How to Prevent Saddle Sores on a Bicycle

Comfort comes close a second to safety when cycling, and one common dilemma is saddle sores. Let’s face it: discomfort ‘down there’ can make every mile feel twice as long.

The good news is that you can prevent this or at least reduce the incidence and severity with the right saddle and a few simple measures. What you need to know is right here.

How to Stop Cycling Saddle Pain

Saddle sores are almost inevitable for most cyclists and can vary from person to person. Generally speaking, they’re, at best, a minor inconvenience—but at worst, they might need medical attention. Either way, the best approach is to prevent them altogether, which means:

Get your adult bike properly fitted

It’s a general rule for every cyclist to ride a bike that fits. In the case of preventing saddle soreness, the saddle should be at the right height, and leg length discrepancies should be addressed if needed.

Let’s start with your saddle: sit on the bike with your heel resting on the pedal at its lowest point. Your leg should be straight without locking your knee. When you pedal, there should be a slight bend in your knee at the bottom of the stroke.

Next, check for leg length discrepancies: watch how your hips move as you ride. If they rock side to side to reach the pedals, the saddle might be too high, or there could be a leg length difference.

We recommend visiting a local bike shop for a proper fitting if you’re unsure about your setup. Experts can help fine-tune everything.

Change to the saddle that’s right for you

Sometimes, your bike might fit perfectly, but the saddle just doesn’t do it. Whether it’s an existing model or a brand-new one, you can replace it, and it’s definitely worth doing if it’s causing discomfort.

If you think more padding means a comfortable ride, well, that’s not always the case—and the same goes for a wide saddle. So, don’t just rely on the visual cushioning effect or size when choosing one. It needs to suit your body type. A good saddle should:

• Be comfortable, aligning with your sit bones. A good example is this Sprung Saddle, which is stitched, padded, and made from embossed vegan leather, making it super comfy to sit on.

• Allows space for sensitive soft tissues. This refers to the parts of your body that are more sensitive and can get irritated if there’s too much pressure on them.

• Provide enough room for your legs to move freely without chafing.

Again, it’s a good idea to get advice or a fitting from a professional. They can help you figure out the right amount of padding, material, shape, and positioning for you. You might also be asked to try different types, which can be really helpful.

Reduce what causes friction and bacteria build-up

It’s better to have prevention measures than to deal with consequences later on. Applying cream on your inner thighs and groin area works like magic in reducing chafing. Find one that suits your skin type so you don’t end up with any allergic reactions, rashes, or irritation. Consider a chamois cream or petrolatum like Vaseline.

Note: This is not medical advice. If you have concerns or ongoing issues, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider.

Investing in quality bike clothing always pays off; they’ll stay in place much better while you’re riding. Go for seamless cycling or triathlon shorts with a well-cushioned chamois. And skip the extra underwear, especially cotton. It traps moisture and makes skin irritation and soreness more likely.

Hygiene also plays a role. Always wear clean cycling shorts and take them off straight after your ride. Have a shower as soon as you can, and wash your shorts with an antibacterial soap or cleanser to reduce bacteria load.

When to Get Saddle Sores Medical Treatment

Minor chafing (a mild, stinging or itching sensation on the skin) usually doesn’t need medical attention. However, if your saddle sores aren’t healing within a few days and/or they’re open with signs of infection, like pus or fever, you should see a doctor straight away.

A doctor may prescribe antibiotics, including oral medication and topical ointments, to treat the lesions. You’ll also likely be advised to stay off your bike for a few days until the soreness has completely gone.

May the tips above help you avoid such serious situations. Again, if you have concerns, skip your ride and consult your general practitioner (GP).