As an overweight person, it is sometimes a challenge to find the most comfortable bike seat. And if you have ever ridden in the wrong seat, you know that there are some VERY good reasons why you would want a more comfortable bike seat.

Being an overweight rider causes pressure in the perineum (the area between the anus and groin), which affects circulation and leads to potential health problems such as nerve damage, numbness and even impotency in men.

The bottom line?

Finding the right bike seat as a heavy rider goes beyond comfort and affects your health in various serious ways.

In this article, I give you my recommendations for most comfortable bike seats for overweight people. I also explain what exactly you are to look for in a bike seat to maximize comfort.

So let’s get right to it!

In a Rush? Here are Our Top Picks

Most Comfortable Bike Seats for Overweight Riders

1. Bikeroo Oversized Comfort Bike Seat: Best Overall

If you still struggle with occasional discomfort even after trying some of the recommended saddles, then it could be time to try this bike seat – a leading bicycle seat for heavy riders

Indeed, Bikeroo Oversized Comfort is our choice for best bike seat for overweight riders, and for good reason. It has long been rated as one of the most comfortable bike seats in the market today because of its extra padding coupled with a dual spring suspension.

It should, therefore, enable you to finally forget about pain and soreness whether you are using it as a stationary seat or as an outdoor padded bike seat.

The oversized bike seat is ergonomic meaning after the initial brief break-in period, it adapts perfectly to your body making for maximum enjoyment when riding.

It’s especially good for oversize riders because its width distributes pressure uniformly on the wider sitting area allowing you to enjoy your trips without back pain.

Its universal design makes it suitable for almost any bike out there- road city bikes, cruisers, fixed gear, mountain bikes, and touring.

More to this, and unlike some competitors, it’s super-easy to mount thanks to its standard rails mounting system and the universal saddle adapter.

Lastly, with it, you can even ride during a storm as it comes with a waterproof cover.

Features    

• Thick padding
• Dual spring suspension
• Extra wide ergonomic design
• Waterproof seat cover
• Universal seat adapter
• Standard rails

Pros

• The standard rails, the accompanying eBook, and universal adapter make It’s so easy to mount on any bike.
• The seat cover is water proof so riders can ride even during a storm without drenching.
• This oversized bike seat has heavy duty padding and the spring suspension.
• Its wider design enables it to share weight uniformly across the surface thus delivering great support for overweight riders.

Cons

• The springs may sometimes become a bit squeaky especially when pedaling aggressively.

Verdict

The thick and excessive soft foam padding plus the dual spring suspensions make this oversized saddle one of the best bicycle seat

Its ability to distribute pressure across the surface and to help avoid back pains is unmatched.

2. INBIKE Most Comfortable Bicycle Seat: Most Comfortable Bike Seat for Long Trips

Looking at the Inbike bicycle seat the first time, you can clearly see that this super wide bike seat was purpose-designed for a big man.

The construction and the material used make it much better to ride on and it should thus make butt pain a thing of the past.

First, we liked the front design- it’s narrower, just the way preferred by overweight guys because it minimizes friction especially whether out on a leisurely ride or a competition.

Then, the quality of the microfiber artificial leather used on the surface is up there with the best and again purposed to make the saddle special for big men and women- it’s not only wear resistant but also super-smooth and non-scratching.

We also love the high density foam padding on the inner side plus the dual springs…the two creates a superb buffer making it shock proof, stable, and enjoyable when riding over bumps or uneven terrain.

And if you tend to frequently embark on long, adventurous expeditions, the middle groove will come in handy as it improves air circulation and in releasing sweat.

Overall, this is an awesome option for owners of cruiser bikes who are fond of long distance riding and are tired of the persistent hip pain.

Features

• Microfiber artificial leather surface
• High-density foam
• Dual springs
• Middle groove
• Universal design

Pros

• The padding, duals springs, and narrow front make this seat super comfortable
• It’s easy to adjust so you can easily identify your most comfortable pose
• This saddle is very well-constructed from the top, the underside padding, and the groove- everything looks well planned.
• It performs as well as the high-end saddles but at a fraction of the cost.

Cons

• Considering that they’re plastic, the suspensions may not last for long

Verdict

The Inbike is bigger in and out, more comfortable, and very well-constructed.

It should deliver a different riding experience.

3. Zacro Gel Bike Saddle: Best Bike Seat for Big Guys

The Zacro Gel Bike Saddle a very functional saddle- way better than the hard seats that come with bikes.

Gel padded, extra thick and oversized, this saddle is primed to serve as the most comfortable mountain bike seat as it conforms to your body shape a lot better than other seats.

The PU material makes the saddle to look more elegant apart from enhancing its quality and is one of the few saddles that feel right without any “break in” period.

The highly-elastic foam is resilient and gives a better cycling feeling under pressure while its coil dual spring suspensions help smoothen out bumps delivering an unforgettable time regardless of the terrain.

Unlike the Inbike which is recommended for cruiser bikes, this is versatile and works with different model bikes.

And as expected for a universal saddle, it installs on standard seat posts with the installation process itself is a joy thanks to the provided Zacro wrench.

Features 

• Dual-density gel foam padding
• Soft and elastic
• Coil dual spring suspensions (carbon steel)
• Universal design
• Polyurethane(PU) material

Pros

• The saddle fits a bigger number of models and is super-easy to install.
• This bike saddle delivers admirable comfort to your back when on long rides.
• Despite being a huge improvement over stock seats, it’s affordably priced.
• This saddle doesn’t come imprinted with irritating marks or logos like most of its peers.

Cons

• The Zacro gel saddle isn’t waterproof.

Verdict

With soft but strong materials, the Zacro gel saddle provides the long-sought-after comfort to your back. The Coil dual spring suspensions also help smoother bumps and prevent you from getting sore.

4. Bell Comfort Bike Seat: Most Comfortable Bike Seat for Overweight Mountain Bike Riders

The biggest winner here is that this awesome Bell Comfort Bike Seat is lockable and so unlike the other 3 saddles, it’s going to be always on the bike and can’t be forgotten.

Even better, you no longer have the risk of the saddle being stolen.

Aside from that, it’s solid, sturdy and feels very cushy without being overly large as to look embarrassing.
The bike is unisex hence regularly mentioned in the same breath as the best bike saddle for overweight female.

And whatever your bike, the seat exceeds expectations with the elastomer suspension working in tandem with its padding and the leather material to ensure you don’t slide while riding.

The wide design allows free movement among your legs significantly boosting your pedaling efficiency while expertly absorbing the pressure exerted by the seat bones.

It adjusts easily so it should fit your body precisely, has a narrower front, and therefore doesn’t interfere with your high cadence pedaling.

Features 

• Extra wide
• Synthetic leather cover
• Elastomer suspension
• Clamp (included)
• Red light

Pros

• The synthetic leather cover is not only durable but also ensures that your butt will never hurt even if you ride a lot.
• By going on/off automatically, the red light makes you visible at night enhancing your safety when riding in busy highways.
• It dries up quickly after drenched, for example, during a storm.
• Good price

Cons

• Compared with the largest bike seat available, this seat isn’t that big in size and may, therefore, look smaller for some the biggest guys.

Verdict

This seat’s shape, larger surface, soft padding and suspension make it perfect for heavy riders.

It’s also sturdy as well as being lockable.

5. Sunlite Cloud-9 Cruiser Saddle: Best for Cruising

If you are looking for the most refined cruiser saddle, nothing is as practical as the Sunlite Cloud-9 Cruiser Saddle.

We like most things about this comfortable bike seat for overweight men and women.

For starters, the cruiser seat comes in a wide ergonomic shape to give you optimal comfort.

It promises to retain its shape while also promoting maximum relaxation. That’s thanks to its dual gel foam padding.

And to ensure that you ride smoothly on bumpy roads, the bike seat features chrome coil spring suspension.

Sunlite Cloud-9 promises to fit on any standard bike, owing to its universal fit. Plus, it has a decent airflow channel that promotes cool air circulation and riding comfort.

The concern is that the cushioning may feel extra soft for overweight riders who like moderate padding.

Features

• Ergonomic shape
• Dual-density gel foam padding
• Chrome coil spring suspension
• Universal fit
• Airflow channel

Pros

• Richly comfortable
• Matches standard bikes
• Breathable
• Absorbs shock
• Waterproof seat cover

Cons

• The cushioning may feel extra soft

Verdict

Comfort-wise, the Sunlite Cloud-9 Cruiser Saddle doesn’t disappoint. It’s the perfect all-around replacement bike seat for all genders.

6. Bikeroo Bike Seat for Women: Best Bike Seat for Overweight Women

Bikeroo doesn’t disappoint again when it comes to their new, most comfortable bike seat for overweight ladies. The Bikeroo Bike Seat for Women is everything plus-size women want in a saddle.

The seat has thick cushioning to feel extra comfortable. Bikeroo has included a dual-spring suspension to enable the bike seat to absorb shock when cycling off-road.

The saddle enjoys a wider design, which studies show is critical to lower perineal pressure. Its ergonomic shape relieves inter-thigh pressure, and it’s hollow at the center to facilitate cool air circulation.

This bicycle seat comes in an easy-to-mount universal fit to suit most standard bikes.

I only wish the color choices were not so limited.

Features

• Thick padding
• Dual spring suspension
• Ergonomic shape
• Universal fit
• Easy to mount

Pros

• Feels very comfortable
• Absorbs shock off-road
• Easy to fit
• Breathable

Cons

• Limited color choices

Verdict

The Bikeroo Most Comfortable Bike Seat has the shape and design of a perfect women’s bike seat. As a plus-size woman, the dual-spring suspension will come in handy to minimize discomfort. Especially if you are planning to ride off-road, this is a great option.

7. Brooks England B17 Bike Saddle: Best Handmade Saddle for Overweight Cyclists

When it comes to handmade bike seats, especially for cyclists, very few are as impressive as the Brooks England B17 Bike Saddle.

Hand-made in England, the Brooks England is built from the finest tanned leather to promote long-term use.

Banking on its chrome frame and steel rails, the bike seat can hold huge weights. It’s a great bicycle seat for, say, a 300 pound man who is also a cyclist.

We also enjoy the trendy, sporty look that makes it a perfect choice for those who are looking for a sleeker, customized feel to their saddle.

The seat has several air channels that facilitate natural ventilation. So, you get to feel cooler as you cycle long-distance.

The icing on the cake is the seat bag loop on its back for attaching your English-style biking tour bag. Moreover, it comes with a two-year extended warranty.

The downside is that the seat requires a more extended break-in period because of the leather construction. But once you get over that initial period of discomfort, which is normal, it will be well worth it.

And to help the process along, you might consider getting their proofride leather conditioner.

Features

• Tanned leather covering
• Strong chrome frame
• Natural ventilation
• Seat bag loop
• Ergonomic shape

Pros

• Comfortable once you break it in
• Strong construction
• Easy to mount
• Two-year extended warranty

Cons

• Longer break-in period

Verdict

The Brooks England B17 might have a more extended break-in period, but its extremely comfortable in the long run. The handmade seat is an ideal choice if you are planning on logging a ton of miles. Expect a 1000 mile or so break in period or so.

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The Asani Oversized Comfort Bike Seat comes in a perfect wide size to give you optimal comfort. If pure comfort is your goal, this is a great choice.

This cycling seat features dual spring suspension and has soft padding, making it perfect for back pain.

It comes in a universal fit, which makes it perfect for cruisers, tour bikes, mountain bikes, stationary bikes, among many others.

The Asani is one of the more comfortable bike seats for overweight riders and is simple to install, and you can do it tool-free. Moreover, it comes with a lifetime warranty.

There are a few issues with this bike seat we’ve found however. On higher speed it can be a little too “springy” and cause discomfort. Also, if you are night cycling, remember that this seat doesn’t feature an LED taillight. You would have to go with something like the Daway C99 for that option.

Features

• Extra-wide
• Premium material
• Thick padding
• Universal fit
• Tool-free installation

Pros

• Lifetime warranty
• Simple to install
• Compatible with most bike seat posts
• Durable construction
• Feels very comfortable
• Great for back pain

Cons

• Lacks an LED tail light
• Can be a little too “springy” at high speeds
• Can be creaky over time

Verdict

Overall, the Asani Oversized Comfort Bike Seat is perfect for overweight riders with back problems. It’s soft-padded and very, very wide. The metal springs, however, do lend itself to creaking over time, so keep this in mind. But if pure comfort is your goal, we’d give this saddle a shot.

8. Fizik Aliante Gamma Cycling Saddle: Best Racing Saddle

Very few road racing saddles are as ergonomic as the Fizik Aliante Gamma Cycling Saddle. Fizik has a well-earned reputation in the industry for both comfort and durability, so in general you will get a quality saddle with a Fizik.

As with any Fizik, you should do the test described in this video to find out what animal you are. This particular model is for “bulls”, or people who are less flexible.

Now that you’ve done the test, you’ll know if this Italian handmade saddle is right for you.

We like the narrow nose, which reduce friction with your thighs and increases comfort. Also, its shell is carbon-reinforced nylon, which maintains its ergonomic shape.

This cycling saddle is only 0.57 pounds, thus relatively lightweight to suit road racing. However if weight is super important to you, the Aliante R1 model is newer and lighter at 0.40 pounds.

And as we’ve said before, the Fizik Aliante Gamma is handmade for cyclists with a rigid spine and those with an inflexible low back. In other words, “bulls” according to their system.

If you are extremely flexible, we suggest going with the Arione R1.

The primary issue with this road saddle is it may feel slightly firm. And also make sure you are fine with the black and white design.

Features

• Lightweight design
• Braided-carbon rails
• Carbon-reinforced nylon shell
• Narrow nose

Pros

• Great for racing
• Lightweight
• Strong construction
• Durable

Cons

• Feels slightly firm
• Black and white design not right for everyone

Verdict

The Fizik Aliante Gamma Cycling Saddle is lightweight and a great option for less flexible riders. The best part besides its robust construction if that this is a versatile saddle. If you ride in more of an upright position and are looking for a higher end saddle, Fizik is always a great choice.

Compared to other Fizik models, this will come with more padding. So for bigger guys and gals, this is a solid saddle.

What Makes a Bicycle Seat Comfortable?

There are several variable that affect whether a bike seat is comfortable, including cushioning and width of the saddle. We’ll discuss all of the main aspects of the best bike seat for overweight riders below.

But if you’re in a rush, here is a great primer on bicycle seats and what makes them comfortable.

Cushioning

We all know that cushioning is usually associated with comfort. And with bikes it’s no different.

In the bike world, there are two main types of cushioning: gel and foam. The type of gel you prefer will depend on the type of riding you do.

Gel cushioning is generally preferred by more casual riders. They conform a little better to your body, although they won’t last as long as foam.

Foam cushioning is preferred by more serious riders. It will tend to give you more support, is firmer and is ideal if you are going on longer rides.

And we can’t forget the last option, which is no cushion at all!

Although this seems extremely uncomfortable, many riders actually prefer no cushion, especially since the seats tend not to get as hot. If you live in an especially hot climate, you may want to consider no cushion.

Saddle Width

Saddle with is super critical because a saddle too wide (or narrow) is going to cause you serious discomfort.

The most important thing is to get the proper saddle width for YOUR body. Specifically you want to measure your sit bone, technically known as ischial tuberosities.

Luckily this is a pretty straightforward process and most bike shops will be able to measure your seat bone width.

Once you have your seat bone measurements, you can always look at the spec pages for bike saddles to get an idea of if the seat is right for you. But remember, saddles come in all different curvatures and levels of padding, so there is nothing that beats actually sitting on the saddle before purchasing.

Saddle Shape

Generally, the way you ride and your individual athleticism and flexibility will determine the best shape saddle for you. For instance, a flat saddle mostly suits riders who make minimal movements (in their upper body) when cycling.

On the other hand, a saddle which is lightly curved suits intermediate riders, while round saddles are recommended for cyclists who move their torsos a lot while riding.

Saddle Covers

Saddles covers are what you will be feeling against your bottom while you ride. So this is obviously something you should give at least some thought to.

Saddles covers will generally come in three different materials: synthetic, leather, and cotton. Most bikes will have synthetic covers, and this is usually fine if you are a casual rider.

PVC leather covers are the premium option, and although it will take some time to break in, over time they tend to provide more comfort. The main downside is that leather covers are not waterproof, so if you are in a rainy climate this might not be the best option.

And finally cotton covers. In terms of breaking these seat covers in, it is right in the middle between synthetic (no break in period) and leather (long break in period). Cotton covers are soft and will offer you a relatively comfortable ride.

Saddle/Seat Pads

For people who need a little extra cushion, saddle pads are a great option. They go right over your seat and add additional cushioning. Saddle pads also make the seat slightly wider and more comfortable in most cases.

We especially recommend you use a saddle pad if you’ve had a history of lower back injuries.

Riding Correctly for a Comfortable Ride

We don’t want you to think that having the right bike seat is the only thing that matters as an overweight rider. Although the type of bicycle seat you get is critical for comfort, how you ride your bike is arguably just as important.

In this vein, we always recommend that you talk to a fitting professional in general. It will be one of the better $100 or $200 dollars you spend.

After you get fitted, make sure you ride back on your seat towards the more cushiony part. Many riders make the mistake of ridging too far up in the skinnier part of their saddle, leading to discomfort.

Even if you do everything right, long days (in the saddle) and bumps are can cause what’s called perineum compression. The perineum is the area between the groin and anus, and it is a highly vulnerable area when riding.

Perineum compression can cause nerve damage, swelling, and a lot of pain, so it’s important to prevent this if possible.

Besides a nice and comfortable seat, some things you can do to alleviate perineum compression are:

• Stand up for a few seconds on your pedals each 10 minutes.
• Go for a full-suspension bike (and of course, the most comfortable mountain bike seat) or hunt for a suspension seatpost.
• Stand slightly when negotiating bumps, effectively making your legs shock absorbers.
• Switch to the best recumbent bike.

Types of Bike Seats for Heavy Riders

There are various types of saddles to choose from, each based on a different style of riding. What is the right bike seat for you depends on what kind of bike riding you prefer.

That being said, here are the most common types of bike seats.

Cruiser Saddles

Cruiser saddles are known for their generous cushioning and considerable support.

Their upright handlebars (which make them so comfortable) ensure that most of your weight falls directly on the typically large bike seat.

Another advantage is that cruising doesn’t demand aggressive pedaling meaning that with the additional support, these heavily padded saddles remains comfortable.

Here is my favorite cruiser saddle for overweight riders: Sunlite Cloud-9 Cruiser Saddle

Comfort Saddles

Comfort saddles are the other top bike seats.

They also have lots of padding and memory foam in addition to being designed to facilitate easy pedaling.

Comfort saddles are the best for long distance tours and are great in absorbing shock and vibrations common in rough roads.

This is my recommendation: Bikeroo Most Comfortable Bike Seat for Women

Racing Saddles

Racing saddles have a “sleeker” design and are made to permit full movement and eliminate chafing.

They shift you forward such that more of your weight is on your hands (and feet) and not on the seat.

We even have racing saddles purposely developed to protect your reproductive organs!

In my opinion, Fizik is the saddle of choose if you are a racer. My favorite? The Fizik Road Bicycle Saddle

If you want more great information on saddles and how to find the right one, take a look at this video.

Tips on Finding the Most Comfortable Bike Seat for Overweight Riders

Test Ride

No doubt, nothing beats test riding with all your candidates for the best bike seat.

The best part is that many stores will have options closer to what you’re looking for even if not the exact model so try them.

Remember to vary positions, speed, and try hitting some bumps to get a feel of what to expect.

If you’re tipping the scales at almost 500 pounds, these are some bikes that can handle 500 lbs to go along with your saddle.

Measure your Saddle Width

Another important consideration is the correct saddle width. I’ve mentioned before that saddle width is dependent on your “seat bone”

By and large, women have wider bottoms than men who have their seat bones positioned much closer together, which is why women’s saddles are on the whole a bit wider than men’s.

While most bike shops will be able to measure your seat bones, you can also get a pretty accurate measure yourself. Here is great video on how to measure your sit bone at home:

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FAQs

How Do I Choose A Bike Seat if I’m Overweight?

You have to factor in several things when choosing a bike seat. Here are a few ground rules:

• Comfort comes first. So, the seat should have ample padding and shock-absorption and should be of the correct width.
• For added comfort you can look for a high density memory foam seat. Often found on mattresses, high density memory foam may be the best option if you are an overweight rider.
• Ventilation is paramount. So, look for a breathable seat to cool your butt area when things overheat due to friction.
• The covering should be water-resistant, scratch-resistant, stain-proof, and tear-resistant.
• The rails and the shell should be strong to maintain the seat’s shape.
• Additionally, consider things like saddle shape, cut-out, and cost.

Why Is My Bike Seat Uncomfortable?

If you feel uncomfortable shortly after you start cycling, the chances are that your saddle or seat post is misaligned.

But still, it could be that the saddle doesn’t fit or that its design is just off. In either case, the saddle is wrong, and so you should consider changing it.

How Do I Stop My Bike Seat From Hurting?

You can stop your bike seat from hurting using these tips:

• Look for a more seat cover to use on your current bike
• Replace your existing seat cover with a more comfortable option
• Wear biking shorts to improve your butt comfort
• Stand up periodically when you cycle
• Use emollient cream to soothe the hurting area
• Engage your core when riding
• Consider a bike seat with memory foam

Is A Wider Saddle Better?

Wider seats offer the most comfort in most cases. But always get fitted so you know your seat bone width, and hence, the ideal seat width for your individual body.

Excessively wide saddles, especially on the saddle’s nose area, might cause your thighs to rub against it, resulting in friction and discomfort.

How Wide Should My Bike Saddle Be?

Generally, wider seats are more comfortable than narrow ones. However, the width shouldn’t be too extensive.

In this case, the wisest approach is to add 2 cm to your seat bones’ spacing. Doing so protects you from having to sit on the edges of the metal frame.

Recap

Because of the excess pressure and weight, heavy riders are frequently forced to replace their bike seats. This is why it’s so important to do research on the most comfortable bike seat for overweight riders.

As an overweight rider, you generally want soft padding, a wide seat, and spring suspensions. But again, every body is different and getting fitted is always the best option.

And finally, make sure you test out different saddles in person if at all possible. Nothing beats actually feeling what is the most comfortable for your particular body.