The Smanie Explorer EX Sport is a versatile multi-discipline saddle that pairs all-day comfort with a compact shape that allows maximum freedom of movement for enduro-track shenanigans. It’s also cheap as chips, but with a quality finish that says otherwise. The thick padding and taller saddle rails do mean it sits a little higher than some other options, though.
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Smanie Explorer EX Sport saddle – Technical details
Smanie may not be the first name to spring to mind when shopping for one of the best mountain bike saddles but, from my experience with the brand’s Explorer (EX) saddle, I would say that may be about to change. Smanie markets the EX as an all-rounder, suitable for all types of riding.
Unsurprisingly, considering the price, the cover material is simple polyurethane (PU) rather than leather, mated to a polypropylene (PP) base and Chromoly rails. However, it’s entirely functional and should be hardwearing and weatherproof. While there’s no additional corner protection to protect against scuffs and scrapes, considering the saddles targeted more towards the trail ‘explorer’ category rather than enduro or all-mountain, this is perhaps to be expected.
Since it has been designed first and foremost for doing distance, Smanie has ensured comfort is a top priority with the EX. Utilising 18mm of plush PU padding in the sit bone region alongside a well-padded and slightly wider and flatter nose for extra comfort on those steeper pitches. Also present is a generous cut-out with soft edges to alleviate perineal numbness on longer rides.
The overall shape of the EX is actually pretty modern measuring 267mm long by 155mm wide, it’s quite a compact perch, ideal for allowing freedom of movement on steeper techier terrain, whilst still providing ample support for long days in the saddle.
Weighing in at 330g, the EX is far from lightweight but is in the right ballpark for this kind of saddle at this price. The Chromoly rails offer a decent amount of fore and aft adjustability and feature markings for easy alignment. Graphics are minimal and low-key and give the saddle a classy aesthetic that should work well with any bike.
It’s good to see Smanie has made its saddles as environmentally friendly as possible, utilising recycled materials throughout their range – everything from bases, rails, foam, and covers, even the packaging, is fully recycled.
Smanie Explorer EX Sport saddle – Performance
First impressions of the Smanie saddle were favourable. It’s a classy-looking perch and looks much more expensive than it actually is. Smanie says the EX is an all-rounder saddle targeted at riders of all disciplines and while a little chunky for full-blown cross-country use, it fits the bill elsewhere.
The saddle I relied upon before installing the Smanie Explorer was the ubiquitous Fabric Scoop which has been a firm favourite of mine since it was released – it’s comfy, reasonably light, and cleanly finished. Unfortunately, Fabric is no more, having ceased trading a little while ago.
Compared to the Fabric saddle, the EX is noticeably shorter and a tad wider as well as being far more generously padded. When fitting it to my bike, I noticed a marginal increase in ride height owing to the thicker padding and slightly taller saddle rails, and had to drop my post a little to compensate. Luckily I had some exposed dropper post to play with, but riders with restricted dropper insertion may find the increased ride height an issue. Obviously, the saddle also sits a little higher than before with the saddle lowered, too, meaning a touch less standover clearance when hitting the steep stuff.
Thankfully, the compact form partially makes up for the ride height niggle. I found I could easily shift position on the bike and it was never in the way. This was particularly notable hitting steep chutes and drops where the risk of hooking up shorts or getting jabbed up the bum by the nose of the saddle was substantially reduced. The EX also sports a slightly wider and flatter nose with a healthy amount of padding which really improves comfort when riding the nose on those ultra steep crux climbs where you’re struggling to keep the front wheel from wandering offline.
Speaking of padding, the Explorer has you covered. Sporting a full 18mm of plush but supportive foam in the sit-bone area, combined with the substantial pressure relief cut out, this is one lovely place to rest your behind. True to its name, the Explorer is a pleasure on longer rides and I have happily spent several chammy-free hours in the saddle with no issue. This is no ‘armchair’ though – it may be a touch wider than some, but it’s got a nice sporty aesthetic that should perform well on any bike.
The only other minor gripe is the lack of any Kevlar reinforcement at the rear corners, meaning it’s a bit more vulnerable to damage and could look a little scruffy over time. Saying that, the PU cover is proving seriously robust having taken a few good spills in its stride, so my durability worries may be unfounded. An added bonus to the bonded construction is it’s super easy to keep clean with no folds and staples to hold dirt.
Smanie Explorer EX Sport saddle – Verdict
At just £30, there’s no denying the Smanie Explorer EX Sport is banging value for money. Moreover, it’s also incredibly comfortable and durable with spot-on dimensions. Add in its versatility – spanning multiple disciplines from road to enduro and Smanie are onto a winner. The company has done a great job on the aesthetics, too – it’s by no means flash but manages to look far more high-end than its measly price tag would suggest.
Looking at the direct competition, there’s very little to worry about regarding the value-packed Smanie Explorer in this price range. Liam recently reviewed Selle Italia’s X-Bow Superflow which is the brand’s more wallet-friendly offering. It utilises a clever rotating rail design with little shock absorbers where the rails meet the shell – this ‘crossbow’ design creates a comfortable and supportive perch. However, at 354g it’s a touch weightier and is almost twice the price of the EX at £55.
If you can spare the extra cash, the Ergon SM Enduro at £75 is a fantastic saddle with similarly compact dimensions to the Smanie Explorer. It’s a touch slimmer and less heavily padded, but thanks to its superb ergonomics, orthopaedic Aircell foam, and deep pressure relief channel, it’s no less comfortable. Build quality is top notch and it’s a lovely-looking bit of kit. It is however more than twice the price of the Smanie offering.
To conclude, it’s difficult to find fault with the Smanie Explorer EX Sport saddle, especially at this price point – at £30 it’s a complete steal and for those on a budget, it’s one of the best if not the best mountain bike saddle in class. What’s really surprising though, is what a great saddle it is full stop. On paper, the EX is targeted more towards adventure rides and exploration, however, that would be selling it short. It punches well above its pay grade and does it all well, which begs the question, why pay more?
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