PDW Dios Thronous
The Dios Thronous saddle is unlike any I’ve seen before, primarily made with injection molded EVA foam. This is the same stuff Crocs are made of, meaning the saddle is waterproof, scuff resistant and relatively lightweight. The durometer of the foam is easily tuned during production, in this case to make a comfortable saddle as tested by the PDW crew and friends. Portland Design Works is appropriately located in the Pacific Northwest where rain can be an every day reality, and saddles with a bag over them is a common sight at the bike rack. No one likes a soggy saddle, and that is the inspiration at work. The Dios Thronous cannot absorb water—leave it out in the rain, wipe it off, go ride. The saddle feels firm but not rubbery, and the texture is neither smooth nor tacky, though it is sticker than I prefer. People who like stitched leather or synthetic non-slip saddles will love it, those who like to freely slide around and reposition may find it takes some getting used to. The Dios Thronous has steel rails, weighs 295 g and is available in red, black, white or neon green for $40. Check out www.ridepdw.com