La comfort on the saddle It has become a major headache for many cyclists, especially when it comes to maintaining a demanding posture for hours, whether training or racing. Poorly positioned support not only reduces performance but can also cause recurring discomfort and make any long ride seem endless.
Against this backdrop, Shimano's component brand, PRO, has taken another step within its range of short saddles with the launch of the PRO Stealth 3DThis model combines a highly aerodynamic design with real biomechanical data and 3D-printed padding. The goal is to offer the most comfortable version of the Stealth family to date without sacrificing its distinctly sporty character.
A saddle designed for aggressive riding positions without sacrificing comfort
In the Stealth range, PRO has been committed to saddles for years. short tip and wide central channel To favor forward and efficient riding positions, very common among road cyclists, triathletes, or those who use time trial bikes. The new Stealth 3D maintains this philosophy but introduces an extra layer of refinement focused on prolonged comfort.
The brand emphasizes that the sustained comfort This is key for the cyclist to maintain an aggressive posture without constantly shifting position to relieve pressure. Therefore, the development of the PRO Stealth 3D has relied on bike fitting sessions and specific pressure mapping measurements, collected under real-world riding conditions.
In practice, the saddle is geared towards those who often pedal in a very forward position, for example in fast flat sections, high-speed mountain passes, or competitions on demanding terrainHowever, PRO's proposal is not limited to pure performance: the brand recognizes that many users are willing to accept a few extra grams if the gain in comfort is significant, something especially relevant on long routes over broken or cobbled roads so prevalent in Europe.
Thanks to this blend of aerodynamic focus and advanced cushioning, the Stealth 3D positions itself as an option for cyclists looking for a saddle high performance but without extremes, suitable for both competition days and long-distance cycling tours.
3D printing technology applied to EPU padding
The defining feature of the PRO Stealth 3D is its 3D printed EPU paddingFar from a conventional foam, PRO has used a mesh structure generated by 3D printing, in which each area of ​​the saddle is configured with a specific density depending on the type of support that occurs on it.
This structure is articulated in three distinct mesh areasAt the front, the high-density area provides firm support to the sit bones when the cyclist leans forward in an aggressive position, typical of intense effort or aero positioning. In the central area, the density decreases to better distribute weight when a more upright posture is adopted, reducing the appearance of localized pressure points.
For its part, the rear area of ​​the saddle uses a even lower densityThis is due to two main reasons: reducing weight in a section with less actual contact and reinforcing a lighter, faster aesthetic. Since the rear end receives less load when pedaling, PRO has prioritized lightness and visual continuity of the assembly.
The mesh pattern is not uniform: the padding is made up of hexagonal cells which act as small shock absorbers. These cells work both individually and together, so each one can deform to absorb vibrations from the road surface, helping to reduce the well-known road buzz which is especially noticeable on bumpy or cobbled roads.
In some areas, this hexagonal pattern is partially visible, reinforcing the saddle's technological image without losing sight of its main function: manage pressure and filter out irregularities in the terrainCompared to traditional EVA or PU foams, 3D printing allows for much more precise fine-tuning of the mechanical behavior of the padding, something that in this model has been applied directly from the pressure data obtained in real studies.
Development based on real data from European cyclists
The PRO Stealth 3D project has not been limited to a laboratory exercise. PRO notes that it has used pressure mapping measurements Data was collected during bike fitting sessions with cyclists of varying profiles, along with their direct feedback after the tests. This approach has allowed for the precise identification of where the loads are concentrated and how they vary according to posture and terrain.
Based on these trials, the following were defined: three mesh density zonesby adjusting the firmness and absorption capacity of each area. In this way, the saddle is designed to respond both to pedaling in a very low position, such as that adopted on rollers at the end of a climb or on flat terrain with a headwind, and to situations in which the cyclist sits up a bit more, for example on long climbs or when the surface becomes more uneven.
The brand itself acknowledges that, although many users of the Stealth range are comfortable with the conventional models, there is a group of cyclists who It clearly prioritizes comfort ahead of weight, especially in long-distance races, cyclotourism events or competitions with cobbled sections, very common in northern Europe.
In that sense, the Stealth 3D is aimed at those who spend a lot of time sitting on the saddle. roads in poor condition or with a rough surfaceas well as those who train on long weekend routes in Spain or other European countries where potholes or patches on the road are an everyday occurrence.
PRO emphasizes that the adoption of 3D printing is not simply a matter of aesthetics, but rather a response to the possibility of customize in more detail The saddle's response in each zone is reflected in a more homogeneous feeling of support without sacrificing pedaling efficiency.
Base design, structure and vibration management
Beyond the padding, the PRO Stealth 3D retains the short and wide base characteristic From the Stealth family, with a wide central anatomical cutout. This geometry aims to relieve pressure on sensitive areas, promote blood circulation, and allow the cyclist to maintain demanding positions without as much discomfort in the perineal area.
The base is carbon reinforcedThis helps maintain good structural rigidity without adding significant weight. PRO utilizes a triple-bridge design, which serves as support for both the 3D mesh and the rails, resulting in a stable assembly prepared to withstand the loads generated by hard pedaling while seated.
On the upper surface, the saddle features a finish with small dimples that contribute to improve cyclist supportThis is especially important when riding at high intensity or on sections where movements on the bike are more abrupt. This type of texture can also help maintain position on hot days, when sweat tends to cause cycling shorts to slip down more easily.
The combination of a rigid base, anatomical channel, and 3D-printed hexagonal padding is designed to filter out a large portion of the vibrations rising from the asphalt. By having each cell act like a tiny spring, the continuous rattling felt on worn surfaces is reduced, which ultimately translates into... less muscle fatigue and less overload in the lumbar region and the upper part of the body.
In typical European settings, such as stages with cobbled sections, uneven rural roads, or descents with heavily patched asphalt, this vibration absorption capacity It can make the difference between finishing the route feeling comfortable or getting off the bike with your hands and pelvic area more punished than desired.
Versions, widths and weights of the PRO Stealth 3D
The PRO Stealth 3D range arrives on the market in two main versions to cover different cyclist profiles and budgets. On one hand, there is the version Team, with carbon rails, geared towards those looking for the lightest possible set. On the other hand, the version Performance, with INOX stainless steel rails, a bit heavier but also more affordable.
In both finishes, the saddle is offered in Two widths: 142 mm and 152 mmThis dual option allows for better adaptation to different sit bone widths, which is usually determined through a specific measurement, either in a specialized shop or at a bike fitting studio. Choosing the correct width is key to ensuring proper support distribution and maximizing the saddle's comfort potential.
The declared weight starts from 224 grams in the Team version narrower (142 mm), while the Performance configurations reach around 260 gramsTaking into account the level of padding, the mesh structure and the carbon base reinforcement, these figures are competitive within the high-performance saddle segment with a focus on comfort.
PRO has designed the Stealth 3D to be compatible with specific accessories The brand offers accessories for saddles, such as camera mounts, rear bottle cages, and other items designed for road cyclists and triathletes. This makes it easy to integrate the saddle into setups geared towards both competition and intensive training.
As for indicative prices in the European market, the Team versions are priced around 299,99 Euros, while the Performance variants are around 269,99 EurosThese figures are in line with other high-end saddles that incorporate advanced manufacturing and design technologies, especially in the 3D printed product segment.
The PRO Stealth 3D is presented as an option for cyclists who spend many hours on the bike and are looking for a short, aerodynamic and technologically advanced saddleCapable of maintaining a demanding riding position without compromising comfort, this model combines real-world pressure mapping data, a 3D-printed hexagonal cell structure, and the availability of carbon or stainless steel rails. This makes it a compelling option for cyclists who regularly ride on Spanish and European roads and want to minimize discomfort caused by fatigue and poor road surfaces.