2025 Armada ARV 116 JJ UL Skis

The Armada ARV 116 JJ UL is a freestyle powder ski that delivers a lighter weight iteration of the legendary ARV 116 JJ. Best suited for those with big objectives and a necessity for weight savings without sacrificing high performance. This surfy and playful ski is just what you pillow hunters and powder junkies need for a long day in the backcountry.

Why we like it:

The ARV 116 JJ’s extremely playful nature and light weight construction perfectly cater to backcountry freeriders’ desires for a nimble ski that can take you to the highest and longest of distances.

Who it's for:

This ski is for two different skier types, the first being a freestyle backcountry fanatic or a less aggressive backcountry skier that wants a powder ski that isn’t going to be punished after a full day in the mountains.

Highlights:

By having a caruba wood core, the ARV 116 JJ UL is supremely light and has an extremely soft flex pattern, making it a breeze to break trail with as well as smear and get creative in the powder. Tip and tail Smear Tech provide extra surface area for maximum floatation in the deepest of snow along with making quick turns and butters exceptionally effortless. An almost symmetrical sidecut plays to the freestyle skiers who want to land switch off backcountry jumps, cliffs, or pillows.

Things to consider:

Being that this ski is very soft in flex, heavier and more aggressive skiers may want to think about either sizing up or going with the ARV 116 JJ instead of the UL (Ultralight) if stability is something that is necessary. This ski best suited for the backcountry and not necessarily for resort use, however it does have its place in the resort if you are someone who likes an extremely light, maneuverable, soft, and playful ski. The main reason why it isn’t best suited for the resort is that it doesn’t have the high-speed stability over variable snow that is often found within the resort.

Fit & sizing considerations:

Being that this ski is a powder ski through and through, you may want to consider sizing up for maximum floatation. However, if you prefer playfulness above all else, sticking to your typical length is where you will want to be.