Since debuting its 3D printed saddle in 2019, Fizik has offered the technology only on its Antares models. Now, in a preview at Sea Otter, the company has moved that technology to its short-nose model, the Argo, and unveiled the new Argo Adaptive.

3D printed cushions are a relatively new technology in the saddle world, but not so new that there is no guide to the best 3D printed saddles. However, the field has been limited to Specialized or Fizik, resulting in a modest arms race to bring new options to market. This time it's Fizik's turn, with the Argo, an "adaptive" version of the short-nose road saddle, to compete with Big S's S-Works Power with Mirror

. Short-nose saddles are becoming increasingly popular on road bikes, especially among riders who prefer to maintain an aggressive position and ride "on the rivet" for extended periods of time. Theoretically, the shorter and wider nose reduces pressure on soft tissues when biting the stem. However, it is not a shape for everyone (as is true of all models). We tested both the Vento Argo R5 (with cutouts) and the gravel-specific Terra Argo X3, with mixed results.

The purpose of both saddle geometry and adaptive cushioning is to hold the rider in place and avoid unnecessary position changes. Grid cushions can be designed to provide more or less cushioning in certain areas to adapt to different riding positions (e.g., top and drop). Some saddles try to accomplish this by varying the density of the foam, but doing so risks putting pressure on the transition zone. Also, because of the lattice, the saddle weighs less.

Fizik claims that the Argo Adaptive's zone cushioning reduces the maximum pressure experienced by the rider and takes into account the different widths of the sit bones.

The Argo Adaptive will be available in two widths (140mm and 150mm), with an R1 carbon rail option and a lower-cost R3 with K:ium alloy rails. Priced at £299/$299/€299 and £259/$259/€250 respectively, they weigh 190g for the 140mm width and 224g for the 150mm width.

Both models are black, with a milky green option that divides opinion as seen on Antares. not available, and will be available for consumers at the end of this month.