When I started reading C&V in about 2009, I rolled my eyes at all the Brooks devotees. But I've reconnected with my like for the saddles, and I own three now. Actually, one is a recovered RHM saddle, on a Brooks frame. I like leather saddles, heavy weight and all. But they're not for everyone.

If you want a comfortable saddle that doesn't mind rain, any of the modern saddles might work. You have to try a few models before you find one that suits your butt.

Or you could try a Brooks C-17 (aka Cambium). It is a suspended saddle like the leather saddles, but it's made of synthetic materials. It feels like a Brooks and is priced like one.

If you take care of a Brooks, it ends up being a good value. They give you more years per dollar than most saddles. That doesn't mean they're for everyone. Not everyone wants to keep rain off their saddles. Not everyone will tolerate the extra weight. Not everyone will find it comfortable. Not everyone will tolerate the price.

If you find a modern saddle suits you, I'm not going to tell you that you need a Brooks. Whatever works is fine.

I recommend some lubrication to get rid of creaking. There's no reason to tolerate that. As [MENTION=1477]chewa[/MENTION] said, it might be at the rails, so lubricate the rails and reinstall the saddle. Or lubricate the points where the frame and the cover meet. Or both, really.