If you’ve ever watched the Tour de France or a WorldTour race, you’ve probably wondered: what bike saddles do the pros use? Pro cyclists ride for hours every day at the highest intensity, so their saddle choice is critical. The good news? Many of the same saddles the pros trust are available for everyday riders like you.
Why Pro Saddles Matter
Professional cyclists don’t pick saddles just for looks. They choose them for comfort, weight savings, and performance. A saddle that prevents numbness, reduces pressure, and provides efficient power transfer can make the difference between winning and losing. Teams often test multiple saddles to find the perfect fit for each rider.
Popular Saddles Used by Pro Riders
1. Fizik Antares and Arione
Fizik saddles are among the most common in the pro peloton. The Antares offers balanced support and versatility, while the Arione is long and flat, ideal for flexible riders who shift positions often.
2. Selle Italia SLR
The SLR series is a staple in professional cycling. Known for being lightweight and ergonomically designed, it’s a favorite among riders who demand both comfort and performance over long stages.
3. Prologo Dimension and Scratch M5
Prologo saddles are widely used in racing teams. The Dimension’s short-nose design supports aggressive aero positions, while the Scratch M5 provides comfort and stability for climbers and sprinters alike.
4. Specialized Power
The Specialized Power is another pro-level favorite. Its short nose and wide platform allow riders to stay comfortable in aero positions without sacrificing power transfer.
5. Brooks Cambium (select riders)
While less common in road racing, some endurance riders and ultra-distance athletes opt for Brooks Cambium saddles for their unique vibration-dampening comfort.
What This Means for Everyday Riders
The same saddles the pros use are available to you. Choosing one comes down to matching the saddle to your sit bone width, flexibility, and riding style. Whether you want Fizik’s race-proven Antares, Selle Italia’s legendary SLR, or Specialized’s innovative Power, you can ride with the same technology trusted at the sport’s highest level.
Final Thoughts
So, what bike saddles do the pros use? Fizik, Selle Italia, Prologo, and Specialized dominate the professional peloton. Each offers models designed for different body types and riding positions. By choosing the right saddle for your needs, you can experience the same comfort and performance as the world’s best cyclists.
FAQs
1. Do pros customize their saddles?
Yes. While many pros use stock models, some have custom padding, widths, or coverings to match their exact preferences.
2. Can I buy the same saddles used in the Tour de France?
Yes. Most pro-level saddles like the Fizik Antares, Selle Italia SLR, and Specialized Power are available for consumers.
3. Are pro saddles always the most comfortable?
Not necessarily. They’re the best for performance, but comfort depends on your sit bones and riding position. A bike fit can help you find the right one.
