When it comes to indoor and outdoor cycling, choosing the right saddle is key to avoid discomfort, improve performance and enjoy your workout. There are several types of bicycle saddles, which vary depending on the shape and materials they are made of. The choice between one or another will depend on factors such as the modality you practice, your anatomy and frequency of use. We explain what they are so you can improve your cycling experience!
Types of bicycle saddle
There are many types of bicycle saddles, so it is possible to classify them in various ways. For example, depending on the brands. However, one of the most popular is according to the type of cycling you are going to practice, in which case we can distinguish the following models with these characteristics:
- Road bike saddle: narrow and elongated, ideal for maintaining an aerodynamic position.
- Mountain bike saddle: more padded, designed to absorb impacts and offer greater comfort on irregular routes.
- Urban bicycle saddle: wider and more comfortable, designed for short journeys.
- Touring bicycle saddle: also known as long-distance saddles, as they are wider and have a greater amount of padded material to improve comfort.
- Triathlon bike saddle: or test saddles. They are shorter and have a rounded tip. Their function is to allow cyclists to maintain the aerodynamic position for long periods of time.
In addition to these, we can also find noseless saddles, which further reduce pressure on the perineal area and can be useful for people with specific ailments; or saddles designed specifically for indoor cycling. These models combine features of road and mountain saddles, seeking a balance between comfort and performance, as indoor workouts tend to be more static and prolonged. Of course, for those who train at home, whether on an indoor cycling bike or using their bike on a cycling trainer, choosing a good saddle is essential. In prolonged sessions, an inadequate saddle can lead to numbness, chafing or even injury. Good padding is essential, as is good ventilation to prevent the accumulation of sweat. In short, the final choice will depend on the type of activity, but also on personal feelings: it is best to try different models before deciding on one.
Differences between women’s and men’s bicycle saddles

Although in theory it is possible to use any saddle, regardless of sex, it is true that we can find differences in the different types of bicycle saddles between women and men. These are the most important characteristics.
Women’s bicycle saddle: outstanding features
The women’s bicycle saddle is designed with the female anatomy in mind. Women tend to have a wider pelvis, which implies a greater distance between the ischia. A good saddle, in these cases, is usually:
- Wider at the rear.
- With additional padding in key areas.
- With ergonomic design adapted to the angle of inclination of the trunk.
- In many cases, it includes a channel or groove to reduce pressure.
If you frequently train on rollers, choosing the right saddle will prevent discomfort and help you maintain correct posture throughout your indoor session.
Men’s bike saddle: What is it like?
Men’s bike saddles are usually narrower and more elongated, as the male bone structure requires less support surface. However, this does not mean less comfort. A good men’s saddle includes:
- Channels to relieve pressure on the perineal area.
- A design that allows for efficient pedaling.
- Moderate padding for a balance between performance and comfort.
As with the women’s saddle, using the right saddle for indoor cycling is key to training without discomfort.
What is the prostate bike saddle like?
The prostate bike saddle, also known as prostate bike saddle or anti-prostate bike saddle, is designed to relieve pressure on the perineal area. It is ideal for men who suffer from prostate-related discomfort or problems or simply want to prevent them. These usually have the following features:
- Central groove or channel.
- Padding in lateral support areas.
- Anatomical design that distributes the weight in a balanced way.
This type of saddle is highly recommended for indoor training, since sessions on rollers or stationary bikes generate continuous pressure in the same area. Choosing one of these models can significantly improve comfort and long-term health.
Benefits of using a bike saddle adapted to your anatomy
Choosing a bike saddle that fits your body has numerous benefits, whether you train outdoors or at home. In the case of indoor cycling, where there is not as much variation in posture or natural rest due to changes in terrain, an unsuitable saddle can be synonymous with discomfort and fatigue. Using an anatomical saddle (tailored to you) will provide multiple benefits, especially during long sessions. For example, it reduces pressure on the perineal area, preventing common discomforts such as numbness or chronic pain. It will also significantly improve comfort during long workouts, allowing cyclists to focus on their performance without distractions. An ergonomic design, on the other hand, promotes a more natural posture on the bike and optimizes pedaling efficiency, reducing the risk of injury and improving the overall user experience, both when training with rollers and on smart bikes.