Tadej Pogacar is using a Fizik One-to-One custom 3D-printed saddle at the 2026 Tour de France, designed from his individual pressure map and riding position. The technology allows a more comfortable ride and helps push more power through the pedals.
Development of the One-to-One saddle
Alex Locatelli, Fizik’s Brand Manager, told Daily Star Sport the idea was born from Adidas trainers using similar technology in their midsoles. He teamed up with digital manufacturing company Carbon and spent three weeks in California learning about 3D printing.
“We wanted to create something unique for every rider, in different positions, on different bicycles,” Locatelli said. “Because the same rider can create different pressure based on the geometry of the saddle or based on how they're sitting on the bicycle. This is the technology that allowed us to do that.”
Convincing professional cyclists
Convincing riders was difficult at first. “They thought it wasn't possible. They'd say, ‘I just need a lighter saddle, a harder saddle’, whatever they wanted,” Locatelli explained. “Finally, with the right teams, the whole mindset changed quite a lot, especially when we started sponsoring UAE. They were very open to understanding technology.”
He added: “As soon as they saw riders like Tadej using it, they were constantly asked for it themselves. Now they understand the potential of the technology!”
Impact on performance
The biggest difference is the shift from performance to comfort. “If you don't have comfort, you don't have performance because you're not able to sit on the saddle. You're moving, you're feeling pain!” Locatelli said.
Pogacar has “nine or ten” of the saddles, according to Locatelli. “I would say we've had a great relationship since even before signing the contract. I think there's a mutual partnership between us and we constantly share our ideas about saddles. He's also very knowledgeable about all the components on his bicycle!”
