Updated: 21st August 2025
When comparing premium leather touring bicycle saddles, the debate often comes down to Brooks vs Selle Anatomica. Both brands have earned their reputation among serious cyclists, but which saddle delivers the best value for your money?
After extensive testing and analysis, we believe the Brooks B17 is the superior choice for most riders. Here’s our complete breakdown of Brooks vs Selle Anatomica to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Brooks vs Selle Anatomica
| Feature | Brooks B17 | Selle Anatomica X2 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 520g | 420g |
| Break-in Period | 200–500km | None required |
| Width Options | 151–176mm | 130mm only |
| Price | More affordable | Premium pricing |
| Rail Material | Steel/Titanium options | Heat-treated Chromoly |
| Weather Resistance | Requires protection | Dual laminate protection |
Brand History and Heritage
Brooks: 158 Years of Saddle Innovation
Founded in 1866 in Birmingham, England, Brooks has been perfecting leather saddles for over a century and a half. The company began when John Boultbee Brooks, originally a horse saddle manufacturer, found bicycle seats uncomfortable after his horse died. This pivotal moment led to the creation of what would become the world’s most respected bicycle saddle brand.
Selle Anatomica: Modern American Craftsmanship
Selle Anatomica is the newcomer in this Brooks vs Selle Anatomica comparison, founded in 2006 by Tommy Milton in Wisconsin. Despite being relatively young, the brand has gained a dedicated following among cyclists seeking immediate comfort without a break-in period.
Break-in Period: The Crucial Difference
Brooks B17: Patience Rewarded
The Brooks B17 requires a break-in period of 200-500 kilometers, depending on riding frequency and body weight. During this time, the leather gradually molds to your unique sit bone shape, creating a custom fit that many cyclists describe as “riding on a cloud.”
Pro tip: The break-in process can be accelerated by applying Brooks Proofide leather conditioner and riding consistently for the first few weeks.
Selle Anatomica: Instant Comfort
Selle Anatomica saddles require no break-in period whatsoever. The softer leather construction and innovative design provide immediate comfort from day one. However, this instant gratification comes with a trade-off—the saddle may not develop the personalized fit that makes Brooks saddles legendary.
Cutout Design and Pressure Relief
Brooks B17: Traditional and Proven
The standard Brooks B17 doesn’t feature a cutout, relying instead on the leather’s natural flexibility and eventual molding to provide pressure relief. For riders requiring a cutout, Brooks offers the B17 Imperial and C17 Carved models.
Selle Anatomica: Superior Cutout Innovation
Selle Anatomica’s “Flex-Fly Slot” is significantly longer than Brooks’ cutout options, extending nearly the full length of the saddle. This design provides:
- Enhanced pressure relief for sensitive areas
- Increased flex and natural movement
- Better shock absorption over rough terrain
- Reduced risk of saddle sores on long rides
Sizing and Fit Options
Brooks: Variety for Every Body Type
Brooks offers extensive sizing options to accommodate different sit bone widths:
- B17 Narrow: 151mm width
- B17 Standard: 175mm width
- B17 Short (S): 176mm width, 242mm length
This variety ensures proper sit bone support, which is crucial for long-distance comfort.
Selle Anatomica: One Size Approach
All Selle Anatomica saddles feature a consistent 130mm width with a 290mm length. While this standardization simplifies selection, it may not suit riders with wider or narrower sit bones as effectively as Brooks’ varied sizing.
If you are not sure what size your sit bones are this is a good way to find out.
Durability and Construction Quality
Brooks B17: Built to Last Decades
Brooks saddles are renowned for their longevity, with many riders using the same saddle for 20+ years. The robust construction features:
- High-quality English leather
- Solid copper rivets
- Steel or titanium rail options
- Time-tested tensioning system
Selle Anatomica: Modern Materials with Considerations
Early Selle Anatomica models had rail bending issues, particularly under heavy loads or sudden impacts. Recent improvements include:
- Heat-treated 4130 Chromoly steel rails
- Dual reinforcing laminate layers
- Stainless steel rails on X2 models
However, the rails still require careful installation and weight considerations.
Weather Resistance
Brooks vs Selle Anatomica: Weather Performance
Brooks saddles are vulnerable to prolonged moisture exposure and require protection during wet conditions. Regular application of Brooks Proofide helps maintain water resistance.
Selle Anatomica saddles feature dual laminate layers that provide superior weather resistance straight from the factory, making them potentially better for all-weather touring.
Weight Comparison
For weight-conscious cyclists, the Selle Anatomica X2 weighs 420g compared to the Brooks B17’s 520g—a 100g difference that matters for ultralight bikepacking setups.
Price and Value Analysis
Brooks B17: Superior Value Proposition
The Brooks B17 offers exceptional value considering:
- Lower initial cost than comparable Selle Anatomica models
- Decades of proven performance
- Extensive size and color options
- Worldwide service and replacement parts availability
Selle Anatomica: Premium Pricing
Selle Anatomica commands premium prices for their innovative design and American manufacturing, but the higher cost isn’t always justified by performance improvements over Brooks.
Which Saddle Should You Choose?
Choose Brooks B17 If You:
- Want the best long-term value and durability
- Prefer a saddle that molds to your unique anatomy
- Don’t mind a break-in period for superior long-term comfort
- Need specific width options for proper fit
- Value a proven track record and heritage brand
Choose Selle Anatomica If You:
- Need immediate comfort without break-in
- Prioritize weight savings (100g difference)
- Prefer superior weather resistance
- Want the longest cutout design available
- Don’t mind paying premium prices for modern innovation
Final Verdict: Brooks vs Selle Anatomica
In our comprehensive Brooks vs Selle Anatomica comparison, the Brooks B17 emerges as the clear winner for most cyclists. Here’s why:
- Superior Value: Better price-to-performance ratio
- Proven Durability: Decades of reliable service
- Custom Fit: Break-in process creates personalized comfort
- Size Options: Better accommodation of different body types
- Brand Heritage: 158 years of saddle-making expertise
While Selle Anatomica offers innovative features like immediate comfort and superior cutout design, the Brooks B17’s combination of affordability, durability, and time-tested performance makes it the smarter investment for serious cyclists.
Recommended Models
Best Brooks Option
Brooks B17 Standard – The gold standard for touring and bikepacking saddles, offering the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and value.
Best Selle Anatomica Option
Selle Anatomica X2 – If you prefer the American brand, the X2 offers their most refined design with improved rail durability.
Maintenance Tips
Brooks B17 Care
- Apply Brooks Proofide every 6 months
- Protect from prolonged moisture exposure
- Adjust tension as needed during break-in period
Selle Anatomica Care
- Clean regularly to prevent squeaking
- Inspect rails for stress signs
- Follow weight and installation guidelines strictly
Ready to make your choice? Both saddles represent excellent craftsmanship, but for most riders, the Brooks B17’s combination of value, durability, and legendary comfort makes it the superior choice in the Brooks vs Selle Anatomica debate.
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