Specialized Power Pro Mirror saddle delivers chamois-free comfort for MTB rides

I’ve been riding on the Specialized Power Pro with Mirror for about three months and 200+ miles. This saddle is specced on S-Works builds and can also be purchased à la carte from the Specialized website. After spending enough time on it to get past the initial setup period, I’ve come to really like this saddle. In fact, it has earned a permanent spot on my Santa Cruz Tallboy.

Getting the fit right with the Power Pro saddle

Finding the right saddle position took some trial and error. My Power Pro with Mirror is the 155mm version, which I selected based on previous sit-bone measurements. I take every opportunity I can when a saddle sit-bone measurement tool is available at events to confirm that a 155mm saddle is actually the right size for me. 

Once I got the saddle positioned correctly, the difference was significant. The Mirror material conforms to my sit bones and provides a cushioned, supportive feel without feeling like I’m sitting on a traditional gel saddle. At first, the saddle felt sporty and stiff, but after a few pedals, it started to conform to my sit bones without becoming jelly-like. That’s an important distinction for me because I don’t normally ride with a chamois on local trail laps. 

The Mirror material feels like it is actually supporting me rather than simply adding softness. I can settle into the saddle without feeling like my body is sliding around on top of a squishy cushion.

I haven’t experienced any significant pressure points or immediate pain that would make me want to get off the bike on longer rides. The lack of leg numbness was noticeable compared to my previous saddle. After about the three-hour mark on the Power Pro without a chamois, I found myself adjusting my position to ease glute pain. Even with such a comfortable saddle, it’s always a good idea to keep a chamois in the wardrobe.

Climbing and descending

This is where my experience becomes a little more nuanced.

On smooth XC and flow trails, the saddle has been extremely comfortable and unobtrusive. The saddle moves naturally with my pedaling rather than causing me to slide forward, backward, or side to side. The composite body has some flex, which also contributes to the saddle’s overall comfort. That makes long, steep climbs feel more efficient.

When it comes to longer, steep climbs, the Power Pro saddle is supportive, with just a bit of uncomfortable pressure buildup along the inner channel.

The Specialized Power Pro with Mirror saddle features a unique shape with flared edges at the rear. On a few technical descents, particularly while cornering, the flare would contact my lower inner thigh and, on one occasion, left a bruise. It’s clear that body positioning is important to avoid the edges, and riders with larger thighs may find this saddle challenging.

On descents, the Power Pro generally stays out of the way. My shorts never caught on the rear of the saddle, and moving around behind it wasn’t an issue. Although the saddle is in the short-nose category, I wish the nose was slightly shorter.

I’d recommend the Power Pro with Mirror for XC, downcountry, and trail riding for riders who are struggling with saddle comfort or simply want a more supportive performance saddle without going to a bulky design. Saddles are incredibly personal, so there’s never going to be one saddle that works for everyone. But good materials, thoughtful design, and serious R&D can absolutely improve the riding experience, especially when you’re spending several hours sitting on one of the three primary contact points between you and your bike. 

Features and upgrades

There are SWAT-compatible mounts molded into the saddle base that allow for sleek and integrated storage solutions.

For riders who want to save weight, Specialized also offers the S-Works Power with Mirror, with a carbon body and rails, priced at $474.99. For most MTB riders, however, I don’t think the additional cost is necessary. The Power Pro already delivers the Mirror technology, a low-profile design, and solid titanium rails at a lower price. 

Pros and cons of Specialized Power Pro with Mirror

Pros

• Comfortable even without a chamois on shorter rides
• Low-profile, sporty shape looks great on a modern MTB
• Hollow titanium rails have remained completely quiet
• Mirror material has shown no noticeable compression, deformation, or wear
• Great breathability

Cons

• Takes some experimentation to get the saddle position dialed in
• Flared shape can cause inner thigh discomfort for some
• Cosmetic black finish scratches easily and exposes a lighter-colored layer underneath
• Premium price compared with conventional saddles

Bottom line

The Specialized Power Pro with Mirror has exceeded my expectations.

Coming from the much larger Ergon SMC Core, I expected the Power Pro to feel sportier and lighter, but I wasn’t sure how much comfort I’d give up in exchange. As it turns out, I didn’t give up much at all. The Power Pro provides substantial cushioning and sit-bone support while maintaining a low-profile, performance-oriented shape.

For me, the biggest compliment is simple: I’m leaving it on my Tallboy. It complements the bike well. It’s become a more comfortable, sporty bike to rip through my local trails. 

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