🚴 A leather saddle for bikepacking? That's a really bad idea!
Between its chic allure and its reputation for comfort, the leather saddle seems to be a luxury choice for bikepacking enthusiasts. However, behind its elegance lie significant challenges.
An adaptation time not to be neglected for your buttocks
The leather saddle isn't immediately the cloud of comfort you've been dreaming of. At first, it looks more like a park bench than a soft sofa.
The adaptation phase of a leather saddle varies according to several factors: the saddle model, the width adapted to the cyclist's pelvis, and even the type of rails (steel or titanium, for those in the know 🔍 ) that support the saddle. Every detail counts, from the rider's weight to the accessories added to the bike, such as panniers or luggage for bikepacking trips.
The bête noire of leather saddles: water
Leather, though elegant and comfortable, has a kryptonite: moisture. Exposure to water wreaks havoc, from warping to loss of suppleness, not to mention the risk of cracking. A nightmare for those who love their leather saddle.
Even top-of-the-range saddles or those specifically designed for different types of bike (road, city, mountain bike) are not spared. Every drop of water is a threat to leather, regardless of quality or price.
But there are ways to protect these precious accessories. Experienced cyclists recommend the use of waterproof covers or special leather treatments.
Maintenance: an obstacle course?
What's more, if managing water resistance is hard enough, keeping those saddles in good condition is another challenge, especially after a ride where they've braved the elements(the usual impromptu storm ⛈️). For gravel riders or long-distance hikers, leather saddles require special attention.
Mind you, this is not at all like wiping a bike frame or checking the brakes. No, it 's much more subtle and requires a certain technique.
So you need to dedicate some time and energy to this task after every ride, or at least on a regular basis. But for those who choose leather, it's the price they have to pay to maintain the elegance and comfort of their saddle.
🌞 Actually, a leather saddle isn't so bad for bikepacking!
These saddles, while having a few drawbacks, are objects of fascination and admiration. Their elegance and history inspire, reminiscent of cycling heroes and their legendary mounts.
A former French President, himself a cycling enthusiast, once shared his admiration for these mythical pieces with the JDD: "I was amazed, cyclists were my heroes. But what interested me most was to see the bikes, so beautiful, with their leather saddles...".
This quote captures the very essence of the appeal of leather saddles: a mixture of nostalgia, respect for craftsmanship and admiration for their timeless beauty.
Dreamlike custom comfort
Once the adaptation phase is over, the leather saddle becomes a veritable throne of comfort for bikepacking enthusiasts. The magic happens especially over long distances, where leather, with its ability to perfectly hug the rider's contours (from his buttocks clearly 😅 ), offers an almost tailor-made riding experience.
Even cyclists who wear cycling shorts can't deny the beneficial effect of a well-fitted saddle on their pedaling experience.
In short, opting for a leather saddle when bikepacking means choosing a level of comfort that improves over time, promising miles of pleasure on the road, no matter how far you ride.
A leather saddle is a lifelong companion
Bikepacking enthusiasts know that saddles aren't just spare parts on their bikes, they're the heart of their pedaling experience. And here, leather reigns supreme. Its durability is undisputed, especially compared to other materials that can wear or warp after repeated exposure to the rigors of travel.
This longevity makes leather an economical long-term choice. Properly cared for, it can accompany a cyclist for many years, even decades, becoming a faithful companion on all roads (without ever complaining about the weather, him! 😉 ).
Personalization: when the saddle becomes a work of art
The uniqueness of every leather saddle lies in its ability to be customized in terms of tension, shape and even aesthetics. Cyclists can choose models adapted not only to their morphology (taking into account the ischium and pelvis) but also to their personal taste.
Saddles in a variety of colors, engraved or with distinctive patterns, each piece tells a unique story. From classic models to more contemporary versions, leather saddles are designed to meet the specific needs of both men and women.
🏁 Leather saddle for bikepacking: So, for or against?
As we come to the end of our exploration, the question still arises: to opt or not to opt for a leather saddle when bikepacking? The answer, far from clear-cut, depends on a number of factors, including personal needs in terms of comfort, durability, maintenance and style.
On the one hand, the advantages of leather saddles are undeniable, but they come with their own set of challenges.
Ultimately, choosing a leather saddle for bikepacking means weighing up the pros and cons according to your own priorities. If aesthetics, customizable comfort and durability win the day, then a leather saddle is a wise choice. On the other hand, if the regular maintenance and adaptation period seem daunting, other options might be more appropriate (no judgment, I promise! ✋).
