3D-printing has undeniably revolutionized top-tier saddles, but if the look of exposed padding structure isn’t your vibe, this new Repente Nomad 3D saddle just might be your jam. Instead of leaving the 3D-printed structure uncovered, Repente simply prints a smooth, closed TPU top onto their Nomad 3D saddle. The result… You effectively get the same zone-specific support that the other premium 3D-printed saddles promise. But you also get a much more classic-looking smooth cover to your saddle.
Repente Nomad 3D is a light carbon saddle with a smooth top
Sure, it’s not as smooth a finish as a classic leather or synthetic-topped saddle. But you didn’t buy a lightweight full carbon saddle with 3D-printed padding, if you don’t at least partially embrace the unique look of new tech.
So in the end, you get what Repente describes as a “pearly white finish” that hints at the internal structural patterning as it shimmers in the light. A saddle with additive manufacturing performance benefit of 3 specific support zones and classic covered saddle aesthetics.
Plus, there’s the extra bonus of the latest generation of Repente’s modular bolt-together RLS construction, meaning saddle rails could be replaced if ever needed at lower cost, with less waste.
What’s new?
The simple novelty here is what Repente describes as “3D printed padding with a homogeneous surface“.
3D-printing opened up new possibilities in saddle support & comfort, thanks to the ability to infinitely vary padding density across multiple areas of a saddle. But every other 3D-printed saddle I have tried has an open lattice structure. That’s not all that bad of a thing, if you like the look. But if you don’t, you were out of luck until now. Personally, I ride a lot in wet & dirty conditions, and I end up cleaning a lot of crud out of 3D-printed saddle tops. And some are harder than others to really get the dirt & grit out. Also some honeycomb-structured saddles tend to grab, and even abrade certain cycling shorts more than others. It’s not an issue I have experienced, but I’ve heard other riders complain.
I can’t say that a white saddle is the best alternative for my muddy riding. But at least the gunk should be easier to wipe off.
Tech details
- unique 3D-printed TPU padding with an integral closed cover top
- narrow, flat saddle shape
- 3 main padding density zones: firmest under the sit bones for maximum support; most relaxed under soft tissue for flexible load distribution
- lower central anatomical channel to relieve perineal pressure
- full UD carbon shell
- 7x9mm oval UD carbon rails
- RLS modular construction allows independent replacement of rails or padding-topped shell, with reduced cost and waste
- 260mm long x 142mm wide
- 180g claimed weight
- 100% made in Italy
Repente Nomad 3D saddle – Pricing & availability
For now, the flat Repente Nomad 3D saddle is only available in a single 142mm width and only with the pearl white color of the 3D-printed TPU padding and integrated cover. The made-in-Italy saddle sells for 350€, and is available now directly from Repente.
First time buyers can even get a 10% discount when you subscribe to their newsletter.
The post Repente Nomad 3D-Prints a Saddle That Actually Looks Finished, with a Smooth Top appeared first on Bikerumor.