Blaster, even with its minimal padding, is a comfortable bike saddle because it embeds all the concepts of our patented “Designed on Your Body” ergonomics. Comfortable bike saddle.
There are those who want the saddle not padded and those who want little padding.
For us each saddle is not a point of arrival but of departure. All our successful models are the basis for creating new saddles. Blaster is one example. It all started with some professional athletes using the Composit, a completely unpadded yet very comfortable saddle. It is well known that advanced cyclists are very sensitive to the reactions of their bikes. A padded saddle could affect this perception. And it is also known that advanced cyclists are very demanding, and with good reason considering the stresses to which they subject their bodies. So demanding as to ask for a slightly padded saddle, but not too much, and with the same technical characteristics as the Composit.
Each SMP saddle is like a tailored suit
We have created a customized prototype with the same hull as the Composit and the same sitting surface as the ischial tuberosities. The only difference? A light padding spread over the entire saddle. The field tests fully met expectations and the Blaster was born.
Choosing a saddle must respect the anatomy of your body
Riding the bike constantly and for many hours can lead to a series of problems that can vary depending on the age and time spent in the saddle. There are three points of contact with the bicycle: pedals, handlebar and saddle. The correct handlebar grip, the shoes and cleats positioned in the right place, the pedals, but also the padding of the shorts are not to be underestimated. But it is certainly the choice of the wrong saddle that can cause a series of issues for men ranging from prostatic inflammation to decreased genital sensitivity and even impotence. In women, however, the intensive use of the bicycle with a saddle that does not respect the anatomy can cause vaginitis and cystitis. In addition, continuous trauma of the pelvis on the saddle can cause compression of the pudendal nerve resulting in numbness of the genital area.
Our saddles put to the test by two scientific studies
One of our guiding values in recent years has been research. All our saddles have been designed and developed with the contribution of athletes from different disciplines, but our vocation, constantly aimed at the well-being of the cyclist, has gone further. We asked a team of doctors, experts in cyclist pathologies, to carry out two scientific studies: the first on a male sample of cyclists, the second on a female sample.
Using special sensors, the pressure exerted on the genital area and its consequences were assessed on both samples of athletes. The result was clear and unequivocal: SMP saddles limit the crushing of the genitals, improving blood circulation. Better blood circulation is essential to protect the nervous and vascular structures and give more oxygenation to the soft parts. These studies have shown that the pressure at the perineal level is due more to the shape and geometry of the saddle rather than to the padding.
On the health side of cyclists, the peculiarity of the female anatomy must be considered. Disorders of the female genital area are sometimes more complex and different than male ones. It can range from common skin irritations caused by rubbing to folliculitis, nodules, temporary numbness of the clitoris, swelling of the labia majora up to epidermal infections. Indeed, cyclists have a harder time finding the right saddle for their needs. And also in this case, in addition to our patented ergonomics, the numerous models developed on indication and tests carried out with some professional athletes come to our aid.
An ergonomic saddle also improves your performance
When choosing a saddle, always remember that you can improve your performance. You can choose it according to your riding style: aggressive or resilient. The type of bike you use: racing, mtb, triathlon, gravel, e-bike. And also to the geometry of your bike. But the only choice that improves your performance is well-being and comfort, in other words ergonomics.
Blaster, even with its minimal padding, is a comfortable bike saddle because it embeds all the concepts of our patented “Designed on Your Body” ergonomics. Comfortable bike saddle. There are those who want the saddle not padded and those who want little padding.For us each saddle is not a point of arrival but of departure. […]
It will be an exciting end of the season for Selle SMP, thanks to important off-road partnerships.
Gravel and Cyclocross are very important market segments for the pioneer and leader in ergonomic saddles.
It starts on Sunday 16 October with Marca Bianca Gravel, an inclusive event, reserved for any type of bicycle that can tackle routes with dirt roads (gravel, cyclocross, mountain bikes, e-bikes, suitably rubberized road bicycles). It was born within the Gravel in the Land of Venice project, with the organizational and technical collaboration of Pedali di Marca, AMG Alta Marca Gravel and the logistical support of Montello a Tavola.
It then continues with the confirmation of the most important Cyclocross circuit in Italy, the Master Cross Selle SMP. Five tests, four of which international, which will attract the best interpreters of this discipline.
Here is the calendar:
- 29-30 October - Brugherio (International)
- 20 November - Serravalle Castle (National)
- 4 December - Vittorio Veneto (International)
- 8 December - Faè di Oderzo (International)
- 28 December - San Francesco al Campo (International)
Follow us on our social networks to stay tuned on these events and all the Selle SMP news:
It will be an exciting end of the season for Selle SMP, thanks to important off-road partnerships. Gravel and Cyclocross are very important market segments for the pioneer and leader in ergonomic saddles. It starts on Sunday 16 October with Marca Bianca Gravel, an inclusive event, reserved for any type of bicycle that can tackle […]
The Selle SMP handlebar tape for gravel bikes and racing bikes comes in two models: GRIP 2.0 and GRIP Gel 2.0
The tape for the handlebar of our bike can seem like an accessory that is not very meaningful and sometimes even underestimated. It actually makes a difference in the comfort and driveability of the bike. And also on its look, not secondary for lovers of aesthetics.
The new bartapes are Made in Italy with the highest quality materials, are very comfortable and have a coating that allows a high grip in all conditions.
Vibration absorption is optimal thanks to the HPP 2.0 (High Performance Polymer 2.0) polymer structure, an innovative compound created in the Selle SMP laboratories. This material, in addition to absorbing vibrations, is a guarantee of comfort, high performance and durability.
A handlebar tape can make a real difference on our bike, especially if it’s a gravel bike. The routes covered with this type of bike are varied: rough terrain, rain, mud and dust. In this case we recommend the GRIP Gel version which, thanks to the increased thickness (3 mm) and the internal self-modeling Gel layer, guarantees the highest level of comfort and vibration absorption.
Another important aspect is the assembly of the bartape, a simple operation if done following precise rules. Selle SMP handlebar tapes have excellent elasticity to facilitate handlebar taping.
You just have to enjoy the Made in Italy quality of GRIP 2.0 and GRIP Gel 2.0, choosing the model that best suits your needs.
The Selle SMP handlebar tape for gravel bikes and racing bikes comes in two models: GRIP 2.0 and GRIP Gel 2.0 The tape for the handlebar of our bike can seem like an accessory that is not very meaningful and sometimes even underestimated. It actually makes a difference in the comfort and driveability of the […]
Alessandro Fabian, European Champion and several times Italian Triathlon Champion. He participated in the Olympic Games in London and Rio De Janeiro. A career in which Alessandro followed his Olympic spirit. Three Olympic four-year-olds, the last one affected by the Covid which complicated Alessandro's personal situation a lot, moving time forward.
And finally the new dimension of father, who has brought various things into play, like the transition from the Olympic Sprint to the half Ironman: “With long distances I feel like I'm young again, I had to look for a new balance because it changes a lot between the two disciplines: the rhythm, the materials ... in short, a completely different approach. A new challenge that gave me the right incentives to get back into the game ”.
Triathlon is often seen as a difficult sport
It seems complex because there are three disciplines, but in reality it’s all accessible. The problem can be swimming, especially for those who are new to this sport. I was lucky because I come from swimming, but I started late at 18. I had a team from Padua that helped me a lot at the beginning and above all the family that supported me.
Any advice you can give to young people who want to approach triathlon
If you are not very familiar with swimming, concentrate on this discipline because it’s the one that puts you most in difficulty in all types of competitions. Take it as a challenge to yourself and you will see that in the end even swimming becomes as fluid as running and cycling.
And above all a recommendation also to parents: the approach to triathlon must be pure fun, because it’s a very demanding sport and the workouts are intense and take time. The risk is, over the years, of accumulating too much fatigue and giving up everything. Furthermore, a good technique and a good group of close-knit guys who can grow together and be able to make the leap into professionalism are needed.
Some technical advice when starting to compete or even simply riding a bike for pure pleasure
Choosing your equipment carefully is very important. In particular, the saddle is essential, especially when riding over long distances. In the saddle you have to be comfortable otherwise you pedal unwillingly and numerous complications can arise. I have had several bad experiences with previous saddles. Thanks to the advice of the Selle SMP technicians, I arrived at the VT30C Gel almost immediately. It’s perfect for my wide sit bones, moreover it’s the right compromise: neither too dry nor too soft. Right from the start I had a great feeling with VT30C Gel.
Bike fitting, saddle setup, ... how important it is for the cyclist
I highly recommend it not only to those who compete, but also to those who ride for pure pleasure and do many kilometers. The adjustment of the bike and therefore also of the saddle to adapt it to your physical and functional needs is too important. I'll give an example, again based on my experience: when I started riding, my saddle was too inclined. After several experiences, only thanks to the bike fitter I was able to find the correct position, certainly gaining in performance and well-being.
Alessandro Fabian's next goals
The Italian half Ironman Championship scheduled in October in Puglia, where I expect to reach the podium.
Alessandro Fabian, European Champion and several times Italian Triathlon Champion. He participated in the Olympic Games in London and Rio De Janeiro. A career in which Alessandro followed his Olympic spirit. Three Olympic four-year-olds, the last one affected by the Covid which complicated Alessandro’s personal situation a lot, moving time forward. And finally the new […]
In the last months we have launched the new VT Gel series (VT30 Gel, VT30C Gel, VT20 Gel, VT30C Gel) which have been promptly tested by the most important Italian bike magazines:
MtbCult.it tried out the VT30C Gel, read the article
Bicidastrada.it reviewed the VT20C Gel, here you find the article
Cyclinside.it, also this magazine, which offers several technical tips about bikes, tested the VT20C Gel, here the article
In the last months we have launched the new VT Gel series (VT30 Gel, VT30C Gel, VT20 Gel, VT30C Gel) which have been promptly tested by the most important Italian bike magazines: MtbCult.it tried out the VT30C Gel, read the article Bicidastrada.it reviewed the VT20C Gel, here you find the article Cyclinside.it, also this magazine, […]
You have strayed from the usual routes to try new roads.
You have discovered the magical nature of dirt tracks, minor roads and being close to nature.
You have reached a state of mind that is less bound by constraints and preconceptions.
We have created the new VT Gel Series to meet the demands of off-road and long-distance cycling typical of Gravel. With Gel incorporated in the padding, the new VT Gel makes even the most difficult and demanding routes easier, and even more comfortable and durable.
Patented ergonomics
The comfort of the VT GEL range is ensured by the patented ergonomic features ‘Designed on Your Body’: a central channel, eagle-beak tip, geometric support surface, rear depression and tube rail design.
The comfort of Gel and excellent materials
Polyurethane Gel coupled with SSPU padding creates a perfect cushioning system to absorb the repeated stresses typical of Gravel.
Safety and quality are guaranteed by using the best materials for the structural elements of the saddle: high-modulus unidirectional carbon fibre, AISI 304 alloy and carbon-fibre reinforced nylon 12 for the shell and rail.
The SVT Velvet Touch cover ensures high resistance, even in the toughest conditions.
How to choose the right model
The VT Gel range consists of four new models:
VT20C Gel – short saddle with narrow surface. For sit bones width up to 12.5 cm
VT20 Gel – narrow surface. For sit bones width up to 12.5 cm
VT30C Gel - short saddle with wide surface. For sit bones width up to 12.6 cm
VT30 Gel – wide surface. For sit bones width up to 12.6 cm
You have strayed from the usual routes to try new roads. You have discovered the magical nature of dirt tracks, minor roads and being close to nature. You have reached a state of mind that is less bound by constraints and preconceptions. We have created the new VT Gel Series to meet the demands of […]
An important history that has evolved alongside the bicycle, or rather, with bicycle saddles.
The bicycle, instead, has been around for 200 years, a number that also represents an evolutionary path, without eras, generations or boundaries. Many things have changed, but some of them are like permanent features that have always been around, and the saddle is one of these. They have certainly changed, but saddles are a mainstay in the centuries-long history of cycling.
In 1947, in the immediate post-war period, Italy was a country in need of reconstruction but, as we know, misfortunes can also lead to opportunities. Strength and tenacity were required in order to deploy the spirit of initiative. There was a desire to give shape to ideas and this is precisely what inspired Martino Schiavon, who produced bicycle saddles in an attic in the centre of Padua. Our history began right here, with a bold and fearless craftsman.
Craftsmanship and handmade, courage and devotion to our own land, all these concepts are in our DNA and are part of the way we work. But the path of a company is like a cobbled street made of many porphyry stones, which are all different yet all necessary. In 1970, for example, we produced one million saddles, and in 1990 we reached the six million mark. However, the fundamental aspects still focus on our family, the principle value, and our devotion to high-quality work, which does not fear a globalised market.
Even today, one of our greatest successes is having maintained and consolidated the entire Selle SMP production in the Veneto region. Our company is part of an economic system that represents the driving force of Italy and Europe. This is a source of pride and satisfaction for us.
Today, Selle SMP is headed by Franco and Maurizio Schiavon, the sons of Martino, who remained in the role of president until just before he died in 2006.
Both Maurizio and Franco have clear memories of their career paths within the company. Such memories are not easily forgotten because they dwell in the heart:
Maurizio Schiavon “Everyone calls me an entrepreneur, but if I look back - and looking back is certainly essential to being able to look ahead - I still remember my father’s words, the phrase, when he told me: “Look, if you want, there's room here for you too”, referring to the workshop we had below our house. I began by working my way up and making deliveries, and even today, although time has passed, I feel a bit like a shop boy and still a craftsman, certainly a skilled craftsman but, nevertheless, a Craftsman.”
Franco Schiavon: “I joined the company at the age of 22, after my language studies, although during the school holidays my father always called me because he needed help. I was happy to help out. I worked my way up to learn the job, and then I started to deal with the business aspect. The best memory I have is of my first customer in Salzburg. In addition to a professional relationship, we have developed a good friendship.”
And following in the footsteps of Franco and Maurizio are their offspring, the third generation of Selle SMP. Because for us it is a tradition, a family passion and there is still a long way to go in the saddle.
An important history that has evolved alongside the bicycle, or rather, with bicycle saddles. The bicycle, instead, has been around for 200 years, a number that also represents an evolutionary path, without eras, generations or boundaries. Many things have changed, but some of them are like permanent features that have always been around, and the […]
More than a month has passed since the Olympic appointment but the emotions are still very much alive for our triathlete Fernando Alarza. Happy with his twelfth place, Fernando tells his story by showing great awareness.
Welcome back Fernando, how are you?
Well, happy and satisfied with the work done during these months
What can you tell us about this Olympic experience (it is the second one)?
Yes, it was my second participation at the Olympics. They were an Olympic Games more different than usual due to the pandemic, but they are always very special in term of environment, athletes and all other aspects.
What were the most difficult moments?
Above all, the most difficult moments were those experienced during the pandemic, in 2020 with all the uncertainty that it caused us and with the difficulties that it caused us in our preparation.
What did you bring home from this experience?
A plus in my sports career. It is a professional experience that few people can achieve, it is the most important sporting event in the world.
How did you prepare for this date?
I can really say that I have linked some Olympics with others, thanks to the fact that I have remained in the top 5 of the World during an Olympic cycle. That has been preparing and mentalizing me for the appointment.
Even so, the preparation has been hard, I have spent many weeks a year away from home, concentrating in altitude and in Alicante to get used to the heat and humidity.
What are the main aspects to take into account when approaching such an important appointment?
Discipline, work, being willing to sacrifice many things in your life, from day to day, such as not being able to be with my family and my daughter.
How important is the head and the mental focus to achieve good results in a race of this type?
It is essential, mental capacity is very important when it comes to getting your maximum performance. Especially in those moments when it seems like you can't take it anymore, but you have to try positive thinking.
What did you think when you crossed the finish line?
It's over, I was OLYMPIC again. The goal that I had had in my head for so many months of giving my best had come to an end, I had achieved it.
How much physical and mental fatigue have these Olympic Games cost you?
Much, the Olympic Games require 100% physical and mental delivery
I suppose you are now taking a well-deserved vacation ...
Yes, it was what I wanted most after finishing, to be able to spend time with my family.
Your next big goals?
For the rest of the season I don't have great goals, I do want to make the leap little by little to the middle distance, so I will do a test in October, and two races in Spain with my team.
More than a month has passed since the Olympic appointment but the emotions are still very much alive for our triathlete Fernando Alarza. Happy with his twelfth place, Fernando tells his story by showing great awareness. Welcome back Fernando, how are you? Well, happy and satisfied with the work done during these months What can […]
When we launch a new saddle, our priority is always rider's comfort and well-being.
So it was also with VT30C, the first model of the VT Series, apparently traditional but with all the ergonomic features patented by Selle SMP: the completely open central channel and the "eagle's beak" tip to favor the natural blood flow and avoid any compression to the private parts; the longest rail in the market to allow everyone to always find the right position in the saddle; the rear depression to protect the coccyx from impacts and kickbacks.
After two years from the presentation of VT30C and its great success all over the world, we expands VT Series with three new models: VT20, VT20C and VT30.
The goal is to provide more and more options to fit the body features and needs of each cyclist, just like a tailored suit.
VT20
142 mm wide, it is perfect for cyclists with a medium-narrow pelvis (sit bones width between 9 and 12.5 cm).
VT20C
Compact version of VT20, with a length of 255 mm.
VT20C is ideal for cyclists with a medium-narrow pelvis (sit bones width between 9 and 12.5 cm).
VT30
Wider version of VT20 (155 mm width), it is suitable for cyclists with a medium-wide pelvis (sit bones width between 12.6 and 15 cm).
Technology
Every detail is carefully studied: from the special padding in SSPU to the shell in Nylon 12 loaded with carbon fiber, passing through the special Velvet Touch cover and the rail in AISI 304 stainless steel tube Matt Black.
VT20, VT20C and VT30 are available with both AISI 304 steel tube or unidirectional carbon fiber rail.
Suggested use
All VT models are unisex and perfect for any type of use: road, mountain bike and gravel. In addition, the two compact saddles VT20C and VT30C are also ideal for triathlon.
Do you want to find your ideal model?
With Saddle Finder, you're done in seconds!
When we launch a new saddle, our priority is always rider’s comfort and well-being. So it was also with VT30C, the first model of the VT Series, apparently traditional but with all the ergonomic features patented by Selle SMP: the completely open central channel and the “eagle’s beak” tip to favor the natural blood flow […]
Why a specific saddle line? What are our needs when riding an e-bike?
Riding an electric bicycle, even for long distances, requires less effort thanks to the help of the engine. However the weight of our body is less supported by the push of the legs on the pedals and weighs more on the saddle.
The position on an e-bike is much less subject to the changes in position and weight shifts often necessary on the traditional bike. For example, on the electric bike there is no need to get up on the pedals often to overcome demanding stretches or to relaunch the thrust. In this way the pressure on the genitals and perineal area is almost never relieved.
Furthermore - as a recent study by the University of Zurich – on average we ride an e-bike for more hours a week than traditional bicycles.
These factors increase the most common issues to the genitals and perineal area, such as numbness, tingling and pain, for both men and women.
The exclusive Selle SMP ergonomics, applied to the E-BIKE Concept range, relieves pressure from the genitals and perineal area. The special geometries of differentiated density padding and the additional Gel layer reduce the pressure on the sit bones by 30%.
The result is great comfort and well-being for all the electric bike lovers.
The new matt black Velvet Touch cover guarantees great durability and resistance.
Our new range of saddles covers all types of use and consists of 4 models: E-CITY, E-TRK, E-SPORT Medium and E-SPORT Large.
Let's see in detail the new E-BIKE Concept models:
E-CITY: saddle with large shapes and generous padding, it’s perfect for traditional and folding electric city bikes, where the position is comfortable and the weight of the body rests mainly on the sit bones.
E-SPORT: model developed for mountain bikes, road and gravel bikes, where our position is more reclined, with a significant forward rotation of the pelvis and less load on the sit bones.
E-SPORT is available in two different widths, E-SPORT Medium and E-SPORT Large, to match all physical configurations.
E-TRK: the most versatile saddle in the E-BIKE Concept range. Designed for tourism and trekking, E-TRK balances comfort and performance and is an excellent choice for any type of bike.
The E-BIKE Concept range has all the ergonomic features patented by Selle SMP:
- the fully open channel and the typical "eagle's beak" tip avoids genital and perineal compression for a natural blood flow.
- the length of the rail allows maximum fore-aft saddle adjustment and its geometry helps a more stable position in the saddle, increasing pedaling efficiency and reducing waste of energy.
- the raised rear helps to keep the right position in the saddle, especially in the accelerations typical of the electric bike and when facing steep slopes. The ergonomic design protects the coccyx from shocks and trauma.
Why a specific saddle line? What are our needs when riding an e-bike? Riding an electric bicycle, even for long distances, requires less effort thanks to the help of the engine. However the weight of our body is less supported by the push of the legs on the pedals and weighs more on the saddle. […]