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New saddle hunter, why not the Cruzr xc?

H

huntermandan

New Member
Joined
Apr 29, 2022
Messages
9
Im looking at getting into saddle hunting this fall and have been doing some research into different saddles. From most everything I have seen the cruzr xc is pretty highly recommended and a standout for comfort and I am leaning pretty heavily towards that being my first saddle. Being that you don't know what you don't know are there any reasons that a first timer should stay away from the cruzr xc? I'm hoping to be able to pick one up used which looks like it may take some time looking at the old classified threads.
 
I have read that pleated saddles won't stay closed after a lot of use, but I haven't seen someone specifically mention the cruzr.
 
huntermandan said:
Im looking at getting into saddle hunting this fall and have been doing some research into different saddles. From most everything I have seen the cruzr xc is pretty highly recommended and a standout for comfort and I am leaning pretty heavily towards that being my first saddle. Being that you don't know what you don't know are there any reasons that a first timer should stay away from the cruzr xc? I'm hoping to be able to pick one up used which looks like it may take some time looking at the old classified threads.
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No reasons to avoid that specific saddle. The feedback is generally very positive. However, IME, saddles are like boots and gloves: what works well for most will not work the absolute best for all. Different body shapes, different preference in sitting/leaning, etc. The only way to know for sure is for you to try it out.
 
Ben C said:
I have read that pleated saddles won't stay closed after a lot of use, but I haven't seen someone specifically mention the cruzr.
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I think the TX5 Lonestar would (brother has one). And Overwatch Orion for sure will.

My primary is a Flex, and it kind of does it's own thing like you're saying, and it's still incredibly comfortable. Maybe that's why, idk.

But, if you wear a pleated saddle in and it's floppy, that doesn't sound like good times.

I always pack my saddle in.

A consideration for the Cruzr.
 
I have a Cruzr XC and like it. I think it would be a pretty safe bet for a first saddle. I have gravitated to 2 panel saddles now and my go to is a Treehopper Recon. But the two are really an apples and oranges comparison.
 
Sounds like there are not many reasons why not. Main thing I have heard is the pleat could open sometimes, and you cant tell fit till you are wearing them, which you just would have to try something. Everything is going to have a few downsides but they seem pretty minimal, or the same could be said about any saddle.
 
One down side I noticed, if you wear it into the woods, it has some extra material to the sides and can be a little floppy. Not an end all. But keep that in mind if your planning to walk long distance wearing it, it is some extra material hanging out. So it is big.
 
New saddle hunter here, one season, bought the Trophyline, XOP; sent the XOP back immediately. Liked the Trophyline, tried the XC after the reviews on here and to support local manufacturer (made in TN, since Bama owns TN). Sold the Trophyline, best analogy the XC felt like prewashed denim compared to the old Tough Skins dark blue straight legs stiffness of the TL. Pleat does open occasionally but since hanging cheap suspenders on the saddle not an issue hardly notice it anymore. Great saddle IMO.
 
I really like the XC and as others have said it has a few cons minor in my opinion.I also have a Lonestar with a pleat and I like it but its not noticably more comfortable than the XC. If I buy another saddle it will be the Orion which addresses the pleat.
 
XC was my choice for first saddle and not disappointed. One full season and love it so far. No issues w/ pleats or bulkiness as I wear it into woods w/ walks over a mile w/ no issues. Customer service was great, too. I was between sizes and decided to return initial order for larger size and received the new one before they received my return...wow!
 
my saddle for the last 2 years has been a cruzr xc

i wanted to move it to backup/saddle to use when primary is drying out...i almost ordered a second cruzr xc for this purpose and now after waiting 2 months for a flat branch....i wish i had just order another cruzr (as it has worked perfectly for me)

some folks complain that they don't wear in to the stand on long walks very well.....but with my climbing system and other gear, i just put my saddle in a mesh bag and strap it to my pack....i personally think wearing your saddle in is overrated and has downsides
 
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raisins said:
my saddle for the last 2 years has been a cruzr xc

i wanted to move it to backup/saddle to use when primary is drying out...i almost ordered a second cruzr xc for this purpose and now after waiting 2 months of a flat branch....i wish i had just order another cruzr (as it has worked perfectly for me)

some folks complain that they don't wear in to the stand on long walks very well.....but with my climbing system and other gear, i just put my saddle in a mesh bag and strap it to my pack....i personally think wearing your saddle in is overrated and has downsides
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I have to agree, I pack it in, I go in with as little layers on as possible and get dressed at, or near the tree
 
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