Saddle Sores… They're not pretty, but

the more you ride; odds are that you will experience at least one, probably more. If you’ve already experienced the ugly discomfort of a saddle sore, you know what I’m talking about. Having a recent bout myself, I was motivated to shed some light on the subject and share it with you. I’d like to break it down like this: What are saddle sores? What causes them? How to prevent and treat them?

What are saddle sores? There are basically two types of saddle sores: those caused from ingrown hairs and boils. Ingrown hairs can cause bacterial infections, which may develop into a pus-filled sore. This type of saddle sore will usually heal up on its own. However, continued rubbing may cause skin ulceration where a lesion may form. Boils, on the other hand, can become large, hard, and hurt a lot. These may appear deeper under the skin.

Two other notable conditions may develop from riding a bike, chafing and a sore butt. Chafing is caused by constant rubbing from normal cycling motion. When your rear gets sore the flesh becomes red and irritated. Depending on the length of time in the saddle, you may experience some of both of these on every ride. The irritation usually subsides after an hour or so off the bike. Bike fit can be important in reducing the irritation you experience each ride. Make sure your saddle is level and centered and appropriate for your riding style and body geometry. Your local shop can help you find a saddle that works for you, especially if you are experiencing pain or discomfort.

Why do saddle sores happen? Pressure and rubbing. It is important to wear lycra cycling shorts with a good chamois to reduce pressure and rubbing. Look for a chamois with few seams. The more seams there are in your chamois the more risk there is of irritation. Cycling shorts are intended to NOT be worn with underwear. Underwear seams will wreak havoc on your skin.

How do you prevent and treat saddle sores? I’ve already mentioned a couple ways to prevent saddle sores, namely proper saddle and saddle adjustment, and cycling shorts with a good chamois. Another qualification of a good chamois is one that has an antimicrobial treatment. Using a chamois conditioner while you ride will help to reduce pressure and rubbing. There are lots of different options on the market. It will take trying them out to find one that works best for you. Always wear clean cycling shorts and change your clothes immediately after your ride. Antibacterial ointments can help to relieve chafed and sore areas. Shaving or waxing can help to prevent ingrown hairs. A ritual combination of these last two methods saved me during the AIDS Lifecycle 4 ride from San Francisco to L.A. Cyclists that ride 100+ miles/day for five or more days are at higher risk for saddle sores.

The best treatment is to stay off the bike when you notice a saddle sore develop. Keep the area clean and DRY. If you develop a lesion, seek medical attention.

On the bright side, the more you ride, the more you condition your skin and the less likely you are to have problems with saddle sores.

Happy riding!
-Kelli & Sara