In the world of skiing, the Faction Prodigy 2 Skis and the Armada ARV 94 Skis are two top contenders that have been making waves in the 2024 season. Both skis are designed for intermediate to advanced skiers and are known for their versatility and playful style. The Faction Prodigy 2 Skis are praised for their all-mountain capabilities, with a full poplar core and a 98mm waist that provides a balanced ride in various conditions. On the other hand, the Armada ARV 94 Skis are known for their park prowess and all-mountain rippability, with a twin-tip design and a soft wood core that makes them easy to throw around. However, the Faction Prodigy 2 Skis are not the best for pure groomer skiing, while the Armada ARV 94 Skis may not be the best choice for deep powder days or high-speed groomer runs. In the end, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the skier.

Faction Prodigy 2 Skis · 2024 summary

The Faction Prodigy 2 Skis are a versatile all-mountain ski that caters to a wide range of skiers. Faction claims that this ski is their all-mountain shred tool, designed to have your back no matter where you are on the mountain. The Prodigy 2 is slightly wider than the Prodigy 1 and skinnier than the Prodigy 3, coming in at 98mm in the waist. This width, combined with some early rise, plenty of camber underfoot, and some early rise in the tail, helps this ski float in a bit of powder.

Carving on the Faction Prodigy 2 is super easy, with the ski's under 100mm underfoot making it easy to get from edge to edge. The ski also performs well in freestyle skiing, with a good amount of camber underfoot providing plenty of pop. The twin tip with an early rise in the tail makes skiing switch a breeze, and the skis perform well with jumps, having a low swing weight that's great for park skiers.

In terms of freeride skiing, the Faction Prodigy 2s excel, performing well in powder, uneven terrain, and in the trees. The early rise and the shovel width paired with the 98mm underfoot help the ski float on top of the powder rather than bashing through it. However, these skis may not be the best choice for skiers who stick to groomers or don't get many powder days.

Armada ARV 94 Skis · 2024 summary

The Armada ARV 94 Skis are a hybrid park/all-mountain ski that offers a playful and versatile ride. With a poplar and beech wood core, these skis strike a balance between lightweight maneuverability and solid stability. This combination allows for quick and responsive turns while maintaining a solid feel at higher speeds.

The ARV 94 has a waist width of around 94mm, making it well-suited for all-mountain skiing. This width provides excellent edge-to-edge control on groomed runs, while still offering enough floatation for lighter powder days. The ski's camber underfoot ensures reliable edge grip and precise carving on hardpack, while the slight rocker in the tip and tail enhances maneuverability and float in soft snow.

The ski's twin-tip design allows for easy switch skiing and effortless maneuvering in the park. Medium flex rating provides a good balance of stability and playfulness, making it suitable for jumps, rails, and butters. However, the ARV 94 may not be the best choice for deep powder days or high-speed groomer runs.

Overall, the Armada ARV 94 skis are a fantastic choice for skiers who enjoy a mix of freestyle and all-mountain skiing. Whether you're hitting the terrain park or exploring the mountain, these skis offer a versatile and enjoyable ride.

Similarities

Both the Faction Prodigy 2 Skis and the Armada ARV 94 Skis are designed for intermediate to advanced skiers who enjoy a mix of freestyle and all-mountain skiing. They both have a versatile design that allows for easy maneuverability and control in various terrain and conditions. Both skis have a good amount of camber underfoot, providing excellent edge hold and durability. They also both have a twin-tip design, making them great for skiing switch and hitting jumps. Both skis are praised for their pop and playfulness, making them a fun choice for skiers who like to explore the mountain and have some fun in the terrain park.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both skis are versatile and playful, they cater to slightly different types of skiers. The Faction Prodigy 2 Skis are ideal for skiers who enjoy all-mountain skiing and want a ski that can handle a variety of conditions. They perform well in powder, uneven terrain, and in the trees, making them a great choice for skiers who like to explore off-piste. However, they may not be the best choice for skiers who stick to groomers or don't get many powder days.

On the other hand, the Armada ARV 94 Skis are a hybrid park/all-mountain ski that offers a playful and versatile ride. They excel in the terrain park and offer impressive performance on groomed runs. However, they may not be the best choice for deep powder days or high-speed groomer runs. They are a great choice for skiers who enjoy a mix of freestyle and all-mountain skiing and want a ski that can handle the whole mountain.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to versatility, both skis perform well, but the Faction Prodigy 2 Skis might have a slight edge due to their performance in a wider range of conditions. For freestyle skiing, the Armada ARV 94 Skis take the cake with their park prowess and poppy jumps. In terms of durability, both skis are built to last, but the Armada ARV 94 Skis have a slight advantage with their impact-resistant edges. Finally, for all-mountain skiing, the Faction Prodigy 2 Skis come out on top with their performance in powder, uneven terrain, and in the trees.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Faction Prodigy 2 Skis and the Armada ARV 94 Skis are excellent choices for intermediate to advanced skiers who enjoy a mix of freestyle and all-mountain skiing. They both offer a versatile and playful ride, with a good amount of camber underfoot and a twin-tip design. However, the Faction Prodigy 2 Skis might be a better choice for skiers who enjoy all-mountain skiing and exploring off-piste, while the Armada ARV 94 Skis are a great choice for skiers who enjoy a mix of freestyle and all-mountain skiing and want a ski that can handle the whole mountain. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the skier. So, whether you're hitting the terrain park or exploring the mountain, both skis are sure to provide a versatile and enjoyable ride.