This ^^^
If your legs aren't used to cycling, they get tired quickly, and as a result, you will tend to put more weight onto the saddle. So the tireder you get... Hence the "ouch" as a bike saddle isn't really designed to take much weight. It's intended as more of a perch, as your body weight should be distributed evenly across all contact points.
The above advice is good. Get some decent bike time first, and then see where it takes you.
Although do make sure that the saddles are at the right height. If they're set too low, then that's another reason for the "ouch" - when sat on the saddle, your leg should be almost fully extended when the pedal is at the bottom of the stroke.
And a caveat. Saddles (just like shorts and sports bras) are extremely personal, and what works for one person might not necessarily work for another. As a female member of the species, I can't vouch for gents saddles, but if your wife still has comfort issues after getting some good bike time in, then something like a Charge Ladle or a Madison Leia (they are essentially the same saddle) might well be worth a punt as they are inexpensive and tend to suit most bums. I have two Ladles and a Leia fitted to my bikes.
I am more than comfortable in the first 30 minutes!?
)
