dydst

Hello,

I just got a brand new Brooks B17 saddle on my bike, and I see everyone recommending that it be treated with Proofride when new. Call me cheap, but I've got several different leather softners/waterproofers/protectors at home -- do I absolutely need to also buy a can of Proofride?

Does anyone use something other than Proofride to treat their saddles? What do you use, and how often?

Thanks!

ronzorini

Snoseal can be found in many outdoor stores and is cheap.

https://www.atsko.com/snoseal.html

You should only use around a "pea" size worth of protectant on top. You should also rub it into the underside as well. I treat it a couple of times when it's new. Let the saddle sit outside in the sun to warm it up first. After that, a couple times a year should be sufficient depending on what conditions you ride in.

Toml

Any chamois cream you use regularly will condition your Brooks saddle if you ride enough.

unkchunk

Warrantee issues.

Toml

Edit to clarify: The chamois cream from your cycling shorts will condition the seat. I didn't mean to imply that you should apply it directly to the leather...enough will seep through the chamois while riding to keep your saddle well conditioned.

If you buy a Brooks with concerns about the warranty you're buying the wrong saddle.

I-Like-To-Bike

Nothing; always, for 35 years, on B-72, B-66, and B-73 saddles.

diode

I use Kiwi Saddle Soap on mine. I apply a small amount on the top; then a generous slathering on the bottom to protect it from water damage in case it rains on me.

HardyWeinberg

You don't want softeners/conditioners, if you want anything it would be waterproofing and that's about it, which basically means beeswax products, sno-seal, nikwax...

chipcom 

Liar...you use plenty of butt sweat.

ginsoakedboy

The Rivendell site used to hawk a product called Obenauf's - don't know if they still sell it. Also, I think it was supposed to be superior to the Proofide, but don't think it was cheaper.

stringbreaker

Not trying to be a killjoy but, if you spend the money to purchase a Brooks why not listen to them and use the proofide. I mean they have been making these things for a while now and they know what different products do to leather. Thats why they include the instructions for the care of the saddle so it gets a good start in life. look on e-bay and I bet you can get a better deal than any of the online stores are selling it for and while you are at it get the wrench too. IMHO

Bekologist

Snoseal, Obenauf's Montana boot grease.

Portis

You must not be too cheap if you aren't afraid of damaging your brand new saddle. Get the proofhide, it's pennies per application.

Wil Davis

Proofide occasionally; Kiwi shoe-polish more often.

- Wil