Marshall provides sage advice on training, biking and living. Check back regularly for the latest on Marshall's mind, or email a question to: info@krebscycleclub.com.
Saddle Sores
|
I haven't had a saddle sore for years...until last week. I was trying out a new saddle and a spanky pair of new shorts. An hour into a two hour ride I knew my butt was in trouble.......
Saddle sores can happen to any rider, not just novices. The main cause is neglecting to use proper fitting equipment, and proper hygiene. So here are some tips.
Dress Right: Wear shorts with a good quality natural or synthetic chamois liner that fits your anatomy. Don't wear underwear while riding.
Keep Clean: Wash your crotch and your shorts after every ride. Two pairs of shorts make this easier. Dry your shorts inside out. If you can, dry them in the sun.
UV kills bacteria. After a ride change as soon as possible and wear loose fitting after ride clothes. This helps dry out those sensitive areas. Don't walk around in sweat filled shorts.
Check your saddle: Does it fit your anatomy (butt)? Are there 'hot spots'? Is the nose tilted too far up or down? You may need a saddle that fits better if saddle sores continue to develop
and you've done all the other things. Buy a good quality saddle without too much cushy padding. The saddle should first, fit your butt bones. It should be supportive without being too hard and
flexible enough to absorb some motion.
Ride smart: stand up slightly for bumps like railway tracks to avoid bruising. On a long ride pedal 'out of the saddle' every 20 minutes or so.
If you do get saddle sores wash the area with a quality soap, antibacterial if available. Keep your crotch as dry as possible (loose fitting pants) after and between rides. Some creams will actually
extend the 'life' of the sore so use good anti-bacterial ointments if possible. Don't apply alcohol as it may cause the skin to dry too much and cause more irritation.
MCC
|
 |
Does your saddle feel as hard as a rock? |
Tracy Hall at the Bare Bones Duathlon 2003