Suspension seatpost??

has anyone here ever used a suspension seatpost? my wife is complaining about her hardtail mtb when we hit the trails with a lot of rocks and roots. quality full suspension bike is too expensive. so replacing the seatpost instead crossed my mind. is there any difference in feel? my impression is, it doesnt look hardcore enough. so i am happy with my hardatil mtb. its for my wife though.. any answer would be appreciated, thanks

I've ridden several of them briefly but never owned one. Most are crap. The one that is really good and pleasurable to ride on (or race with) is the Thudbuster. It comes in two versions and they're both pretty expensive....well worth the money, though. Don't fool around with the in-line posts, even the expensive ones from USE aren't worth it.

I had a friend with back problems and the Thudbuster is what she finally ended up with...she loves it. Learning good riding skills helps a lot on a hardtail, as does running larger 2.3"-ish tires with lower pressures....but if those aren't issues then pick up a Thudbuster for her and make her smile more. :o)

I am unable to comment based on actual experience.
I would look into a Thudbuster suspension seat post.
I know these are being used on tandems for the rear seater.
I have considered the short travel model for long multi day bike rides in the future. Comfort is the name of the game when you are bicycling, be it off road or on road.
Good Luck

She should learn to use her legs and arms as shock absorbers. A suspension seat post or a seat with springs may help. I have a suspension seat post but I adjusted the spring all the way tight so it's like it's a standard post. I don't remember why, I just did did it.

If it's her tailbone, a suspension seatpost might not be the answer, it could be the seat itself. Try a softer seat from your local retailer. Cloud 9 makes an excellent seat with lots of cushion.