Selle SMP Saddles:
3-Step Selection Guide
The most decisive factor in choosing a saddle is the structure of the pelvis which, together with personal morphology - the development of muscles, the organs of the uro-genital system, and the very physiognomy of these structures - defines a body that is unique and specific to each individual (not even twins are 100% identical).
Even science confirms what experience already tells us: it is not possible to choose a saddle based solely on measurements (saddle & pelvis). Testing and experimentation are always necessary resources to validate the choice.
Selle SMP Saddles: Orientation Table
The selection method recommended by Selle SMP is based on three different steps that allow you to identify the best saddle for each cyclist.
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#1: Hard or Soft?
Choose the padding level you prefer
Saddles in the Selle SMP Professional catalog do not differ by type of cycling. For this reason, any saddle can be used for mountain biking, road cycling, cyclocross, bike touring, etc. Especially regarding saddles, cyclists have very personal preferences and criteria that cannot be conveyed when choosing a saddle.
The first column of the table presents 5 categories differentiated by padding level and materials. If you prefer a saddle without padding, the models from the CARBON FIBER and NO PADDING lines with the highest possible stiffness level are recommended. If you prefer saddles with padding, there are three categories with different comfort levels: PADDING MINIMUM (minimum padding level), PADDING STANDARD (normal padding level), and PADDING HIGH (high padding level).
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#2: from XS to XXL
Choose the saddle for your waist size
The anthropological statistical studies underlying the ergonomics of the saddles allowed Selle SMP to structure the various pelvis/waist measurements into simplified "categories" based on the standardized pants size (yes, your pants size corresponds to your saddle size).
Considering morphological variation and numerous anatomical structures - with attention to exceptions - guidance by pants size allows defining a statistically valid orientation for 75% of cases. Following the official Selle SMP table, it is very likely you will find the saddle suitable for your anatomy on the first try.
All Selle SMP saddles are unisex.
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#3: Test-Drive!
Try the models suitable for you
To be sure you have chosen the correct saddle for you, do a test drive to draw definitive conclusions. Each person's physical constitution and preferences are unique, which means only trying the saddle allows each cyclist to reach their own conclusions and choose the ideal Selle SMP saddle.
LEVELING THE BASE
Using a spirit level ruler, adjust the saddle angle to a horizontal position and place the rails in a central position.
CUSTOM ADJUSTMENT
After mounting the saddle, take the bike and ride for a few kilometers. Ignore your old saddle and only pay attention to your body's signals. Adjust the saddle tilt according to your conclusions until you truly feel "fitted" to your pelvis.
DISTANCE BETWEEN SADDLE AND STEM
The rails of Selle SMP saddles are exceptionally long - 8 cm. Adjust the rail position 5mm at a time and never exceed 15mm at once. Again, adjust the distance until you truly feel "fitted" to your pelvis.
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Be patient!
Small adjustments in saddle position can lead to big differences in how your body interacts with the bike. The Selle SMP saddle selection and adjustment process is relatively lengthy and requires making several changes in tilt and distance until reaching a final conclusion.
