Returning unchanged for 2024, the Armada Locator 96 is a highly versatile backcountry touring ski that is designed around downhill performance. The Locator series originates from the former Tracer series and is both lighter and higher performing when it comes to downhill prowess. Although a backcountry touring ski, the 96 is not necessarily geared towards chest deep powder as it is on the narrower side. What it is geared towards are sidecountry missions and perhaps some ski mountaineering where deep snow performance is not the priority. There is enough float if you find yourself in deep snow but billygoating through no-fall zones, gipping onto firm snow, and travelling long distances is where the Locator 96 thrives. Of the Locator skis, the 96 is likely the most versatile as it can handle the widest range of conditions and applications, from soft snow to steep icy descents and mountaineering expeditions. If you are looking for a touring ski that is capable of all tasks in the backcountry, the Locator 96 should certainly be on your short list. 

The Locator 96’s construction is the secret behind its balance between uphill efficiency and downhill performance. With a Caruba wood core, supported by Carbon Reinforcement technology and Titanal Binding Plate Dampener technology, these skis accomplish something that few other touring skis can. Caruba is a low-density material that is robust yet responsive, making it a great choice for a ski with this application. Carbon Reinforcement assists to provide torsional stiffness which increases edge grip on firm snow while simultaneously supplying energy and responsiveness. The use of carbon fiber for these attributes is great as it keeps the weight down while bolstering performance. There is a Titanal binding plate dampener which serves three purposes: Vibration dampening, edge grip, and binding retention. Binding retention is the main thing here as the last thing that you need to happen is to rip a binding out while in the backcountry. With a titanal plate securing the binding to the ski, this helps to make the skis much more durable and dependable.

As the Locator 96 is a backcountry freeride touring ski, it certainly has a shape that coincides with that application. It has a twin-tip freeride shape to assist with maneuverability and floatation while camber underfoot grips onto steep icy slopes. This balance between soft snow and firm snow performance makes it incredibly versatile and a great fit for someone looking for a touring ski that is ready for anything that is thrown at it. Speaking of versatility, let talk about sidecut. With 127mm in the forebody, 96mm at the waist, and 117mm in the tails, deep snow and icy slopes are all well within the Locator’s expertise. The sidecut generates a turning radius of 21 meters which speaks to its nimble nature and ability to wiggle between tight trees or lay down beautiful arcs. All in all, what we noticed about this ski is that its construction and shape work extremely well together for ultimate versatility and ease of use.

The 2024 Armada Locator 96 is the ultimate tool for backcountry skiers who are looking to explore the landscape in search for epic lines and fresh snow. A touring ski designed around downhill performance allows you to hit lines that other more touring oriented skis would not be able to withstand. So if you are an aggressive skier who is looking for a backcountry ski with unlimited potential, the Locator 96 may be your match made in heaven.