning seats that are softer. Performance bike seats generally have a longer and narrower frame and minimal padding for superior power transfer and minimal chafing while pedaling. These saddles are ideal for mountain and touring bikes.
If you’re in the market for comfortable bike seats for recreational cycling and cruising, then cushioning seats will be the better choice. These are generally wider and come equipped with springs to absorb some of the shocks and bumps from the road. They also tend to have a shorter nose.
Types of cushioning
There are two main types of cushioning, and these are gel and foam. The gel is a material that is found in some of the most comfortable bicycle seats on the market since it molds to the unique shape of your body, and it provides a plush feel for casual rides. The downside is that gel compresses more quickly, which means that it is not a good choice for long rides.
Foam cushioning is found in most replacement bike seats since it has a pliable feel, and it retains its shape. It provides more support than gel, and heavier riders can opt for firmer foams that won’t compact as quickly as a gel.
There are also plenty of mountain bike seats that come with no cushioning, and only a cotton or leather cover. While these can feel uncomfortable at first, they have the advantage of staying cooler, which is a huge plus on long rides in hot weather.
Cover material
There are three main materials used for the cover of the seat, namely synthetic, cotton, and leather. Most products available on the market, and particularly the cheap bike seats, are made entirely of synthetic materials since they are lighter, cheaper, and require no break-in time. This makes this type of cover material a popular choice for most users.
Leather saddles have a break-in period of around 200 miles, but after this period, they will mold to the weight and shape of the rider. Genuine leather is expensive, which is why most affordable bike seats will use a synthetic substitute that works and looks very similar to leather.
Synthetic leather has the advantage of being 100% waterproof since genuine leather needs to be treated with conditioner frequently to protect it from moisture and UV radiation.
Cotton is no longer a common cover material, but it does have the advantage of offering great comfort and control since it stretches and moves just the right amount. It has a shorter break-in period than leather, but it is much more difficult to maintain than synthetic materials.
Size
Bicycle seats for men and women come in different sizes that can accommodate all body types. Finding the right size has mostly to do with the width of the saddle, and you should get a product that is wide enough to provide good support, but not too wide that it causes chafing and rubbing.
While most bicycle seats are unisex, if you want to get a custom fit, there’s a wide selection of men’s or women’s bike seats to choose from. Bicycle seats for women are generally wider since they need to accommodate the differences in hip-width and sit bones.
However, when looking for the most comfortable mountain bike seats, you shouldn’t focus just on bike seats for women or men. You should always choose the option that fits your body type the best. You might find that as a woman, a man’s seat may fit you better, or vice versa.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Based on what criteria should you choose a bike seat?
The main thing to look for in a bike saddle is comfort. The shape, size, and cushioning should work together to keep you comfortable throughout your journey. Some may prefer a firmer cushioning while other riders like their bike seat to be a little firmer. That’s up to you to decide.
Make sure you pick an affordable bike seat with high-quality cushioning. Memory foam is the most popular type of cushioning that’s ideal for long trips. Casual riders may prefer gel cushioning more since it provides a plushier comfort for short-distance journeys.
Keep in mind that while a soft, deep seat may feel comfortable at first, contact and movement are likely to increase discomfort and heat the more time you spend in the saddle. Lastly, when choosing a product, make sure that you also take the time to read a bike seat review to make sure that it performs as advertised.
Q: How do you replace your bike seat?
While some of the details can vary depending on the type of bike you have, the process of replacing small and large bicycle seats is usually the same. The first step is to stabilize the bike, either by putting it in a stand or by leaning it against a wall or surface that is sturdy enough to handle its weight.
Now take a look under the seat, and you should find two sets of screws that hold the old seat in place. Loosen them so that you can remove the seat. Most bike seats come with 4 or 5mm nuts, so make sure that you have the right wrench for the job.
Next, take your new cheap bike seat and align the rails of the seat on the frame. Now you can start to insert the bolt in the holes. Use your hands to fasten the nut so that you can find the best seat position and the angle that looks comfortable to you. After you’re done with the seat adjustment, you can tighten the nuts and give your bike a test ride.
Q: How high should your seat be when cycling?
Even if you have the best mountain bike seats, to achieve the best comfort, cyclists need to find what their ideal saddle height is. There is no universal height level that will work for everyone, but there is a common way that can help you find how high you should set the seat when cycling. This method is called the heel-to-pedal method.
You should start by sitting on the bike, leaning against a wall, on the turbo trainer, or holding on to a table or chair. Now put your heel on the pedal and move the pedal until you’ve reached the 6 o’clock position. At this position, if the seat is set up at the correct height, the knee will be completely straight.
If you find that your knee is still bent, then you will need to adjust the height. Make sure to do it slowly since otherwise, you’ll risk getting the seat too high and losing contact with the pedal.