2023 Armada ARV 106 - SkiEssentials.com Ski Test

[@hejyo586]

Sinking with theses (188) in knee high light fresh pow

[@christianokolski9701]

How would you guys compare this to the Bent 100 (that's my current lead horse right now in a new ski search)? I spend most of my time in trees/bumps/chutes (like to bounce and swivel through), bomb down the final groomer to the lift, and try to hit small jumps/land switch/ski switch at slower speeds when the opportunity presents itself (starting to be more "playful" as a skier). Lastly, I live in Houston and plan my ski trips, so while I love powder, its not really in my control, and I ski variable conditions. I know that's a lot, but I really appreciate any feedback, :).

[@SkiEssentials]

HI Christian! I think the Bent 100 offers more versatility for when the snows don't show. That said, it's also one of the best floaters at 100 mm wide due to the HRZN tech as well as the lighter weight and forgiving flex. You're also getting the playfulness and freestyle acumen of a twin tip, ARV 106 gets you all that as well, but is wider and heavier. I'd lean to the Bent 100 at this point for your application. Have fun! SE

[@samsappleton8381]

How do the massive tip & tail rocker figure into choosing a ski length? I'm 6ft and have used around ~180cm skis, but without the huge tip/tail rocker.

[@SkiEssentials]

On some skis it's definitely worth sizing up a bit. It depends on the application and the skier, of course, but I personally generally prefer mid to high 170 cm length for cambered skis and low to mid 180 cm lengths for skis with a lot of time and tail rocker. The ARV 106 is a good example of a potential exception, however, as the longer length is 188 cm, which is starting to get pretty darn long. I think 180 cm would be pretty appropriate for most skiers around 6 feet, unless you're particularly aggressive or generally prefer longer skis.

[@samsappleton8381]

@@SkiEssentials Thanks much! That was my thought on the 188's - I have a pair of Head Kore 93 188s - more a directional stick - but it seems too long for me to freely move around. Hope I can make it out to your physical location some time!

[@msilv8335]

I’m 6’2”/185 and I got the 180s. I’m not sure the extra length would get you anything unless you’re really bombing down the hill. But then, you’d probably want a different ski.

[@vicentecrovetto8863]

Hi guys, I’m currently in the west coast (stevens pass) but I am from Chile, so you guys would recommend me the armada arv 106

[@robinlibi6385]

How would u compare this ski to the faction prodigy 3.0? Planning to get one of those 2 but there are no real comparisons out there…

[@SkiEssentials]

I've always found the ARV feels smoother and more surfy, while the Prodigy feels quicker and more energetic. ARVs are pretty strong skis, and with better vibration damping IMO. Rocker profile and Smear Tech makes them very surfy, slarvy, etc, especially in softer snow conditions. Prodigy is still maneuverable and fun, and arguably more maneuverable, but it goes about it with a different feel. Snappier flex, quicker responsiveness. Hope that helps!

[@robinlibi6385]

@@SkiEssentials thank u a lot for ur extremely quick answer! So the prodigy is better for jumps, butters and just being playful in the park and off piste and the arv is better for going fast, more for the backcountry and less agile? Did I sum it up correctly? 😅

[@Epletre]

Hi. I have the Enforcer Unlimited 104 and thinking of buying this one because its on season sale now. Whats the biggest differences between these two? Thanks guys

[@SkiEssentials]

Weight. The ARV is a hefty ski in comparison to the Unlimited 104. For advanced, expert, and aggressive skiers looking for that solid and stable ski underfoot to mash around the crud and chop, the ARV 106 is a sturdy ski for sure.

[@msilv8335]

Thanks for this video. This, plus my local dealer (who I always by from when I can) immediately recommended it when I said what I was looking for. Grand Targhee is my home hill, so this will by my all-mountain ski for non-powder days. I ski the ARV 116 JJ for powder. I’ll also use it for skiing around with my kids on the soft stuff next to the groomers when I take them up. Thanks for providing these as a service to the community. 😊

[@SkiEssentials]

It's a lot of fun to do! Glad you enjoy. SE

[@nickerlicker1]

I’m 5ft 8inch, 175lbs and was thinking of getting the arv 106 at 180cm. Is this too long?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd think the shorter length would be better, but it's really all about preference--do not let me talk you out of a good time!

[@nickerlicker1]

@@SkiEssentials so I ski 30% park, 70% free ride/groomers/etc. and am definitely more of an aggressive skier - would that help on if shorter vs. longer is better?

[@newschooler720]

How would you compare this to the sick day 104 from last year? Thanks

[@skinnybricks]

Literally wondering this too.

[@antoneskilsson1318]

What are the different mount points on this ski??? Is it a freestyle and some others.

[@SkiEssentials]

It goes from center to about -6 for more directional skiing. Lots of options depending on what your preference is.