In the world of skiing, the Line Chronic Skis and Armada ARV 86 Skis are two top contenders for 2023. Both are designed with the adventurous skier in mind, offering a blend of park and all-mountain capabilities. The Line Chronic Skis are known for their versatility, allowing you to rip big mountain lines one moment and jib rails in the park the next. However, they may not be as durable as some would like. On the other hand, the Armada ARV 86 Skis shine in the park with their full tip/tail rocker and true twin tip design. They offer plenty of pop underfoot and smooth edge-to-edge transitions. However, they may not be the best choice for powder skiers. In the end, the choice between these two skis comes down to personal preference and the type of skiing you plan to do.

Line Chronic Skis · 2023 summary

The Line Chronic Skis have been a popular choice for years, and for good reason. Originally designed as a park ski, they have evolved into an all-mountain park ski, offering unmatched versatility. Whether you're ripping big mountain lines at the top of the mountain or jibbing rails down in the park, these skis can handle it all. They're perfect for anyone looking for a ski they can take anywhere on the mountain.

The Line Chronic Skis are designed with a symmetrical flex and 5cut side radius, similar to the Honey Badger skis. However, they're a bit stiffer, with maple stringers from tip to tail to add some stability and power when you're out on the rest of the mountain. They also feature "tuff top" top sheets, which are thicker and textured for better durability and fewer scratches over time.

Despite their versatility, the Line Chronic Skis do have a downside: their durability. However, for the price, they're pretty good. They're ideal for all-mountain park skiers, side hits, and playfulness, but they may not be the best choice for those seeking a super durable ski.

Armada ARV 86 Skis · 2023 summary

The Armada ARV 86 Skis are a park skier's dream. They feature a full tip/tail rocker and true twin tip design, making them shine in the park. With 86mm underfoot, they offer plenty of pop underfoot, smooth edge-to-edge transitions, and make it easier to get your spins around. They also have a balanced flex rating in the tips and tails, making them a more playful ride.

These skis are cambered underfoot, which allows them to lock onto rails and grip the snow while carving. This makes them a great choice for skiers who spend a lot of time in the park but also want to explore the rest of the mountain. However, they may not be the best choice for powder skiers, as they have limited float in deep powder.

Despite their park focus, the Armada ARV 86 Skis are still versatile enough to handle all-mountain skiing. They're a bit more of a park ski that offers all-mountain versatility, making them a great choice for skiers who want to have fun all day on one ski.

Similarities

Both the Line Chronic Skis and the Armada ARV 86 Skis are designed with a focus on park skiing, but they also offer all-mountain versatility. They both feature a symmetrical build and shape, which makes for a more playful ride. Both skis are also designed to be agile and nimble, making them great for tricks, jumps, and maneuvers in the park. They both have a balanced flex rating, which makes them stable yet playful. Both skis are also designed to handle a variety of snow conditions, from groomed runs to fresh snow.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both skis are designed for park and all-mountain skiing, they each have their unique strengths. The Line Chronic Skis are more versatile, able to handle big mountain lines and park rails with ease. They're a bit stiffer, offering more stability and power when you're out on the rest of the mountain. These skis are perfect for the adventurous skier who wants to explore every part of the mountain.

On the other hand, the Armada ARV 86 Skis shine in the park. They offer plenty of pop underfoot and smooth edge-to-edge transitions, making them great for getting your spins around. They're also cambered underfoot, allowing them to lock onto rails and grip the snow while carving. These skis are ideal for the park enthusiast who also wants to explore the rest of the mountain.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to versatility, the Line Chronic Skis take the win. They can handle big mountain lines and park rails with ease, making them a great choice for the adventurous skier.

In terms of park performance, the Armada ARV 86 Skis come out on top. They offer plenty of pop underfoot and smooth edge-to-edge transitions, making them perfect for park enthusiasts.

For durability, the Line Chronic Skis have the edge with their "tuff top" top sheets, which are thicker and textured for better durability and fewer scratches over time.

Finally, for all-mountain performance, it's a close call. Both skis offer all-mountain versatility, but the Line Chronic Skis are a bit stiffer, offering more stability and power when you're out on the rest of the mountain.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Line Chronic Skis and the Armada ARV 86 Skis are excellent choices for 2023. They both offer a blend of park and all-mountain capabilities, making them versatile and fun to ride. The Line Chronic Skis are a bit more versatile and durable, making them a great choice for the adventurous skier. On the other hand, the Armada ARV 86 Skis shine in the park and offer a more playful ride, making them perfect for park enthusiasts. In the end, the choice between these two skis comes down to personal preference and the type of skiing you plan to do. So, whether you're ripping big mountain lines or jibbing rails in the park, you can't go wrong with either of these skis. Happy skiing!