I recently upgraded to the Fizik Vento Argo R3 Adaptive Saddle, and it's been a massive improvement for my endurance rides. I have it mounted on my Canyon Grail Gen 1, and the 3D-printed padding handles the rougher gravel routes around Spokane perfectly. The adaptive zones provide the exact right balance of support and pressure relief, particularly when I'm dialed in on the double-decker bars pushing a hard pace. If you're putting in long miles and need a saddle that keeps you comfortable without sacrificing power transfer, this is absolutely worth the investment.
I was looking for a saddle with prominent cutout for an aggresive fit. Never having ridden a Selle Italia since the old Flite model (which I could NOT use for any duration, but dang, did it look cool!), it was a bit of a gamble. Pressure mapping shows high pressure under my sit bones, but it's even, and comfortable, and I have no complaints about the saddle in use. Yes, it is expensive, but it has a premium look and feel, and kind of the mid point in pricing now.
Pros:
-Wider mid-section provides better support when adopting more aggressive and aero posture
-Ample cutout provides immediate perineal pressure relief
-Mesh zones provide varying degrees of stiffness, allowing the rider to lock-in to their position without drifting
Cons:
-Very short seat rail adjustment area (measured at 49 mm from end to end markings, vs 60 mm commonly seen in other saddles)
-Saddle nose wider than most, may lead to undesired contact
-Some riders may find mesh too soft, leading to poor power transfer; unsuitable for sprinting/racing
A very good saddle but it's firm, for road racing (according to Fizik). It's well designed, with enough padding in the right places to be comfortable. It took about three rides before my sit bones adjusted. Since then I've been very happy with it.
Also, it has one has the best cover material, compared to other saddles I've had. Slightly smooth. Easy to move around and it reduces the rubbing from bike shorts compared to others that have more fabric/texture cover.
