When I opened the Reprieve saddle that 3 West Design was kind enough to send me I knew I was in for a treat. While it may look similar to your traditional saddle, it is worlds different. This saddle provides an innovative design to something most cyclists have assumed is just the way it has always been and always will be. So say goodbye to numbness and discomfort and get ready to improve your comfort and ride.
The average saddle is nearly flat straight across (go ahead and check yours now if you don‘t believe me). However, the Reprieve provides a ¾ inch drop between your sit bones and your perineum. This drop allows space for your soft tissue where other saddles don‘t. However, they did not eliminate the nose while designing the Reprieve. Because of this, the drop in the saddle still has support where you need it and the rear of the saddle remains a solid surface for your sit bones. You don‘t need to worry about wasted energy or power.
On top of all of that, the Reprieve saddle is customizable. It’s built with a bladder in the “active surface” portion. This lets you control how hard or soft, and how much support you need where the soft tissue sits. Personally, I set mine to about a half full bladder for a smooth, comfortable ride. If you are worried about your first ride, don’t sweat it. It comes with a pump that is small, extremely lightweight, and portable. You can take it with you until the active surface is adjusted to suit your needs. This bladder is the key to the success of the Reprieve.
I found the interactive surface supportive, yet not so much in that it causes the compression and numbness you may find with your current saddle. This active surface is one of the biggest adjustments when switching to this saddle. It took a ride or two to get used to and adjusted properly. Once set to an optimal pressure, and getting my sit bones in the right spot in relation to the drop in the mid-saddle, it provides for an unmatched ride. If you are having trouble adjusting, check out the helpful videos 3 West has on their website: http://www.3westdesign.com/new-saddle-set-up-videos.html.
3 West design was started by your ordinary bicycle enthusiast looking to improve his ride. These dreams became a reality through a Kickstarter, hard work, and perseverance. Their product was designed in the U.S. and is built to last. The seat cover is made with durable leather and supported by hollowed titanium alloy rails. Additionally, the Reprieve saddle weighs in at only 265 grams. It is strong enough for the most aggressive riders out there, while light enough for the most competitive. You get the whole package for $195. This may seem steep, but in the world of aftermarket saddles and the quality of product you are receiving is quite competitive. Again, a big thank you to 3 West Design for allowing me to review and enjoy a more comfortable ride with their Reprieve saddle.
Calvin