As a multi-decade avid cyclist, I have been through far too many pairs of cycling shoes and cycling saddles trying to find that magic 'perfect' product. The Selle Italia SLR Boost 3D TI 316 Superflow Saddle is the perfect saddle for me, my search is done.
This saddle combines the very best qualities of what a saddle should be. For me, those qualities are 1) a generous and effective cut-out, 2) a saddle shape at the point where the leading part of the saddle meets the legs during pedaling, and 3) the perfect amount of cushioning.
Many top-level bike fitters online sing the praises of this saddle and having put in over 1,000 miles on the saddle, I am in complete agreement, this saddle delivers everything I need. When I can consistently put in 3-4 hour days and not once ever even think about the saddle, to me that means that I have found the perfect saddle for me.
My only slight negative for the product is that with the newer 3D technology, this saddle is at a higher price point. Given that, if I was asked if I would pay this price and I could be sure that the product was perfect, I would always answer "Yes". The good news is the saddle is available at multiple price levels if the 3D technology is not something that you need.
Unfortunately, the perfect saddle for a particular rider is extremely specific to the individual rider. While this is my perfect saddle, it may not be the perfect saddle for every rider. What I can confidently say is that while every rider is unique, this saddle has the general qualities that will be what many riders are looking for.
JWanted to replace my 15 years old Selle Italia SLR TI 316 with this 3D printed saddle hoping to improve the ride comfort. The problem for me is that the edges of cutout are too sharp. I dealt with this issue for years and hoped for improvement. Unfortunately this problem is the same with new 3D printed so I had to return it. This saddles are in production for ages, so apparently that is just not for me.
size: S3 (130mm)
weight as measured: 210g
used with Assos Mille GTO bib shorts
time of use: about 37 hours indoor and outdoor combined
I've used several saddles on several road and mountain bikes. Even though this model is intended for racing it's still the most comfortable I've ever used. I started using the endurance-oriented Assos bibs for about a year before I got this and found an improvement in comfort and then got more improvement with this saddle. The combination of this race saddle with the endurance shorts works well for me. I can clearly feel how the race cut profile minimizes restriction of leg movement. A modern touring model using the same 3D technology like Selle's new Novus Boost Evo 3D might be more comfortable for some. I like this lighter, more compact one for now.
I occasionally get out of the saddle for relief but this is the first one I didn't have to fight with all day.
The surface has a high level of friction. If you demand ease of fore-aft body movement that could be an issue.
The open structure provides great ventilation. Cleaning it might be an issue. You'd have to be careful not to spill your sports drink or your spumoni on it. Otherwise a great saddle.
