Fizik Arione Versus Bicycle Saddle (Free Shipping)

The Versus saddles are spin-offs of Fizik's three most popular saddles (Aliante, Antares, Arione); the basic dimensions and shape are maintained, but with the addition of a "negative space" AKA channel. Fizik builds up the foam a bit to create the room needed for the channel (otherwise your sensitive bits would rest directly on the shell), but weight gain is minimal. On our scale an Arione Versus weighed just six grams more (244 vs 238 grams) than a standard Arione (both had "Kium" rails). Fizik believes maximum surface area is the key to comfort: they don't believe in saddles with holes. Their position is a hole reduces the integrity of the shell, which quickly leads to a saggy saddle. Versus does not remove all pressure from soft tissue: it reduces pressure. Does relieving pressure in one area increase pressure in others (a complaint some have against holed/channeled saddles)? Perhaps, but there's also an argument that the pressure is directed away from uncomfortable places and towards areas that are better able to bear it.

At a different level, arguing about pressure distribution is moot: if a saddle works for you, it works. A Versus version of an Arione feels different than a standard version: there is a difference in the soft tissue zone. Better? Worse? That's your call, however, if you've tried a Fizik, but your anatomy calls for something different down there, or if you're a fan of saddles with channels, Fizik now (might) have your perfect throne. —Matt Phillips

-240 grams