NOTE! This site uses cookies and similar technologies. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies from this website.
I understand
More Info
We put Armada's classic ARV86 to the test, not just in the snow park at Galtur, but all over the mountain.
armada arw
Level
Advanced
Terrain
Park
Best for
All-mountain freestylers, seasonnaires on a budget
Price
£340
Season
2018/19
lengths
163, 170, 177, 184
Bindings?
No
Playfulness
9
Pop
9
Energy
10
Value
10
Stability
10
Overall Score
10
+
Crazy versatility for lowly 'park' ski
The graphics are not nauseating by Armada standards, but neither are they subtle

The ARV was Armada's original ski, and now the ARV family ranges up to 116mm waist. The ARV86 is the narrowest of the adult-aimed ARV collection, and consequently the most frontside-focussed.

So the versatility of these skis comes as something of a surprise. Yes, they are park skis at heart; they're easy to ollie and are light and poppy and make spinning as effortless as can be. They're also a joy to ski switch. Naturally they're centre-mounted, but what is more confidence-inspiring when travelling backwards at speed is that there is no hint of edge-catching, thanks to Armada's ability to nail the twin-tip profile.

But they're also great on piste. Lively, fun and - crucially - responsive in turns, which is rare in park skis and gives you more options when you're out on the mountain.

Even more impressive is the ARV86's performance off-piste. The flex pattern of park skis doesn't always translate to capability in powder, but these offer incredible bouncy fun in the soft snow. More importantly, as our Prime Minister might say, they are exceptionally strong and stable, given their 'intended' purpose.

Possibly the most impressive park skis we've ridden. Not just because they can handle the whole mountain, but because they can charge all over it. You won't find a more versatile 'all-mountain' ski anywhere near this price.

Share on

All our reviews are independent and unbiased. We may earn a commission when you buy from links to Amazon and other affiliates on this page.