I need a new saddle. I've always ridden the Selle Italia Turbomatic, and like the shape, so I'm almost certainly going to go with a Turbomatic IV. What I'm trying to decide is whether to get the regular version or the gel version. I've never had a gel saddle, so I'm not sure how different they feel and/or whether there are any long-term drawbacks. The $10 price difference is not an issue.

Those who have tried both ... which do you prefer, and why? If you're riding a gel saddle and are happy with it, would you ever go back to a non-gel model?

Any insights, caveats, etc. will be most appreciated ...

If a saddle fits well I don't need extra padding and if I need extra padding the saddle doesn't fit well. Gel feels good when I first sit on it, but after a while it bunches up where I'm not sitting, moves underneath me and does nothing to improve the quality of the ride. I wouldn't care at all about added weight or expense, just don't find it comfy.

...with the Selle Italia Flites The gel version was slightly more comfortable on very long rides(60miles plus) but really didn't think it made a difference on shorter ones.I own a Fizik Arione now and love it.It has some padding but I don't think it's gel.I would go with the one that seems to be the most supportive and not just the most cushion.

I need a new saddle. I've always ridden the Selle Italia Turbomatic, and like the shape, so I'm almost certainly going to go with a Turbomatic IV. What I'm trying to decide is whether to get the regular version or the gel version. I've never had a gel saddle, so I'm not sure how different they feel and/or whether there are any long-term drawbacks. The $10 price difference is not an issue.

Those who have tried both ... which do you prefer, and why? If you're riding a gel saddle and are happy with it, would you ever go back to a non-gel model?

Any insights, caveats, etc. will be most appreciated ...

I would not want to discourage anyone from trying a saddle that fits them, but I'd vote nay for Gel. I have not found them to be more comfortable than a good dense foam saddle. For example, I tried the Gel Flite and found it to cause more pressure than the standard Flite model. I lot of bulky Gel just means things other than your sit bones are holding your weight. I find that many Gel saddles have a lot of extra stitching that adds to chafing or at least early short wear and tear. If you can try the gel version and exchange it go ahead and make your own call.

personally, i'ld rather really good bike shorts.