Why? Because I weigh 240. I saw that the side flanges were really splaying out and allowing the entire top to flatten out behind the narrow portion, rather than my sit bones having a chance to indent the leather. Result was extra pressure on the paranial area.
So I laced the flanges together in a couple of spots and went for a ride.
This was the first time I've ever ridden where there was absolutely no pain, just pressure on the sit bones.

I'm really excited about this level of comfort and would encourage other phat riders to give consideration to the Brooks B17.

Mike