Somerset-based Fabric, the brains behind the Scoop saddle, have been busy over the past 12 months, introducing a whole host of new, innovative products to the market. And if they’re as good as their saddles, we’re in for a treat.
The latest Fabric range includes, for the first time, pumps and lights, including a front light which can also double as a rear lamp, and another rear light with an accelerometer.
But it all started with saddles, and the Scoop Flat Pro remains the perfect blend of dependable comfort, sleek looks and quality performance, putting it at the forefront of saddle design since Charge Bikes boss Nick Larsen decided to launch Fabric as a standalone brand in 2014.
Fabric keep things simple when it comes to their saddle range, with the super-light and super-techy ALM with carbon leafspring rails at the top of the range; the Cell, which offers air-sprung compressible pyramid cells, the choice if all-out comfort is what you’re after; the Line, which is based on the Scoop but with a full-length central channel, for endurance; and the Scoop as a versatile all-rounder likely to seat many happy sit bones.
Available in three profiles, and at several price points depending on the materials used in construction, there is a Scoop for everyone, with the Flat aimed at racers and those who ride in a more aero position, the Radius constructed for more relaxed, upright riding positions and the Shallow splitting the difference.
You also have four levels of construction, with the Pro sitting second-top with a nylon-fibre base and full carbon rails for a combined weight of 176g.
Now, onto the clever part – Fabric have broken the mould with the Scoop by separating the cover, base and rails into three separate pieces. It eliminates stretch and tension, meaning a softer (and therefore more comfortable and compliant) foam can be used.
Alongside the full carbon rails and nylon-fibre base found on this Pro model, the upper is covered with a waterproof microfibre. It’s not as light or as race-ready as the ALM, nor is it quite as cushioned as the Cell, but the Scoop certainly won’t look out of place on any bike.
Fabric is a super-innovative brand, bringing eye-catching, well thought out designs to the market and breaking the mould to ensure they are at the forefront. That it was the Scoop which helped the Frome-based brand make its name is all the testament you need as to the quality of the saddle.
[monetizer101 search=’Fabric Scoop Flat Pro’ price=’115′]
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