fi’zi:k saddles: Why choose an open-channel saddle?

In addition to its usual road models Aliante, Antares, and Arione (tested here), Fizik offers wide versions, Versus Evo models (with a flexible shell and a central channel), and Open versions with a cutout in the middle. What’s the point? Let’s compare the classic model with the Open model to see what it can offer.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: 3bikes.fr

Fizik offers three road cycling saddle models, excluding triathlon/time trial and women-specific models.

The Aliante, with a rather curved profile (for those with less lumbar flexibility) and a 143 mm wide rear section.
The Antares, with a less pronounced profile (for those with “normal” flexibility) and a 140 mm wide rear section.
The Arione, with a flat profile (for very flexible riders or those who adopt an aggressive position on the bike), a 130 mm wide rear section, and a length of 300 mm.

The classic Arione is a saddle with a narrow, flat, and long rear section, primarily intended for slender and flexible cyclists.

These three models are then available in two widths (Regular or Large), or as Versus Evo versions with a more flexible shell and a central channel to relieve pressure, or as Open versions, as in the comparison we are interested in today. Finally, the designations 00, R1, R3, Classic, or Gamma indicate the range level with the type of chassis used and the materials of the shell or cover, which influence the level of rigidity and durability.

What you need to remember is that, starting from three profile shapes at Fizik, different possibilities exist to customize your saddle according to your morphology, habits, or needs.

=> SEE ALSO: How to choose your saddle?

The two Arione saddles here have the same dimensions but are distinguished by the central channel and the cutout in the middle of the Open model’s saddle.

As R3 level saddles, both benefit from a carbon-reinforced nylon shell with aluminum rails.

Why a hole in the middle of the saddle?

These saddles are available in Versus Evo or Open versions, with a central channel or a cutout in the middle to relieve pressure and limit the risk of numbness of the nerves in the crotch area. Although designed from an Arione shape (and therefore flat), the Arione Versus Evo has a rather flexible shell in addition to the long channel that runs from the nose to the end of the rear section. It is a very comfortable version but, in our opinion, it somewhat limits sporty use, giving the impression of being somewhat seated in a rather soft seat. With the Open, the Arione retains characteristics very similar to the basic version, particularly in terms of support and shell rigidity. The Arione R3 Open does not give the impression of pumping during pedaling and feels firm under the sit bones. The only difference is this hole just below the sensitive areas, which is supposed to relieve pressure and prevent problems related to the genital area.

Both saddles are equally firm under the sit bones.

A classic or “open” saddle?

Having used the classic (meaning “solid”) Arione saddle daily for many years, we can quickly notice the differences with the Open version. The edges of the hollowed-out central part are pronounced and very firm. The pressure points are distributed quite differently than on a classic saddle, but that is the principle of the system.

The edges are quite pronounced.

With poor quality or ill-fitting cycling shorts, irritation can occur if the chamois pad creases at these edges. This can also be problematic for those who pedal slightly crooked, with a slightly misaligned pelvis.

The pressure points are distributed quite differently than on a classic saddle, but that is the principle of the system.

While the first few kilometers are quite surprising with a very distinct pressure on the sides, i.e., around the hole, no additional pain appears over time, except with poor quality cycling shorts as explained above. The cutout saddle does not initially appear to be much more comfortable than the classic model, as the Arione R3 remains firm. However, over the course of rides, one can realize that there are no longer minor discomforts such as tingling in the penis or testicles after long sessions with hands in the drops, nor frequent urges to urinate during or after the ride.

The classic model can sometimes cause some tingling in the genital area.

There is no sensation of pumping or deformation during pedaling, whether in power or cadence. Viewed from the side, the open part is slightly lower than the rest of the saddle. One can almost find additional support for pedaling. But one loses the versatile aspect of the traditional Arione, which allows one to position oneself somewhat as desired on the saddle during effort. For example, the nose of the Open, although as wide as the classic, is more difficult to access by simply tilting the pelvis forward, and with the opening, it does not provide the expected support anyway.

The Arione R3 Open offers more support than the model without an opening.

A choice to be defined

The Arione R3 Open provides a firm and durable seating position. The small central channel and the opening prevent certain discomforts that can be felt when riding a lot on firm saddles. It provides a more secure (or more destabilizing depending on conditions) seating position than the Arione without an opening. Both models remain sporty saddles, intended for racers or committed sportive riders. But they provide a slightly different seating position that must be taken into account if one switches from one model to another. Finally, the opening in the center can eliminate or delay minor discomforts related to sensitive areas that some riders sometimes experience. Like these two test models, it is in any case possible to try these saddles at certain bike shops.

PUBLIC PRICES:
Arione R3 Open, 230 g, 139 €
Arione R3, 200 g, 149 €

> CONTACT: fizik.com

=> SEE ALSO: All our Gear articles