Replying to 2019 Line Chronic vs 2019 Armada ARV 96
I've read and watched all the reviews available for both these skis and searched all the threads about each but still can't make a decision. I was set on the new ARV 96 until I read Twigs review of the new 19/20 Chronic and he talked about the redesign being focused more on all mountain performance.
I'm an intermediate skier in Iowa and ski mostly hard packed groomers. In the past I've always skied standard narrow waisted rental skis but last year I told myself I was going to learn to ride in the park so I bought a cheap pair of 2013 Line Afterbangs. It was quite an adjustment going from standard rental skis to a center mounted jib ski, but I've gotten used to them and will probably keep them because they are fun in the park and I didn't pay much for them so I am not afraid to bang them up. They're also nice to ski switch when teaching my kids.
I'm hoping for a better performing ski outside the park (especially carving ability) with this new purchase but still want it to be able to take some park laps with confidence. I also plan to take it to CO once or twice a year. The pop and overall fun energetic feeling described by Chronic users make me learn toward it but the overall versatility and proven capability of the ARV 96 has me circling back to this ski.
I'm also not sure if I should size up to the 177/178 length. I'm just over 6' 165lbs and do ski pretty hard when alone but when I'm with my kids it's pretty casual. I'm used to a 160-170 ski (my afterbangs are 166).
Click to expand post