Brooks England
Brooks England has been handcrafting leather saddles in the UK since 1866, and its saddles remain a favorite among touring, commuting, and classic-styled bike riders for the way the leather molds to a rider's shape over time. How does a leather Brooks saddle become more comfortable over time? A genuine leather Brooks saddle gradually flexes and molds to your specific sit bone shape and riding style with use, a process often called "breaking in" that leaves many long-term riders unwilling to switch to any other saddle. Do Brooks saddles require special maintenance? Yes, leather Brooks saddles benefit from occasional leather conditioning treatment (such as Brooks' own Proofide) to keep the leather supple and weather-resistant, and should be kept dry when possible, though light rain exposure is generally fine with proper care.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to break in a Brooks leather saddle?
- Most riders notice the leather beginning to mold to their shape within a few hundred miles, though full break-in can take longer depending on riding frequency and conditions.
- Do Brooks leather saddles need special care?
- Yes, Brooks recommends periodic conditioning treatment to keep the leather supple, and it's best to avoid prolonged rain exposure and dry the saddle if it does get wet.
- Are Brooks saddles good for touring and commuting?
- Yes, Brooks saddles have a long history with touring and commuting riders specifically because the leather molds to individual riders over time, offering long-term comfort on a saddle you'll use for years.