@Oliver - I too dislike padding. I've worn padded shorts for longer rides as it's conventional and just been a bit "meh" - I don't like the bulk and the weird absorbency (I guess that's a women-specific thing but to me it's quite an important comfort issue!), and then I've done the same length rides without padding and it's not been any more sore. A 1hr commute - should be manageable in normal clothes, no?
@nelaii: I'm a big fan of the women-specific Specialized saddles, cheap and comfy (to me) although they've discontinued my favourite one (Windie XC). I think the Riva is its nearest replacement - so is already the 'softer' version I think (comparing MTB vs road models), I doubt the Ariel would be softer. I found the grippiness of the Riva surface a bit uncomfortable (it's sort of flock-like?) as it pulls on clothes and creates friction, so the Ariel might be better just because it's a smooth finish. I also have quite a boney arse and have found it most comfortable on saddles with cut-outs, but sitting a little bit further back on them than usual. I also find the angle critical - I think my saddles are a bit more nose-down than average, yes I do have to shuffle backwards every so often but I don't get sore bits...
@Oliver - I too dislike padding. I've worn padded shorts for longer rides as it's conventional and just been a bit "meh" - I don't like the bulk and the weird absorbency (I guess that's a women-specific thing but to me it's quite an important comfort issue!), and then I've done the same length rides without padding and it's not been any more sore. A 1hr commute - should be manageable in normal clothes, no?
@nelaii: I'm a big fan of the women-specific Specialized saddles, cheap and comfy (to me) although they've discontinued my favourite one (Windie XC). I think the Riva is its nearest replacement - so is already the 'softer' version I think (comparing MTB vs road models), I doubt the Ariel would be softer. I found the grippiness of the Riva surface a bit uncomfortable (it's sort of flock-like?) as it pulls on clothes and creates friction, so the Ariel might be better just because it's a smooth finish. I also have quite a boney arse and have found it most comfortable on saddles with cut-outs, but sitting a little bit further back on them than usual. I also find the angle critical - I think my saddles are a bit more nose-down than average, yes I do have to shuffle backwards every so often but I don't get sore bits...