This is a review I wrote a while ago on another site. I’m re-posting here because it is my intent to start riding again:
I strongly recommend the ISM Adamo Road Saddle. I’ve let friends and family who ride know about this saddle and urged them to get it.
Summary:
Saddle is well built, attractive, and provides peace of mind, as no numbness or discomfort were noticed. There is a bit of a comfort adjustment to be made, as all weight is on sit bones. Soreness did result for the first few rides, but that decreased with use. With practice this saddle is safe, comfortable, and definitely a step in the right direction for saddle manufacturers. ISM Adamo saddles are an investment in health. Very highly recommended.
Strengths:
Solid build, attractive, comfortable and provides relief from saddle induced numbness. That alone makes this saddle worth the price ($119 and up).
Weaknesses:
You must get used to this saddle. I was very sore after my first few rides, but in the right places. With use, rides will become more comfortable. Price can be a little steep.
I’ve ridden with the Adamo Saddle for a while since I wrote that review. I like the saddle even more now. There is absolutely no discomfort and control is not an issue.
I first approached 2 different salespersons about getting a noseless saddle and both told me the same story:
They’re not safe because you don’t have control; you slide off the saddle; spend more for a saddle that works before you buy that.
I then asked them if they had tried the Adamo. Both said no. I then asked if they had tried a noseless saddle. Again, both said no. So… how did they come to their conclusion? I didn’t ask as I already knew.
Point is this: the ISM Adamo is radically different. Some may not like the look of the saddle, others won’t accept that it does not have a nose.
My advice as someone who has ridden it: Try it!
Who cares what the saddle looks like? It may not be for you, but if it does help reduce numbness and discomfort, then you have invested in health and will ride longer. I have never felt like I was about to loose control or slide of the saddle (see my post on noseless saddles and hills). There is no soreness or pain and, the best part, there is no discomfort or numbness.
I found my saddle. I hope it works for you.
