The 5 Best Bike Saddles for Triathlons

1. ISM PN 1/1.1 Series: Noseless Road Bike Saddle for Optimal Leg Clearance

Pain-free, pressure-relieving comfort for long rides.

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Highly rated
• Comfort
• Saddle quality
• Pressure relief
• Ride quality
• Padding
• Value for money
• Craftsmanship

Some controversy about
• Fit

Experience unparalleled comfort and performance with the ISM PN 1 & 1.1 Series narrow road bicycle seat. This patented noseless design (a key feature differentiating it from traditional saddles), ideal for men and women, maximizes blood flow and eliminates numbness, crucial for long rides. Its 110mm width provides supreme leg clearance, perfect for road, triathlon, time trial, and gravel biking. The PN 1.1 boasts upgraded 40-series padding compared to the PN 1.0, ensuring a plusher ride, especially beneficial for thin triathlon shorts. With a 275mm length and durable satin steel rails, this versatile seat (available in various models like PN 3.1 and PN 4.0) promises a superior riding experience. While an acclimation period is recommended, the long-term comfort and performance benefits are undeniable.

The ISM saddle delivers a surprisingly comfortable ride, even on long distances and intense training sessions, as many users attest. Its split nose design, while initially unusual, effectively alleviates pressure on sensitive areas, a key advantage praised by triathletes and road cyclists alike. Users report significant improvements in comfort compared to traditional saddles, minimizing chafing and saddle sores. The lightweight construction barely affects the overall bike weight, while the durable build quality ensures long-lasting performance. While some users found the narrow design initially unconventional, the saddle's adjustability allows for customization to achieve a perfect fit, and the positive feedback from users with narrower hips and smaller frames suggests that the ISM saddle is a top choice for achieving optimal comfort and pressure relief for certain body types. The ISM saddle's effectiveness in preventing discomfort is further highlighted by its ability to address issues like UTIs often associated with prolonged cycling. Ultimately, though individual preferences vary, this saddle offers a solid, high-quality solution for those seeking enhanced comfort and performance during their rides.

2. Transiro Aeris: Lightweight Triathlon Saddle for Long Distances

About 159.99 USD

Introducing the Transiro Aeris Long Distance Triathlon Bike Saddle, a lightweight performance marvel weighing just 212g. Designed for the aerodynamic time-trial position, the Aeris boasts a split nose for unparalleled pressure relief during extended rides, maintaining crucial support and balance. Its R3 construction combines a carbon-reinforced nylon shell with a high strength-to-weight ratio Kium hollow rail for optimal performance. An optional integrated hydration mount allows for convenient water bottle carriage, making it perfect for long-distance triathlon competitions. Experience superior comfort and efficiency with the Transiro Aeris.

3. AE Saddle

Pain-free cycling, even on long, tough rides.

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Highly rated
• Value for money
• Pressure relief
• Design
• Build quality
• Prostate health
• Saddle quality

Some controversy about
• Comfort
• Pad angle

Experience unparalleled comfort on long rides with the AE Saddle, the prostate-friendly bicycle seat designed for ultimate comfort. Unlike traditional saddles, the AE Saddle's innovative design eliminates pressure on your groin area, making it the ideal choice for cyclists seeking a soft, supportive seat. Its superior cushioning ensures a pain-free experience, even during extended journeys. Internationally recognized for its comfort, the AE Saddle offers a superior riding experience, transforming your cycling adventures. Enjoy the freedom to ride further and longer, with the AE Saddle's ergonomic design prioritizing your well-being.

The Aeroelastic AE saddle is a game-changer for cyclists, especially those experiencing prostate discomfort or perineum pressure. Multiple users report significant relief from pain after switching to this saddle, even after long rides (50+ miles) and aggressive mountain biking. The unique design, featuring a subtly-shaped "nose" and strategically-placed pads (different from the SQ Lab 600 which some find causes thigh rubbing), eliminates perineum contact completely. While some initial adjustment is needed to find the optimal seating position and learn a slightly different riding style (utilizing sit bones for weight distribution instead of the perineum), users overwhelmingly praise the comfort and pain relief experienced. The durable construction, with a quality plastic frame and cromo rails, ensures longevity. Although the lack of pad adjustability might not suit every rider's sit bone anatomy, the Aeroelastic AE's superior comfort and pain-relieving qualities make it a highly recommended option for those seeking a solution to common cycling discomforts, far surpassing other noseless saddles like Hobson, ISM, and Wing in its effectiveness for those who had prostate issues. Many riders report they would have given up cycling without this saddle, noting the improved comfort even after thousands of miles of use.

4. ISM PL Series: Noseless Bike Saddle for Comfort & Blood Flow

Ultimate comfort, ending numbness, even on epic rides.

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Highly rated
• Comfort
• Design
• Speed
• Firmness

Some controversy about
• Weight
• Adjustment ability
• Nose width
• Quality

Experience unparalleled comfort with the ISM PL Series noseless bike seat, designed for optimized blood flow and eliminating numbness. This unisex saddle, available in various sizes like the popular 275mm x 135mm PL 1.1, features a patented noseless design ideal for road, mountain, gravel, and triathlon bikes. The ergonomic shape and high-quality 40-series foam ensure comfort on even the longest rides, promoting fore-aft movement across diverse terrains. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a weekend warrior, the ISM PL Series, with its wide range of models including the PR 3.0 and PN 1.1, offers superior comfort and performance, maximizing your riding experience.

The ISM Adamo saddle, a unique and innovative design, consistently delivers exceptional comfort, particularly during long rides and in the aero position. Users praise its ability to eliminate numbness and saddle sores, a significant improvement over traditional saddles from brands like Brooks and Specialized. While some initial adjustment is needed to find the optimal position (using a setback seatpost may be necessary), the open nose design and generous length allow for easy adjustments on the fly, enhancing comfort and blood circulation. Although some users noted a slight learning curve related to cornering and an initially unfamiliar wider nose, the overall comfort far outweighs these minor drawbacks. The saddle's firm padding, while initially feeling hard, conforms comfortably after a short warm-up period. Many riders find it a game-changer for posture, eliminating back pain often associated with lengthy cycling sessions. While the weight might be a concern for some, the lasting comfort and reduced discomfort make the ISM Adamo a top choice for those seeking superior performance and prolonged comfort on their bikes (especially EC90 carbon seat posts). Note: While most experiences are positive, occasional quality control issues have been reported.

5. Comfort Series Noseless Bike Saddle: Wide, Thick Seat for Upright Riders

Pain-free cycling, finally! No more numb behind.

About 119.88 USD

Highly rated
• Saddle quality
• Functionality
• Pressure
• Build quality
• Rideability

Some controversy about
• Comfort
• Firmness
• Size

The ISM Comfort Series Noseless Bike Saddle, specifically the Touring model, is a game-changer for upright riders. Its wide (195mm) and thick design, coupled with the patented noseless anatomic relief, eliminates numbness and discomfort often associated with traditional saddles. Perfect for hybrid, police, commuter, and beach cruiser bikes, its 175mm length and sloped front facilitate effortless mounting and dismounting—a key feature appreciated by frequent riders and law enforcement. Trusted by police departments nationwide for its all-day comfort, the ISM Touring provides an unparalleled riding experience, making it ideal for long commutes or leisurely cruises.

The ISM saddle has revolutionized my cycling experience! Suffering from a bladder and urethra condition, I found traditional saddles unbearable. Other noseless saddles proved cumbersome and unstable, but the ISM, despite its initially comically small "Doll's Toilet" appearance (my spouse's words!), is a revelation. Its compact design, unlike oversized alternatives, allows for a secure and comfortable "hugging" sensation without the pressure points of a traditional nose. The firm yet comfortable padding (even without needing extra cushioning), combined with easy installation and adjustable tilt, ensures a personalized fit. Unlike other brands whose coated clamp bars offer no traction, the ISM's secure clamping mechanism guarantees stability and safety. This saddle's superior design eliminates numbness and pain, even on longer rides (though my experience is still limited). For those with sensitivity issues or seeking unparalleled comfort, the ISM, with its various models like the Metro, Urbaine, and Berkeley, offering differing widths (205mm-250mm) and lengths (220mm-235mm), is a game-changer. The initial adjustment period is minor, yielding incredible comfort and making cycling enjoyable again. The added security of printed maximum bar positions further enhances safety. While some users found it too narrow for their build, many others, including those with medical conditions, experienced immense relief and improved comfort. I'm beyond pleased!