Originally Posted by fishboat

Way too much (unnecessary) voodoo surrounding riding a Brooks saddle. Secret slathering oils and care/feeding techniques. It isn't that mysterious.

Some folks need 500 miles of break in. Others, myself included several times over, buy them and ride them..they're comfortable from day one.

Buy one, mount it and ride it. Follow Brook's maintenance suggestions. Completely ignore extended internet forum discussions on the saddle. If it isn't comfortable right away, then give it some time, certainly more than a synthetic saddle.

A short-circuit option..buy a mildly used/like new one..there's plenty available.

Just like any other saddle..if it isn't comfortable, buy something else. I've tried a dozen or more saddles..Brooks makes me forget about my butt entirely..which is the goal. No other saddle has been able to do that.. long term. Brooks for the win.