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The FizIk Aliante VSX Kium (Image credit: Immediate Media)
We never thought that Fizik's original Aliante saddle lacked comfort, its curvy, swoopy shape makes it ideal for endurance riders, but Fizik's latest Aliante — the VSX — has been designed to be more comfortable still.
Highs: Remarkably comfortable, supportive but not squishy
Lows: Considerably heavier than a standard Aliante
Buy if: You're looking for an Aliante with a bit more padding
Fizik has not only introduced a slot into the padding, the Italian company has also increased the depth of the padding to 20mm at its deepest. The close-density EVA foam is soft yet supportive, and does a great job of maintaining its shape and not collapsing sideways when under load, though it does mean that it's heavier than the standard model, our test saddle weighing 273g.
It even felt plush enough for riding without padded shorts, so would be a great option for a commuter bike, gravel machine or winter trainer The Aliante is part of Fizik's 'Bull' range, a shape that's designed for riders who are less flexible. Though this does include the likes of pro cyclists such as Tejay Van Garderen, Andrew Talansky and Manuel Quinziato, so it's not just for the more leisurely among us.
And if you like the thought of the VSX padding, but the Aliante isn't your seat of choice, Fizik has also introduced it in its flat and long Arione and the wider and slightly curved Antares saddles — for the flexible 'snake' and moderately flexible 'chameleon' respectively, in Fizik-speak.
The Aliante VSX is a very well-thought-out saddle. Its full-length pressure-relieving channel kept us incredibly comfortable even after multiple day-long rides, and on broken surfaces and gravel tracks the extra padding felt like having a bit of suspension at the rear. It even felt plush enough for riding without padded shorts, so would be a great option for a commuter bike, gravel machine or winter trainer.
If we had to choose between the VSX and the standard Aliante, we'd probably plump for the latter with its lower weight and ample comfort, but if you like a bit more padding this is certainly worth a punt.
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