The Stranger. A unique ski, that’s for sure, yet undeniably fun and can be enjoyed by a whole slew of different skiers. Is it a nod to carving with a freestyle flair? Is it a quick and agile all-mountain ski? A glimpse into the future of ski design, perhaps? I’d say it’s a resounding “yes” to all of those questions. The concept here is Armada has combined elements from freeride skis, carving skis, and twin tips into a single model. Its shorter 15 m turn radius allows for high edge angles and snappy carves. Although not rounded like a typical twin tip, the rise in the tail allows for playful switch skiing and landings. Then you add in the 100 mm waist width and ample 140 mm tip and it provides reasonably good float for softer snow conditions. You can slash, you can smear, you can ollie, you can butter, and you can carve. It’s an ideal ski for those days when the snow conditions aren’t ideal. It can make a lot out of a little, and will always leave you smiling. We’re not chasing superlatives here, unless that superlative is “most fun.” Not the strongest, nor the stiffest, nor the floatiest, but a ski that thinks outside of the box and lets you leave your own personal signature on the mountain.