Are you familiar with the saddle manufacturer Selle Anatomica? Characterized by a large cutout in the center of the saddle known as "THE SLOT," these saddles are highly favored by long-distance touring cyclists and participants in events like brevets. They are one-of-a-kind, handmade leather saddles manufactured exclusively in the United States.
Selle Anatomica was developed in 2007 by Tom Milton, a long-distance ultra-cyclist who drew upon his many years of cycling experience and research. Today, the development of these saddles is carried on by his family in San Diego, California, and each one is carefully handcrafted at their manufacturing facility in Wisconsin.
The saddle is one of the few contact points between the cyclist and their bike. It is no exaggeration to say that it plays a significant role in determining the comfort of your ride. Driven by the goal of creating a saddle that ensures comfort during long hours in the saddle, Tom Milton focused on the movement of the human body.
"THE SLOT," the cutout in the center, was designed based on the idea that since both legs move independently while pedaling, the saddle should be able to move flexibly in sync. This allows the sides of the saddle to move freely under the sit bones, minimizing stress on the seat surface to the greatest extent possible.
Whether you are traveling hundreds or thousands of kilometers, Selle Anatomica promises a comfortable ride. Of course, that comfort is also guaranteed for daily rides. If you aren't satisfied with the comfort of your current saddle, I highly recommend giving this a try.
Selle Anatomica “T-Series TruLeather Saddle”
Selle Anatomica “T-Series WaterShed Saddle”
Selle Anatomica “X-Series TruLeather Saddle”
Selle Anatomica “X-Series WaterShed Saddle”
Selle Anatomica “NSX-Series TruLeather Saddle”
Selle Anatomica “NSX-Series WaterShed Saddle”
The T-Series is a basic single-layer leather saddle. Because it is a single piece of leather, it conforms very flexibly, but it comes with a recommended weight limit of 73kg.
The X-Series features dual-laminated leather, which offers better longevity and is ideal for long-term riding. This model has a recommended weight limit of 113kg.
The NSX-Series is the solid-top version of the X-Series. It is recommended for those who aren't fans of cutouts but still want to experience the benefits of a leather saddle that conforms to you the more you use it.
Every model is available in two versions: TruLeather, made from carefully tanned genuine leather, and WaterShed, which features a specialized weather-resistant surface treatment. Both utilize natural leather, providing an authentic texture and high durability. Additionally, the saddle rails are longer than standard leather saddles, allowing for a wider range of fore-aft adjustment. Please note that while the WaterShed weather-resistant treatment is often mistaken for being waterproof, it does not provide waterproofing capabilities.
Furthermore, all the models introduced here feature base plates and saddle rails with a custom chrome-plated finish specified by SimWorks. Since standard retail models usually have a black finish, this custom spec is a welcome treat for those looking for the classic, polished aesthetic of a leather saddle!
Selle Anatomica “Saddle Sauce”
To enjoy one of the best parts of owning a leather saddle—maintenance—please use "Saddle Sauce." This specialized liquid for caring for and extending the life of your leather saddle can be used on both TruLeather and WaterShed models. The key is to clean off any surface dirt, and while dry, apply a thin layer in one direction not just to the seating surface, but also to the underside and edges of the saddle.
The leather will conform to you and stretch the more you use it, but be careful not to let it stretch too much; you will need to tension the leather periodically. Conversely, over-tensioning can reach the limit of the adjustment range, so it’s worth occasionally loosening the tension to let the leather rest. It truly is a saddle worth raising with care.
This might sound a bit complicated, but it is a saddle that guarantees a comfortable ride above all else. Please feel free to ask us if you have any questions about how to care for it. You are sure to be satisfied!