Test / Saddle: With the Stealth 3D, Pro presents a 3D-printed saddle that retains the familiar Stealth shape but is deliberately not optimized for every last gram. Three mesh zones of varying densities are designed to prevent pressure points and absorb vibrations. We rode the saddle for half a season on a gravel bike and an e-mountain bike – and discovered an advantage that isn't listed in any spec sheet.
Comfort instead of lightweight construction: an unusual statement
3D-printed saddles are typically sold on the market using two arguments: low weight and exclusivity. Pro reverses this logic with the Stealth 3D. The manufacturer explicitly positions the saddle as the most comfortable model in the Stealth series – not the lightest. This isn't a side note, but the foundation of the entire concept.
According to Pro, the development is based on pressure measurement data from bike fittings as well as feedback from test riders. These discussions revealed that while the existing Stealth saddles are perceived as comfortable, some riders would be willing to accept additional weight for greater comfort. The manufacturer explicitly targets those who compete on cobblestones or frequently ride on poorly maintained asphalt.
Anton Peeters, responsible for saddle design at Pro, explains the approach with the possibilities of the manufacturing process: such a fine gradation of density is not achievable with conventional, lightweight foam. This is precisely the core technical argument – and it's worth taking a closer look.
Why 3D printing makes a difference when it comes to saddles
In a traditional foam-padded saddle, the padding is essentially a homogeneous block. Whether the saddle needs to be softer or firmer is primarily controlled by the thickness of the material and the shape of the shell. The material density itself remains largely constant across the surface.
A printed grid works differently. Here, cell size, strut thickness, and grid spacing can be locally modified – theoretically millimeter by millimeter. A single component can thus be used to create areas with completely different spring behavior, without the need to glue or weld multiple materials together. This is precisely what Pro utilizes in Stealth 3D.
In addition, the manufacturer emphasizes a second effect: the hexagonal cell structure provides cushioning not only as a whole, but each cell individually. This is intended to reduce road vibrations and thus lower fatigue on long journeys – an argument that is naturally more difficult to quantify in practical testing than a weight specification.
Three mesh zones and what they are supposed to do
Specifically, Pro divides the 3D-printed EPU padding into three areas. The front zone, in the area of the saddle nose, is the densest. It is designed to support the sit bones when the rider leans far forward – i.e., in the aerodynamic position for which the Stealth series was originally developed.
The central zone operates at a medium density. Its purpose is to distribute weight over a larger area, especially in a more upright riding position, thus preventing concentrated pressure points. The rear section, on the other hand, is the most open and has the lowest density. Since this area has minimal contact while pedaling, Pro saves weight here – and simultaneously exposes the cell structure, giving the saddle its characteristic appearance.
The cells are not uniform: they become narrower and denser towards the front, and larger and more open towards the back. This is complemented by a structured top surface, which, according to the manufacturer, is designed to provide grip – even during sprints out of the saddle.
Variants, dimensions and weight
The Stealth 3D is available in two versions. The Team version features carbon rails and weighs from 224 grams, while the Performance version uses INOX stainless steel rails and weighs from 260 grams. Both versions are available in 142 and 152 millimeter widths. The saddle shell is carbon-reinforced in both cases, and the Triple Bridge design with its continuous anatomical cutout is familiar from other Stealth models. It is compatible with Pro's saddle accessories. At €289,95 for the Performance version and €329,95 for the Team version, the Pro Stealth 3D is a pricey purchase, but within the typical range for high-performance 3D-printed saddles.
The weight specifications alone make it clear that Pro is serious about its claim: the Stealth 3D is not a lightweight component compared to other 3D-printed saddles. Whether the extra material used in the saddle makes a noticeable difference was the central question of our practical test.
The Pro Stealth 3D in practical testing
We tested the saddle for half a season on various bikes. It racked up the majority of the mileage on a gravel bike – the type of bike the manufacturer primarily intends it for. It was also mounted on an e-mountain bike. We rode the 142-millimeter version.
A preliminary note, as it's part of any saddle test: Our tester is relatively insensitive to fit and rarely experiences problems with other saddles. Those known to be sensitive to saddle surfaces should consider the following impressions accordingly.
Fit: 142 millimeters on narrow sit bones
In theory, our test width was rather generous – 142 millimeters would have been ample on paper for our tester's relatively narrow sit bones. In practice, however, this caused no problems whatsoever. The short saddle nose is a particularly positive feature, allowing plenty of freedom of movement and not hindering forward and backward sliding on the saddle. The large, continuous cutout in the middle also performs well: no numbness or similar discomfort occurred during the entire test period.
More muscular than the competition – with consequences for the seating position
Visually and to the touch, the Stealth 3D is significantly more robust and thicker than many other 3D-printed saddles. It's certainly not a sofa, though. Rather, it gives the impression that the technology has been used effectively: the saddle yields where flexibility is needed and provides support where it's required.
The thicker padding does have a side effect that's worth being aware of: it tends to push the rider into a slightly more stretched-out position. On a gravel bike, this fits in well with the overall design. On a mountain bike, where the saddle is already somewhat unsuited for a different purpose, it felt less natural – it wasn't uncomfortable, but the saddle felt noticeably more at home on a gravel bike. Anyone planning to use the Stealth 3D on a mountain bike should factor this into their setup.
The underestimated advantage: closed flanks
The most interesting finding of the test concerns a detail that is rarely mentioned in product communication. On most 3D-printed saddles, the grid structure is open-pored all around. This looks spectacular, but has a practical disadvantage: you can feel the structure through your shorts, especially when you sweat. On short rides without padded shorts – not uncommon on a mountain bike – this leads to chafing after a while. Not because the saddle is pinching, but simply because of the surface structure.
This isn't the case with the Stealth 3D. The side sections are closed at the top, while the rear section remains open-pored. The result: Even without padded cycling shorts, the saddle remained unobtrusive. This might be a niche feature for many buyers, but anyone using the saddle on an everyday or after-work bike will appreciate this point.
Processing, durability and the handle of the brush
The workmanship and assembly gave no cause for complaint in the test. Even after being heavily exposed to dirt and a number of muddy rides, the saddle remained completely silent – no creaking or cracking occurred at any time.
The downside lies in the maintenance, and it's not a problem unique to this model. Once mud accumulates in the open-pored rear area, cleaning becomes tedious. This applies to almost all 3D-printed saddles and is the price of the structure. However, because the Stealth 3D saddle doesn't have an open surface, the problem affects a smaller area than some competitors.
Weight remains the crucial factor.
Anyone buying a 3D-printed saddle with carbon rails usually has weight in mind. And this is where the Stealth 3D's clear weakness lies. For its price range, it's not exactly lightweight; in our estimation, comparable competitor models weigh around 50 grams less. Anyone who consistently optimizes their bike for weight will have to think this through carefully.
To be fair, Pro hasn't hidden this compromise, but rather made it part of their product strategy. And if a saddle truly fits and remains comfortable for hours, then 50 grams is a worthwhile addition.
