Bicycle saddles were originally covered in leather because plastics had not yet been invented. Most modern saddles are, nowadays, made from composite (man-made) materials, either unpadded or padded with a gel for comfort. Traditionalistic cyclists' tend to still favour leather, using saddle-soap to keep the leather supple and waterproof.
Some alternative products to Brooks Proofide for maintaining and conditioning leather bicycle saddles include beeswax-based leather conditioners, mink oil, and saddle soap.
The demand for saddles made from leather later declined with the advent of the industrial era
leather
Leather bicycle saddles offer benefits such as durability, comfort, and breathability compared to other materials. They mold to the rider's shape over time, providing a personalized fit and reducing pressure points. Leather saddles are also known for their classic look and can last for many years with proper care.
Circle P saddles are made by Winntec and are made in Austraila. They are mostly synthetic as are the Winntec line and are lighter weight that regular all leather saddles.
Mostly leather from cattle, metal parts are usually steel.
cowboys and guachos
These days, it usually isn't. Usually it's a plastic pan, then a thin layer of padding, then - maybe - a thin layer of leather as the top surface. Although it might well be synthetic. Only a few saddles - mostly Brooks - are leather through and through. The claimed benefit is that leather will shape itself just a suitable amount after the shape of your butt.
These days, it usually isn't. Usually it's a plastic pan, then a thin layer of padding, then - maybe - a thin layer of leather as the top surface. Although it might well be synthetic. Only a few saddles - mostly Brooks - are leather through and through. The claimed benefit is that leather will shape itself just a suitable amount after the shape of your butt.
Bicycles', as in 'The bicycles' saddles were very worn.'
Saddles were made with wooden trees. Then, leather was use to make the seats, stirrups, and the girth. This is still the way many saddles today are made. They took a long time to make.
Neatsfoot oil is commonly used on leather saddles to condition and soften the leather. It helps to maintain the durability and flexibility of the leather, keeping it in good condition for longer periods of time. Be cautious not to overapply the oil, as it can darken the leather.