The common thread in problems people have with both the Aliante and the Arione is typically the angle of the seat. They both have a straight ridgeline down the middle for most of the saddle, which tips up in the back. The ridgeline is where you need to set seat angle, even if it looks like the back is pointing up too far. That positioning solves any comfort issues for most riders. They are extremely popular saddles and, with no financial motivation, I encourage them for most riders I coach or ride with.

One point about the Aliante: The sides used to be very shallow (top to bottom) near the front, and would sometimes tend to grab your chamois and cause chafing or bunching, and would sometimes also develop premature wear. Aliante has changed that with a slightly larger and deeper nose that has patches of the leather-like material on each side. Jury is out on whether the stitching will wear faster, but they did address the one comfort issue people sometimes had.

By the way, if you have a chance, try out the Arione Carbon in addition to the standard Arione. It's a very different feel after about 30 miles on the saddle -- it introduces the suspension of the Aliante to the design of the Arione. I wasn't a believer until I tried one. Again, a ride around the block won't tell you much but if you can get a loaner from your shop and give it 30 miles, you may find the ideal saddle.