Agree with TZENU and Sam. Knicks are underrated by far. My family also give me crap about it. But IDGAF as I'm comfortable and have had no issue with butt pain since wearing them for riding. I actually smirk at those who don't wear them now. You'd be silly to do a ride over an hour long without them. Chaffing, saddle sores anyone?
As for saddle's, well I still have my factory Kona saddle my bike came with and its been fine. My mrs Kona saddle has been upgraded to a gel saddle as she refuses to wear 'nappy pants' as she calls them. Go figure.