2014 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide: Saddles

The 2014 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide magazine is out on newsstands now (and check out the digital version), and we’re giving you a sneak peek right here. Check out the saddles from the guide here and check back to Triathlete.com for more Buyer’s Guide content.

Bontrager Hilo XXX Carbon

$280, Bontrager.com
The draw: Versatility
Merge the most important features of an ISM saddle with a road saddle and you get the Hilo. It features a relatively narrow central cutout spanning the entire saddle and dense yet conforming padding for comfort and pelvic support. Riders of varying shapes and sizes were comfortable on this saddle in a variety of positions. (Slender female testers with narrow frames particularly liked it.) The shape works well while riding in an aero position as well as while sitting up with hands on the bullhorns.

Fizik has created its first true tri-specific saddle. The deep pressure relief groove at the tip of the truncated nose makes it feel similar to other noseless saddles in the aero position. Both male and female testers found this saddle comfortable, but some said the nose was a bit too short. Be sure to set this saddle up level (or close to it) to minimize slipping. Its integrated water bottle mounting system is an effective way to carry hydration and other essentials.

The ISM Adamo Attack is still one of the best for triathletes of all abilities. The Attack builds on ISM’s successful two-tong shape with a more slender nose to distribute weight over the pelvic bones without rubbing the thighs. Its long nose also allows for fore-aft adjustment when riding. Some have found the Attack to provide slightly less pelvic stability than the wider offerings from ISM. As with all saddles, take advantage of the demo programs offered by ISM or your favorite local shop to find your match.

Dash Cycles Aero Post Combo

$1,000, Dashcycles.com
The draw: Elegant design

This tiny carbon manufacturer has made a name creating minimalist, lightweight and elegant cycling gear. Dash’s integrated saddle and seatpost combination lives up to this reputation. It is one of the most innovative saddles we have seen. The seatpost (available for many popular high-end triathlon bikes) features a user-friendly saddle positioning adjustment system. Testers of both genders found that the saddle effectively lifts pressure from the most sensitive parts despite the minimal cushioning.

Prologo Evo Nago Tri 40

$159, Prologotouch.com
The draw: Traditional saddle shape

This is a traditional time trial saddle that distributes pressure over the center of the rider’s underside with a wide and cushioned nose. The triathlon market may have turned away from traditional saddles over the past few years, but for those who still prefer this old-school style, the Nago Tri 40 is a great option. The saddle features unique grippers, which testers found reduced sliding and weren’t bothersome in any way.