Originally Posted by dreamy
Just got my Brooks B17 saddle (took less than a week from the UK to Aus).
My question - is there anything particularly special about the Brooks Proofide they recommend using, or can I use any good quality leather conditioner? The reason I ask is that I will have to order some in (can't seem to find anywhere local that stocks it), whereas I have a tub of Dubbin at home that I use on other Leather stuff and seems to work pretty well.
For the record, went for my first ride on the saddle last night (50km) and my butt was quite sore afterwards due to the hardness, but I will keep persevering!!
Be aware that the use of anything other than Proofhide will invalidate your warranty. The danger with Dubbin and other products is that they can make the leather too soft and therefore can cause sagging.While Brooks frown on this I myself use a leather conditioner but you have to be very careful as too much can saturate the leather. So use one light coat and wait 24 hours before seeing how far it has penetrated.