I think the big issue is that yes at some point (mid 1980s maybe) Brooks just started using this really hard, thick leather. I mean the small rivet Pro on my '73 Cinelli which dates from... well '73.. is the ultimate in Brooks comfort. The one I got for my Peugeot, dated '85 I think.. is just like riding astride a steel beam. Ideale saddles tend to have thinner leather and yes.. they don't retain their shape as well as a Brooks. Or at least that's my experience.
Peter Kohler
Washington DC USA