In the world of women's skis, the Faction Prodigy 2X and the Armada ARW 96 are two standout options for the 2023 season. Both skis are designed with the adventurous and versatile skier in mind, offering a blend of performance features that cater to a variety of terrains and styles. The Faction Prodigy 2X is praised for its poppy and soft nature, making it a joy to ride on both groomed runs and in the park. The Armada ARW 96, on the other hand, is known for its smooth and predictable turn initiation, making it a reliable choice in less than ideal snow conditions. While both skis have their strengths, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and skiing style.

Faction Prodigy 2X Skis · Women's · 2023 summary

The Faction Prodigy 2X Skis are a versatile and high-performing option for women skiers looking to take their skills to the next level. Faction has designed these skis with a poplar core, which they claim makes the skis soft and poppy. This results in a ski that is playful yet stable, offering a lively flex profile that is responsive even at lower speeds.

The Prodigy 2X features a rocker/camber/rocker profile, which means it has an early rise in the tip and tail, and camber underfoot. This design helps with turn initiation and makes the skis snappier when landing or making turns. The rocker in the tips and tails also aids in float and park skiing.

These skis are praised for their stability in turns and their ability to hold up well at high speeds. They are also versatile park skis, performing well on jumps and all over the mountain. Despite being a park ski, they have also been loved by many who don't ski park for their all-mountain capabilities.

The Faction Prodigy 2X Skis are recommended for intermediate to advanced skiers looking for a stable all-mountain park ski. They are not recommended for beginners.

Armada ARW 96 Skis · Women's · 2023 summary

The Armada ARW 96 Skis are a flagship all-mountain/park hybrid ski that has been a staple in Armada's lineup for years. They sport a twin tip design that makes them playful and easy to turn, making them ideal for skiing backwards and hitting jumps, both in the park and outside of it.

The ARW 96 is a poppy and lively ski that can carve effortlessly on the mountain, but also get super nimble when needed. It offers smooth and predictable turn initiation, making it a reliable choice in less than ideal snow conditions.

These skis are constructed with higher quality materials compared to similar skis at the same price point, including S7 bases, 2.2 impact edges, and AR75 sidewalls. This results in a highly durable and long-lasting ski that will last for more seasons comparatively.

The Armada ARW 96 Skis are recommended for skiers who want a fun, playful ski that can handle a variety of conditions and terrains.

Similarities

Both the Faction Prodigy 2X and the Armada ARW 96 are designed to be versatile, all-mountain skis that can handle a variety of conditions and terrains. They both feature a twin tip design, making them playful and easy to turn, and ideal for skiing backwards and hitting jumps.

Both skis are praised for their poppy and lively nature, offering a fun and responsive ride on the mountain. They are also both designed to be durable and long-lasting, using high-quality materials in their construction.

Both skis are recommended for intermediate to advanced skiers, and are not recommended for beginners. They are both designed to be versatile, capable of handling both groomed runs and park skiing.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both skis are designed to be versatile and fun, there are some key differences between the Faction Prodigy 2X and the Armada ARW 96.

The Faction Prodigy 2X is designed with a poplar core, which Faction claims makes the skis soft and poppy. This results in a ski that is playful yet stable, offering a lively flex profile that is responsive even at lower speeds. The Prodigy 2X is recommended for skiers who are looking for a stable all-mountain park ski, and who want to progress in the park and all-mountain skiing.

On the other hand, the Armada ARW 96 is known for its smooth and predictable turn initiation, making it a reliable choice in less than ideal snow conditions. It is constructed with higher quality materials, including S7 bases, 2.2 impact edges, and AR75 sidewalls, making it a durable and long-lasting option. The ARW 96 is recommended for skiers who want a fun, playful ski that can handle a variety of conditions and terrains.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When comparing the Faction Prodigy 2X and the Armada ARW 96, the winner in each dimension depends on the individual skier's preferences and needs.

1. Versatility: Both skis are highly versatile, capable of handling a variety of conditions and terrains. However, the Faction Prodigy 2X may have a slight edge due to its poplar core and lively flex profile, which make it responsive at both high and low speeds.

2. Durability: The Armada ARW 96 takes the win in this category, thanks to its high-quality construction materials, including S7 bases, 2.2 impact edges, and AR75 sidewalls.

3. Playfulness: Both skis are praised for their poppy and lively nature, but the Faction Prodigy 2X may have a slight edge due to its soft and poppy nature, which makes it a joy to ride on both groomed runs and in the park.

4. Performance in Less Than Ideal Conditions: The Armada ARW 96 is the winner in this category, with its smooth and predictable turn initiation making it a reliable choice in less than ideal snow conditions.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Faction Prodigy 2X and the Armada ARW 96 are excellent choices for intermediate to advanced skiers looking for a versatile, all-mountain ski. The Faction Prodigy 2X stands out for its poppy and soft nature, making it a joy to ride on both groomed runs and in the park. The Armada ARW 96, on the other hand, is known for its smooth and predictable turn initiation, making it a reliable choice in less than ideal snow conditions.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and skiing style. If you're looking for a playful and responsive ski that excels in the park, the Faction Prodigy 2X may be the ski for you. If you're looking for a durable and reliable ski that can handle a variety of conditions and terrains, the Armada ARW 96 may be a better fit. Either way, you're sure to have a blast on the mountain with either of these skis. Happy skiing!