As others have pointed out, padded saddles are the absolute worst - as well as any saddle with a fuzzy fabric or any surface other than absolutely smooth.

A good leather saddle is the best. Better yet, in my opinion, is a leather saddle with springs.

Yes, Brooks makes an excellent saddle, but there are other leather saddle makers like Lepper of Holland, etc. The problem, of course, is that as the value of the dollar falls, these beautiful European leather saddles are getting a lot more expensive.

You can also keep your eyes open for used leather saddles. A lot of the old leather saddles I have seen have most of the life weathered out of them, so the old saying "buy cheap = buy twice" still stands.

The good thing about buying a good leather saddle is that you can transfer it to your next bike. A good leather saddle will literally last your lifetime as long as you take care of it and don't leave it outside.