Originally Posted by
onbike 1939
People may regard Brooks saddles as "hammock type" but only if these saddles have been softened using conditioner. The recommended method is as I've mentioned above.
The Spa saddles are firmer due to the thicker leather and the Brooks "Proofide" is merely a mixture of wax, oils and citronella which when used, gives a very temporary sealing to the the rolled top-side of the saddle. The leather used in the Spa saddles has had a waterproofing process applied and the underside has been covered by a tough waterproof material.
These saddles do not use a spanner to tension but have an Allen-headed bolt to do this, a much more sensible idea. I know this as I have several.
I've had a B17 that lasted 30 years but still believe that in terms of construction and the materials used, the Spa saddles are superior whether they are Chinese made or not. It must be difficult to avoid Chinese-made products unless you are averse to Apple products and most hi-tech others and still rely on pigeon post.
Over time regardless if you use a softener or not the saddle will "hammock" by itself! I broke in my saddles without using any Proofide! It wasn't until the saddles had about 1000 miles on them did I start applying it, and then I apply is sparingly and about once a year, I use Kiwi shoe wax more frequently.
If you read my post I said I try to stay away from Chinese made products, didn't say I stay entirely away because I know it's impossible to do so, but whenever possible I avoid buying made in China products. what most people don't realize is that due to profit hungry corporations who have their junk made in China they raise the cost of the product to make more profit and then that item comes darn close to the price of something equivalent made in some other country...even the USA!! Chinese made products will always have spotty quality control and higher fail rates and shorter life expectancy. Some things simple like that saddle should last a long time, their using thicker leather and steel...not much can go wrong there! But I still wouldn't buy it because of what the government uses the money for.