March 25, 2021 2 min read

Everyone’s body geometry is different and saddles are a highly personal decision. There are some steps you can take to help you find your ideal saddle. Saddle width is the first thing you should know before choosing your saddle. The correctly chosen saddle will provide comfort and enjoyment for the ride.

So what size is right for you?

  

 
The Ischial Tuberosity is commonly referred to as the “sit bones,” “sitting bones,” or “sitz bones”(“sitz” literally translates to “seat” in German).  In many cases, they are measured to potentially find your optimal saddle width. A saddle should fit like a pair of shoes! If a saddle is too narrow, it will increase pressure exactly in spots where it shouldn’t. By measuring your sit bones you will be on the right track to finding the saddle for you - one where your sit bones lie flat on the saddle naturally relieving pressure in sensitive areas.
 
At Treadly you can come in for a sit bone measurement and we will guide you using our SQ Lab seat. But you can also take a DIY approach! 
 
 

DIY Sit Bone Measurement

You will need:
A stool / chair with hard flat surface
A4 thick corrugated cardboard (or A3 thin folded over.)
A pencil / marker
A ruler / measuring tape
     

    Method

    Sit upright on your chair with the corrugated cardboard underneath you with your back straight and shoulders back. Pull yourself down onto the stool to create more pressure and a stronger impression.
     

    Identify the seat bone impressions in the cardboard. Mark and measure the sit bone distance from centre to centre of the impressions. This is your sit bone measurement.
     

    Add the required value for your desired sitting position (less for an aggressive aero position, more for an upright everyday position) to your sit bone measurement.
     
    With this new value, you can begin to select a saddle for your personal riding style and in the correct width!


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