2027 Armada ARV 100

The 2027 Armada ARV 100 gets a graphic update but otherwise returns unchanged, and we think that’s a good thing. This is a versatile twin that can handle park, powder, trees, and groomers with ease. There’s not a whole lot to think about here—the ARV 100 simply works and responds to your input. There’s good energy here, as well as solid creativity. Whether you’re park-curious or just want something with a bit of extra surface area for the softer days, this ski has got you covered. Are there better carvers in this width range? Sure, but that’s not the point—ARV 100 is built and shaped for fun, flexibility, and smooth performance. We’ve found that this ski has universal appeal and works great on the feet of both experienced and emerging skiers.

The ARV 100 returns with the same construction, giving skiers a solid and predictable feel to go along with a flexible and fun-loving character. Built with a poplar wood core and an ash binding insert, these skis are light and flexible in the tips and tails and have some nice grip underfoot. It’s got their W3dgewall technology that adheres to the core during the pressing process to create a more cohesive feel. In the 179, we’re seeing a stated weight of 1900 grams, keeping it on the lighter side of heavy—it's smoother and more predictable than overly powerful or light and twiggy. It’s got an even flex and it’s right in the middle of being stiff and soft. This allows skiers to access both freestyle and all-mountain potential. For some skiers, this will end up being a full-time park ski while for others, the park will never be seen. Either way is fine, showing the well-rounded nature of the ski. In general, the construction of the ski feels comfortable and not underpowered.

This twin tip has a lot going for it in terms of versatility and making all sorts of turn shapes and styles. At 100 mm underfoot, the ARV is right in that mid-zone for width and application. Tester Eli Mozkowitz notes that it’s “very quick to turn and a good platform for a park/all-around ski.” Quickness isn’t usually a highlight of 100’s so that’s interesting to note. Most of our testers this year noted that the ski falls into the “park” category more than freeride or all-mountain, and that makes sense given the more symmetrical nature of the sidecut. With measurements of 128/100/120, this ski produces an 18-meter turn radius and feels quite round as a result. The rocker profile is quite symmetrical as well, with some, but modest splay in both tips and tails and relatively equal rise. This puts more emphasis on switch skiing, takeoffs, and landings. The balance needed by advanced freestyle skiers is buoyed by the more symmetrical style of this ARV 100.

In terms of who this ski is for and who it will benefit, this ski can go between progressing intermediates and expert skiers with ease. The predictable flex and smoother nature allow for a variety of skier styles and ability levels. The main caveat here is that they’re not the best carvers on firm snow in this range, and they’re not terribly easy to get up on edge if you’re not too experienced. This ARV 100 is a great option for skiers looking for a mix of park and freeride qualities, especially if you value flexibility, fun, and versatility.