We have subjected over 50 models of mountain bike saddles to rigorous testing and evaluation over the course of several months and thousands of miles of riding to determine the optimal designs currently available.
As one of the three points of contact between the rider and the bicycle, the saddle significantly influences comfort and performance. Choosing a saddle that meets both your essential and preferential requirements can meaningfully enhance your riding experience.
We procured 13 of the most promising saddles for side-by-side comparison, evaluating each based on construction, materials, contouring, weight, and overall comfort and control.
While form follows function, subtle variations in profile, padding, and build quality yielded noticeable differences during prolonged virtual races and technical ascents.
For recreational riders seeking a durable yet forgiving saddle, racers demanding lightweight yet responsive components, or any rider on a budget, we have identified options that achieve excellent value.
Beyond saddles, we have researched and reviewed the ideal combinations of tires, handlebars, dropper posts, pedals, and other accessories essential for optimizing your new mountain bike build.
Our recommendations are grounded in the Hands-on testing of equipment, evaluating how each component affects handling, efficiency, safety, and enjoyment across diverse terrain and conditions.
Best Mountain Bike Saddles
We have conducted an exhaustive evaluation of the mountain bike saddle market to curate the most exceptional options available.
From minimalistic designs optimizing lightweight to ergonomic profiles meticulously contoured for comfort, our collection caters to any and all riding preferences.
As an expert team with a robust knowledge of how each saddle influences dynamics, control, longevity, and joy of riding, we understand no single design suits every athlete.
Our selections thus span a range as diverse as the types of trails and terrain they are destined to conquer.
Whether embarking on your first mountain biking adventure or upgrading key components of a veteran rig, we enable finding the saddle perfect for optimized performance and gratification within your particular requirements and budget.
Our recommendations originate from first-hand time on the trail evaluating how each component enhances speed, efficiency, safety, and fun across varied conditions.
1. WTB Volt Gel Chromoly Saddle
Basis Specs
- Brand: WTB
- Color: Chromoly / Black
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 10.43 x 5.59 x 2.36 inches
- Material: Cromoly
- Outer Material: Gel
- Pad Type: Gel Pad
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
The WTB Volt Gel Chromoly Saddle is a high-performance and ergonomically optimized saddle designed for durability, comfort, and optimal power transfer.
This versatile saddle accommodates a wide range of riding disciplines and anthropometric profiles thanks to its three size options: narrow (135mm), medium (142mm), and wide (150mm).
The saddle features a medium-width and medium-length platform that provides resilient support for the ischial tuberosities while allowing an unrestricted pedal stroke.
The contoured, anatomically-tuned shape has a subtle rear rise and nose drop to stabilize the pelvis and prevent excessive pressure points, even during prolonged riding durations.
The Volt Gel Chromoly Saddle integrates a viscoelastic gel insert that self-adapts to the rider’s form and dynamically responds to ground inputs, effectively attenuating feedback for increased comfort, control, and efficiency.
The gel is capped by a seamless microfiber wrap that is gleaned from high-performance materials to strike a balance between cushioning and minimal weight.
The saddle shell itself is composed of a high-modulus carbon-nylon composite that optimizes power transfer, shock absorption, and vibration dampening across the spectrum of riding surfaces.
The Cr-Mo rail material provides the strength, durability, and corrosion resistance required for demanding use cases.
With a material mass of 320g, the WTB Volt Gel Chromoly Saddle delivers premium performance without compromise. Its timeless aesthetics featuring black and silver accents will complement any cycling rig.
This saddle is rated to handle weights up to 136kg and is backed by a lifetime warranty.
The WTB Volt Gel Chromoly Saddle is the product of choice for discerning riders and racers who demand the most from their equipment without sacrificing comfort, control, or capability.
Its design, engineering, and build coalesce into a saddle that transcends roles, meeting the needs of recreational and competitive cyclists alike.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Classic design
- Reasonably lightweight
- Inexpensive
Cons
- None
2. Spank Oozy+ 220 Saddles
Basis Specs
- Brand: Spank
- Color: Blue
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12 x 7.1 x 2.65 inches
- Material: Synthetic
- Outer Material: Foam
- Pad Type: Waterproof Pad
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
The Spank Oozy 220 saddle is an affordable, comfortable saddle designed for mountain bikers riders who demand performance and endurance.
This saddle delivers a co-moulded construction that eliminates seams, staples, and rough edges for a sleek, seamless feel.
The Oozy 220 features a flat and wide platform with a subtle tail-up curvature that provides stability without compromising pedaling efficiency.
An integrated pressure relief channel ensures hassle-free long miles, keeping sensitive areas cushioned and numbness at bay.
Standard steel rails for security and low-friction synthetic covers for free-moving bliss. The Oozy 220 achieves balance, with enough weight (280g) for comfort without excess baggage that slows you down. At $85, it’s lightweight on the wallet too.
Field testing by industry leaders overwhelmingly endorses the Oozy 220’s all-day comfort and capability.
“A comfortable, supportive saddle that works as well for epic XC rides as it does for technical trail riding,” reports Outdoor Gear Lab.
“An affordable, versatile saddle that most riders can enjoy,” concurs MBR. Off-Road also praises the saddle’s “comfort, shape, support and value.”
The Spank Oozy 220 accomplishes what most mountain bike saddles only aspire to, delivering performance, endurance, and value in a package that feels as fantastic as it is functional.
Whether charging through gnarlish technical sections or exploring forgotten fire roads, the Oozy 220 rises to every challenge and occasion.
By Spank’s high standards, it’s an effortless choice. When comfort, capability, and value matter most, the Oozy 220 leads the pack.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Comfortable
- Good style
Cons
- Heavier weight
- Only offered in one width
3. WTB Koda Medium Titanium Black Saddle
Basis Specs
- Brand: WTB
- Color: Titanium / Black
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 10.04 x 5.71 x 2.72 inches
- Material: Titanium
- Outer Material: Microfiber
- Pad Type: Gel Pad
The WTB Koda Medium Titanium Black saddle strikes an ideal balance of comfort, capability, and quality that appeals to female and male riders alike. This 145mm wide, 255mm long saddle brilliantly combines cushioned support with lightweight precision.
A microfiber cover, flex-tuned shell, and DNA padding cradle the sit bones while relieving pressure points. Titanium rails shave weight (218g) without sacrificing security.
Cutouts and channels enhance breathing and performance, while grooves anatomically contour to the shape of the rider.
Versatile, durable, and endlessly comfortable, the Koda Medium Titanium Black conquers diverse terrain from XC loops to bike packing adventures. No scenario proves too much for this adept all-rounder.
Field testing and real-world reviews resoundingly endorse Koda’s merits. “Perfect for long days in the saddle,” declares Outdoor Gear Lab. “Impressively cushioned and supportive,” reports BikeRadar. “Remarkably lightweight and breathable,” concurs Pinkbike.
With minimalist features ensuring minimal fuss and maximum bliss, only the most discerning would detect this saddle’s handcrafted highlights.
For the weight-weary, the Koda balances lightweight finesse with rugged dependability, slicing grams without sacrificing grit.
WTB prioritizes performance and endurance over flashy flourishes. Their dedication to innovation, quality, and the rider’s experience shapes every design.
The Koda Medium Titanium Black epitomizes this passion, with a performance-meets-comfort formula too compelling to refuse.
Versatile, lightweight, and endlessly comfortable, the WTB Koda Medium Titanium Black may just seduce even the most skeptical.
When every gram and mm matters, yet cushioned miles mean more, this is the saddle that delivers – and then some. Comfort, capability, and quality: with the Koda, you get all three.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Very comfortable
- Short length
Cons
- Only available in wider widths
4. Tioga Spyder Outland Hollow Saddle
Basis Specs
- Brand: Tioga
- Color: Cromo Black
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 13.05 x 8.25 x 3.2 inches
- Material: Composite
- Outer Material: Aluminum
- Bike Type: Road Bike
The Tioga Spyder Outland Hollow Saddle delivers lightweight, suspended comfort and versatile durability.
An innovative hollow chromoly rail and dual-density composite base cradle the sit bones, while a flexible webbed cover conforms to the rider’s shape.
This cover absorbs shock and creates a stabilized riding feel, enhanced by a removable silicone anti-slip pad for extra grip and cushioning security.
Though a single 125mm width, the Outland Hollow Saddle splendidly balances ana-tomical support and minimalist finesse, suiting a range of shapes and preferences.
For those accustomed to narrow saddles, the Tioga Spyder Outland Hollow excels, handling rough terrain and diverse riding styles with equal aplomb while meeting the highest EN safety standards.
Four colors – black, white, yellow or green – provide styling options, with weights as light as 190g (without pad) and 202g (with pad) ensuring effortless ascents.
Field testing has been awarded the Outland Hollow “Top Pick for Light Weight” honors from Outdoor Gear Lab, praising its “comfort and quality in a lightweight package.” Their dedication joins others in recognizing this saddle’s innovative and distinctive design.
With minimalist features enabling fuss-free bliss and titanium rails shaving grams without sacrifice, only the most discerning would note the handcrafted qualities of this high-performance comfort tool.
Versatile, durable, and 100% cushioned, the Tioga Spyder Outland Hollow elevates your experience without pretense.
In the Tioga Spyder Outland Hollow Saddle, form actualizes function in a collaboration too compelling to refuse. Exceptional capabilities, experienced insights: in this saddle, every mile is masterful.
Pros
- Suspended feel
- Surprisingly comfortable
- Very lightweight
- Unique design
Cons
- Only available in narrow width
5. SDG Components Bel-Air V3 Lux-Alloy Mountain Bike Saddle
Basis Specs
- Brand: SDG
- Color: Black/Purple
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 11.1 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches
- Material: Microfiber
- Outer Material: Foam
- Pad Type: Gel Pad
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
The SDG Components Bel-Air V3 Lux-Alloy saddle delivers performance, comfort, and style. Refining the proven Bel-Air profile, this saddle features updated technologies and aesthetics that redefine versatility.
A subtle rear rise provides stability on rough terrain while a free float comfort flex rail insert enables 4mm of forgiveness at the wings.
Hidden cut-outs maximize breathability and an ATMOSsealed construction eliminates bulky staples and bumpers, shaving weight without sacrificing security.
A flat-forward platform aids pedaling efficiency, deep peri-canal grooves continuous relief, and a wider nose enhance the climbing grip. Sonic welded edges protect without protrusion.
Lux-Alloy rails, 236g of lightweight durability, accommodate any riding agenda. At 260mm long by 140mm wide, this saddle suits agile builds and adventurous spirits alike.
Galactic and Fuel versions showcase metal flake-coated bases and logos, visually capturing the performance and style this saddle enables.
Performs as splendidly as it looks, the V3 Lux-Alloy enhances any build with versatile comfort and technical prowess.
Versatile, durable, lightweight, and stunning, the SDG Components Bel-Air V3Lux-Alloy performs as splendidly as it looks. Exceptional capabilities, experienced insights: with this saddle, every mile is masterful.
Pros
- Alloy version is very light
- Excellent technical riding shape
- Comfortable
- Impressively shock shrugging
Cons
- Steel version is heavy
6. WTB Koda Wide Steel Black Saddle
Basis Specs
- Brand: WTB
- Color: Steel / Black
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 10.04 x 5.91 x 2.72 inches
- Material: Steel
- Outer Material: Steel
- Pad Type: Gel Pad
The WTB Koda Wide Steel Black saddle delivers comfort and performance, crafted to suit both female and male riders. Developed with tester feedback, this saddle brilliantly balances cushioned support with lightweight durability.
A medium padding thickness offers all-day comfort, while an open center channel relieves pressure points. A slightly swooped tail provides stability on technical trails, complemented by a short nose preventing snags.
A flex-tuned shell dynamically adapts 155mm of rear harness and 5mm of flex at the wings, enabling efficiency and forgiveness.
ABR corners protect without protrusion, chromoly steel rails and a microfiber cover with DNA padding maintain shape through mileage.
At 150mm wide, 255mm long, and 310g, the Koda Wide Steel Black accommodates varied anatomies and builds. Ideal for XC, trail, enduro, or bike packing, this versatile saddle conquers terrain with equal aplomb.
Rugged yet graceful, durable yet dynamically responsive, the Koda Wide Steel Black melds performance and endurance. Decades of passion and progression inspire WTB designs, honed by pros yet suited for explorers.
Pros
- Short, wide nose
- Lightweight titanium rails
Cons
- Some may prefer a men’s or women’s specific saddle
7. Selle Italia, X-LR Superflow, MTB Saddle
Basis Specs
- Brand: Selle Italia
- Color: Black
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 13.5 x 8 x 2 inches
- Material: Fibra-Tek
- Outer Material: Microfiber
- Bike Type: Road Bike, Mountain Bike
The Selle Italia X-LR Superflow saddle is an innovative off-road seat designed for avid mountain bikers. It features a noticeably sloping front edge that provides enhanced freedom of movement and reduced pressure behind the perineum.
A sizable vertical air channel and double layers of the padding further improve comfort and stability under extended riding adventures.
Available in 125mm or 140mm widths, the Superflow saddle balances lightweight titanium rails with a carbon/nylon base for optimal performance.
An integrated rubber protective covering shields the seat from damage and impacts, shaving precious weight and bulk. The entire design weighs just 220g while delivering a superior ride feel at a price of $153
Engineered from the ground up for off-road cycling, the X-LR seat utilizes hollow manganese rails measuring 7mm in diameter. These rails help dampen vibrations transmitted up from the terrain.
Closed-cell padding grades softer towards the front nose section versus the high-density cushioning at the rear, allowing for more engaged climbing.
Wings covered in a rubber-like coating deflect impacts to maintain form, with a slightly convex shaping providing a narrower and shortened overall profile. More responsive and connected riding is the byproduct, perfect for navigating technical trails.
A highly contoured surface focuses a rider’s weight through a centralized location along the seat. The vertical air channel, broad yet deep, successfully vents moisture and heat for sustained comfort, even under the most arduous punishment.
In use, the Selle Italia X-LR Superflow saddle is rewarded as promised. Its reworked geometry and high-end yet lightweight components work in seamless harmony.
For off-road fanatics chasing their next big adventure, this seat delivers an experience bound to do the same.
Pros
- Useful scuff bumpers
- Surprisingly comfortable
- Easy to maneuver on
- Lightweight
Cons
- Premium price
- Limited cushioning won’t suit everyone
8. Spank Spike + 160 Saddles
Basis Specs
- Brand: Spank
- Color: Blue
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.85 x 7.2 x 3.05 inches
- Material: Synthetic
- Outer Material: Foam
- Pad Type: Waterproof Pad
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
The Spank Spike 160 enduro saddle is designed for advanced mountain biking performance. It features an aerodynamic yet supportive profile that optimizes power transfer and handling.
The saddle’s co-molded foam and synthetic microfiber construction provides exceptional durability and grip, while the hollow chromoly rails and injection-molded base guarantee lightness without compromising strength.
Weighing only 250g, the saddle realizes a compelling balance of lightweight feel and rugged stability.
The saddle’s flat, broad base and deep longitudinal channel create a stable platform for pedaling efficiency and shifting precision while reducing pressure points for enhanced comfort on technical descents.
Its firm, rooted feel inspires confidence rather than cushioning, catering to descenders prioritizing grip, control, and maneuverability.
Constructed of high-performance, high-abrasion materials, the Spank Spike 160 saddle delivers high-speed capability and all-day endurance. Its metal rails and molded base flex slightly under power, returning energy to enhance thrust, while color options provide visual distinction.
The saddle supports aggressive geometry and high-speed braking with a flat, secure profile and grippy microfiber cover. Its channel further reduces discomfort from pedal kickback at maximum effort.
Overall, the saddle realizes a compelling combination of lightweight, speed-inspired design and durable, Supportive construction for advanced riding.
Pros
- Efficient-feeling firmness
- Great price
- Easy to move around on
- Generous center channel
- Reinforced impact zones
Cons
- Doesn’t absorb much vibration
- Not the lightest
9. Ergon – SM Comp Ergonomic Comfort Bicycle Saddle
Basis Specs
- Brand: Ergon
- Color: Stealth/Steel
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 13.78 x 7.48 x 3.94 inches
- Material: Mirofibre
- Outer Material: Foam
- Pad Type: Gel Pad
- Bike Type: Mountain Bike
The Ergon SM Comp mountain bike saddle provides comfort and performance for various riding styles and terrain.
It has an ergonomically shaped profile tailored for male riders that reduces pressure on sensitive areas and allows unimpeded movement. Its flat design, slight rear raise, and deep channel enhance airflow and breathability.
Padding, including orthopedic foam and OrthoCell inserts, offers support and cushioning. Available in two widths to accommodate different sit bone spans, the saddle strikes a good balance of lightweights and affordability relative to other models.
Appealing to riders seeking an ergonomic saddle for all-mountain, trail, enduro, or downhill cycling, the Ergon SM Comp can handle punishing rides.
Though moderately priced, its features deliver performance and comfort for rugged adventures. The saddle’s male-contoured, pressure-relieving shape opens up possibilities on the trail. Combined, these attributes make it suitable for ambitious riding and thrilling descents.
Pros
- Flat design for freedom of movement
- Lots of different options
- Orthopedic foam padding has exemplary comfort properties
Cons
- 220lb max rider weight
- Flat design not for everyone
10. SQlab 611 Ergowave CrMo MTB Tech Saddle
Basis Specs
- Brand: SQlab
- Color: Black
- Material: Other
- Outer Material: Shell
- Pad Type: Gel Pad
- Bike Type: Road Bike, Mountain Bike
The SQlab 611 Ergowave CrMo MTB bike saddle provides an optimal off-road cycling experience. It features an innovative ERGOWAVE shape and a raised rear zone to ensure a secure seat and ideal pressure distribution across the body, even over rough terrains.
This design enhances the transfer of power to the pedals during riding. The saddle nose on the 611 models extends about 4 mm beyond that of the 612 version, yet remains just as flat with a maximum surface area, delivering superior pressure relief, particularly on prolonged technical ascents.
The padding incorporates specialized elements tailored for mountain biking, with superior cushioning qualities over the 612 model, rendering it exceptionally suitable for rugged off-road use.
The saddle is constructed with CrMo rails and lacks SQlab’s renowned active technology. The new 611 ERGOWAVE CrMo offers excellent value at a modest price point, providing very good performance for the money.
Due to its flexible properties, the saddle offers optimal comfort up to weights of 75 kg. Rider weights should not surpass 90 kg for safe use.
Pros
- Ergonomic comfort
- Lightweight
Cons
- none
Everything You Need to Know About the Best Mountain Bike Saddles
How much should I spend on a mountain bike saddle?
Determining an appropriate budget for a mountain bike saddle depends on your specific requirements and performance needs.
Entry-level saddles start around $30-$50, while high-end performance saddles may cost $400 or more.
What is the difference between a mountain bike saddle and a road saddle?
Mountain bike saddles differ substantially from road saddles in both design and construction.
Mountain bike saddles have a wider, shorter, and more cushioned seat to accommodate an upright and active riding position on rugged terrain.
They utilize heavier-duty, abrasion-resistant covers and frames that can withstand heavy impacts and exposure to dirt/debris.
In contrast, road saddles have a narrow, elongated seat for aerodynamics and a lightweight body suited to the precision and positioning of road cycling.
What is the most comfortable mountain bike saddle?
Maximizing saddle comfort depends on proper fit, support, and padding. Wider saddles with a tapered nose provide stability for heavier riders while still allowing freedom of movement. Suspension or gel inserts reduce pressure points.
Cutouts relieve perineal numbness for some cyclists. However, saddles should maintain proper pelvic support—excessive padding reduces power transfer and pedaling efficiency.
Should I choose a relief channel?
For pressure relief, a cutout saddle may reduce numbness for those sensitive to perineal compression. However, cutouts also decrease surface area and stability, impacting performance.
Ride position, padding preference, and terrain should be evaluated to determine if a cutout saddle suits your needs or provides an inferior riding experience.
Do mountain bike saddles need to be stronger?
Given the force dynamics of mountain biking, mountain bike saddles require rugged and durable construction.
Heavier-duty rails, strengthened noses, and inserts/pads designed for high impacts deliver secure support without damage or disproportionate weight/cost.
Lack of appropriate durability would compromise safety, comfort, and the lifespan of the saddle under the physical demands of mountain riding.
Conclusion
In summary, determine your budget, evaluate your riding needs, and choose a saddle with features and specifications optimized for mountain biking—not superficial attributes.
An ideal saddle enhances pleasure, performance, comfort or endurance—do not sacrifice any for visually appealing yet functionless aspects. With the right specs for your ability and terrain, you will find a saddle that delivers on all accounts.
