The difference between 3D-printed saddles from Posedla and other brands.
Over the past four years, we've helped thousands of riders in more than 50 countries solve one of cycling’s most frustrating problems: saddle discomfort. We weren’t the first to 3D-print saddles — but we’re the first to make them truly custom, from shape to stiffness to support. And now that more brands are entering the 3D-printed space, we think it’s time for a clear, honest comparison — so you can decide what real customization looks like.
Custom, Customized, or Mass-Produced? →
At Posedla, custom isn’t a buzzword — it’s our foundation. We don’t just tweak presets. We design your Joyseat around you. Thanks to our unique process, each saddle is made in a completely individualized width (anywhere between 130–170 mm, in 1 mm increments), and shaped to match your sit bone imprint, flexibility, and riding style. We also personalize the stiffness zone-by-zone to support your specific needs.
Market Situation →
The only other customization method available today involves choosing from a limited range of preset saddle shapes and widths, with stiffness adjusted to pressure points. It requires an in-person visit to select fitting partners. Mass-produced saddles are even more limited — offering just a few sizes, making the right choice difficult.
Here’s a Breakdown of the Differences
| Feature | Posedla Custom Saddle | Semi-Custom Saddles | Mass-Produced Saddles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Width Options | Fully custom (130–170 mm in 1 mm increments) | Predefined range of widths | Only limited options (up to 3–4 sizes) |
| Shape Variability | Tailored to individual anatomy and riding style | Select presets available to choose from | Fixed shapes available to choose from |
| Stiffness Tuning | Personalized zone-by-zone stiffness based on rider data | Pressure-mapped adjustments | Uniform stiffness is mostly the case |
| Fitting Process | Remote fitting via Smiling Butt Kit and configurator | In-person fitting required | No online or in-person fitting required |
| Accessibility | Available online, worldwide delivery | Limited to select locations | Availability via retailers, dealers or online |
The Science Behind Sit Bone Sizing
Smiling Butt Kit Accuracy →
Our recent clinical study confirmed the precision of our Smiling Butt Kit, showing it can measure your sit bone width with up to 1 mm accuracy — all from the comfort of home. Traditional methods (like cardboard cutouts, gel pads, or even digital pressure mats) can be off by as much as 20 mm, making our unique imprint process one of the most reliable ways to get your perfect fit.
Saddle Width Importance →
This chart compares sit bone width data from our customer base (green bars) with results from a clinical study using pelvic CT scans (red line). The strong correlation confirms the accuracy of our Smiling Butt Kit and highlights just how unique every cyclist’s anatomy is. That’s why a truly custom saddle isn’t a luxury — it’s essential for lasting comfort.
Upright vs. Riding Position →
We know your posture while taking the measurement differs from how you sit on the bike. That’s why we don’t rely on sit bone width alone. Our algorithm adjusts the measured value using key factors like your flexibility, riding style, and bike type — ensuring your custom saddle is precisely tuned to how you actually ride.
Fully Custom Approach
Parametric Modelling →
Our saddles are shaped using parametric modelling — a method where key variables like size, shape, and stiffness drive the design. This approach lets us create endless, precise variations based on your unique anatomy and ride data, ensuring every saddle is made to fit you, not just a preset size.
Patented Comfort, Driven by Our 3S System →
Parametric design powers our proprietary 3S system — Size, Shape, and Stiffness — unlocking endless saddle variations. With 10 input parameters, we fine-tune everything from width to stiffness zones and nose shape. The result: a saddle precision-fit to your anatomy and riding style.
The Perfect Size →
While most saddles come in just 2 or 3 widths, we offer a truly custom fit — with widths from 130 to 170 mm, adjustable in 1 mm increments. That means no guesswork, no compromises — just the perfect size for your unique anatomy.
The Perfect Shape →
Most brands offer just a few fixed saddle shapes. With Joyseat, we tailor the profile to your body and riding style — from flat to curved, and everything in between. It’s custom shaping made to support how you ride.
