I have a Russell (built for me) and I can't get more than about three hours out of it before it gets uncomfortable. The stock saddle takes me nearly that far although the discomfort is much worse and is accumulative; a short rest and getting back on the Russell is like starting a new day. I also have a Corbin and cannot ride on that for 45 minutes before screaming 'Uncle' and then I am done for the day. What I have ended up with though is the Corbin with a pair (one for me, one for my wife) of Airhawks on top of it. All day comfort and even after 22+ hours continuous (excluding food, fuel and rest room stops of course) it is still comfortable.
A stock Russell will raise the seating position about 1 1/2" because of the spring construction built on a stock saddle pan. Russell now makes a 'sport' saddle that does not have the internal springs and is made especially for people who do not want to be any higher than necessary. Russell themselves recommends their standard saddle for best comfort though.
The vinyl or leather on a Russell is waterproof but the sewn seams will leak. Because the saddle is dished, it will hold a puddle of water that will leak through the stitches. That is why they make a rain cover because once the foam in the saddle gets wet it will be days or weeks drying out again.
Saddles are a very individual thing, and even the custom made types do not mean they will work for you, at least not without some adjustments. My experience is that there is no way to tell how a saddle will feel after hours of riding on it by how it seems to feel at first; you have to wait until the pressure points make themselves apparent unfortunately. Best of luck finding one that works for you.
Brian
I'm planning a long trip to Yellowstone. Would you say the best seat for the job would be a Russell Day Long?
Are they water proof? I noticed they sell covers???
Also, I have 32" inseam, would that seat put me up any higher?
Thanks
Tony
