Mount Location
I began skiing the TSTw at the factory recommended line, but because I couldn’t get out of the backseat, I tried moving the mount point 2cm forward, then later, 1cm behind the line.
After speaking with an Armada rep, he advised me against moving the mount point forward, as the sidecut would be too far behind the weight of the skier, causing the ski to feel twitchy. I must agree 100% with him there—when mounted forward, the ski became less predictable, and it only took me about three runs to determine that a forward mount was not the path to success.
Moving the mount point backward also failed to solve the problems I was having. After 11 days on these skis, I have yet to find the sweet spot. If you’ve found it, please let me know.
Simply put, the TSTw’s flat tail and stiffer flex meant that the ski felt and skied significantly longer than the VJJ, with it’s fully rockered tip and tail. I did not expect this 174cm TSTw to feel so much longer than the 175cm VJJ, and I was definitely caught off guard.
The TSTw uses Armada’s EST Freeride Rocker shape, which has a fairly aggressive tip rocker, and because this rocker shortens up the overall effective edge length of the ski, I was fairly confident at first that the 174cm TSTw was the correct choice for me. Furthermore, I’ve been completely happy with my 175cm VJJ, so I assumed the 174 TSTw would be a good fit. But I probably should have opted for the 165cm model. (I commonly opt for skis that are about 168cm long.)
To test this theory, I was lucky enough to borrow a pair of 2011-2012 165cm TSTs (not TSTw, though there is no difference between the men’s and women’s models, save the graphics and sizes offered).
165cm TST vs. 174cm TST(w)
I fared significantly better on the 165 in bumps, steeps and chop than I had on the 174. As I slowly regained my confidence working through Fred’s trees, I had no trouble staying forward on the 165, and I could devote more energy to skiing rather than surviving.
I still didn’t love the 165 in firm chop or hard moguls. Being a rather lightweight ski, I found that the TSTs didn’t provide great dampness when conditions were bumped and chopped up, and I was not super comfortable tackling rough snow at high speeds.
The VJJ isn’t stunning in bumps either, but I found it to be far more forgiving than the TSTw, and, again, I attribute this to the stiffer tails on the latter ski. When bounced into the backseat on the VJJ, a simple transfer of weight was all that was needed to correct my stance; on the TSTw, a great deal more effort was required for me to get back in control and centered.
The 165cm length was also great on groomers, though I definitely noticed a loss in stability with this shorter length when railing at high speeds. I found the tips to flutter a bit more on the 165cm, which I hadn’t noticed on the 174cm TSTw.
I didn’t get a chance to try the 165cm TST in powder, though it seems safe to assume that you will probably see a bit better flotation on the longer model.
So, Which One: TSTw or VJJ?
When making the choice between the TSTw or the VJJ there are several factors to consider: ladies (especially those with racing backgrounds) who prefer a stiffer board will definitely appreciate the TSTw, as it really shines on groomers. The TSTw also performs quite well in powder, and those who are looking for a one-ski quiver may find the TSTw to be a top pick, especially if your home mountain doesn’t frequently see big storms. The TSTw also demonstrates more versatility in different conditions than the VJJ.
While I would recommend sizing up on the VJJ, I definitely would opt to either size down or select your usual length of choice on the TSTw. If you are a strong skier or you tend to avoid moguls or rough snow, you may be just fine sizing up on the TSTw. I, however, wished I had not, since that long, stiff tail meant I had to work much harder in variable snow. Because the effective edge is significantly shorter on the VJJ, I had no issues sizing up on that ski, and highly encourage ladies to do so because it skis so much shorter than its 175cm length.
The VJJ is going to be a better choice for gals searching for a more powder-specific tool that can also handle groomed runs or chop on the way back to untracked powder. The VJJ is certainly a softer and more forgiving ski, and it does provide better flotation than the TSTw. If you plan to ski fresh snow on the regular and do prefer a lively ski with a softer flex, the VJJ is an excellent choice.
Bottom Line
At the end of the day, I’m going to stick with the VJJ—it’s a better fit for me. But I think ladies who appreciate a stiffer ski with more versatile applications will definitely find plenty to love about the TSTw.
(Click to see rocker profile pics of the Armada TST.)
Nice review Lexi!
Would you recommend 165 or 156 for someone coming from a 78mm 152cm ski? Looking for some all mountain/powder skis for my wife, she is a 5’3″ / 130 intermediate skier, she was a grommer only skier on her first two seasons and ready to enjoy other terrains, first I was thinking of a more pow oriented tip/tail rocker and 110mm or so, but that might be a big jump from 78mm and maybe a 100mm will give her more confidence in the transition! I’ve been looking at s7w 168cm, rockette 115 164cm and the tstw 165cm, right now really between the tstw or rockette.
I saw some other comments saying the tstw skis short, but that wasn’t you impressions, but I noticed you had a size that was something you would pick for a rocker/rocker powder skis, so maybe the wrong size really made you think that and you were more confortable in the 165cm tst. So looks like for my wife the 156cm would be just too small and wouldn’t really help much in getting used to bigger skis!
Would you say the tstw skis shorter than a more traditional all mountain ski? I saw it in a local shop and it has a considerable tip rocker, and even though it doesn’t have a tail rocker it does have some rise when compared to say blizzard samba, which would make it a little shorther on running edge specially when you bend the skis.
Again nice review and good back to back with the vjj!
Hey Marcel,
Thanks so much for reading!
In regards to your question, the 174cm TSTw did ski a bit shorter than that actual length because of the rocker (I would say it feels closer to a 169-170cm ski). But the stiffness in the tails was still too much for my smaller frame, though I am a relatively aggressive skier.
I’m thinking that the 165cm may be a bit on the long side for your wife, but if she is thinking that she is ready for something longer than her 152cm current ski it could work. My guess is that the 156cm TSTw will feel comparatively similar in length to her current setup. Though it will require a little getting used to the fatter girth, I suspect she will love some fatter sticks!
If she is at all interested in skiing moguls, I would probably steer clear of this TSTw however, they really didn’t lend me much (or any) confidence in bumps. I think the Rockette at 115mm underfoot may be a bit too big of a jump in width, and you aren’t going to see quite the versatility she may enjoy on a ski nearer to 100mm in width. The Rockette 92mm however, might be an awesome bet!
I have only spent 1 day on the Women’s Rossi S7w, but I found it to be a responsive, forgiving ski that intermediates can love. I’ve seen tons of gals invest in the Rossi S7 who have found this is a nice tool to aid them in progressing from an intermediate level. I did find that it was significantly more forgiving than the TSTw.
There’s my 2 cents! Hope it helps!
Hello!
I have been skiing my whole life (almost 19 now) and will be going to college in Colorado this year. I desperately need new skis, but I am having such a hard time deciding. I love skiing all kinds of terrain (I raced a little, I’ve been heli-skiing, I love moguls), but I tend to get stuck in the backseat (I think this also may be because of my bad boots- also being replaced this season) so I think I need skis with a center mount. I do love racing-style boots that force you to flex forward more.) I want responsive skis but I also don’t want to feel overpowered or like I have to be on top of it all the time, so I do need forgiveness.
I am hoping you can help me find a pair of skis. I have made a list, but honestly I’ve been researching so much that I cannot decide:
K2 Superglide (I worry these will only be good for groomers)
Blizzard Black Pearl
Blizzard Samba
Nordica La Nina
Volkl Kenja (2012)
Armada TSTw
Salomon Rockette 90
Atomic Affinity Storm
Volkl Kiku
Rossi S7
Let me know if you have tested these and if so, what do you recommend? Or anything not on this list… Thank you!!
Carolyn!
Don’t think I’m ignoring you! I just attempted to type 2 huge responses on my iPhone and they were deleted both times! I’ll get back to you soon on a real computer!!
Best,
Lexi
Dearest Carolyn,
Thanks for being patient with me, sorry for the long wait! You will absolutely love your time in Colorado. I expect you should be able to log some seriously great ski days, with that comes the need for the perfect ski : ) Do definitely make sure investing in new boots is your first priority, a properly fitted pair is honestly more important than new skis in my experience. Sloppy boots are the worst! Now I haven’t skied all these sticks, but I can offer you my impressions or advice as best I can.
K2 Superglide – Besides a bad name, I think your concern with this ski was legitimate. At 80mm underfoot, it’s going to be an awesome groomer/frontside ski. But it’s going to leave you unsatisfied for those CO powder days. I think this is not going to be your best bet. It’s targeted more for beginner/intermediates and it’s going to be a ski you would quickly grow out of.
Blizzard: I’ve never actually had to chance to try any Blizzard skis, so I don’t feel quite comfortable offering an opinion on these two.
Nordica La Nina: You should check out Julia’s review (http://blistergearreview.com/gear-reviews/2012-2013-nordica-la-nina) on this ski, she really enjoyed this ride. This is a versatile option at 113mm underfoot and will be a great everyday ski that will still deliver in the powder. This is going to be on the stiffer side, so if you want something more forgiving, you might want to seek a softer flex.
Volkl Kenja:
Kenja is a bit narrow underfoot at 87mm, I think this one isn’t going to be your best bet either for when those CO storms roll in. This will make you very happy on the frontside groomers, it will be a good crud buster, but I think unless you have a dedicated POW-only ski this one will leave you wanting better flotation.
TSTw: I didn’t find this ski to be particularly forgiving. The stiff tails weren’t great in bumps and the powder performance was OK – but not as awesome as the VJJ. If you’ve read my VJJ review you’ll know I’m a self-professed VJJ fan, I absolutely LOVE those skis. I highly suggest checking those out before the TST due to their awesome performance in powder while maintaining good all-mtn versatility. I honestly just bought another pair because my last VJJs were shredded after 2 years of heavy use. This is my favorite ski of all time! Check out my review here: http://blistergearreview.com/gear-reviews/armada-vjj
Salomon Rockette 90: Another solid option! A friend of mine has these and raves about them, she uses them as an everyday ski in and around Alta. I think 90mm underfoot is finally coming close to a good balance between all-mountain and powder friendly.
Affinity Storm: Ehhhh…another one to skip. This ski is really targeted more towards intermediate skiers and you would quickly grow bored. Also a bit on the narrow side for ultimate storm floatation.
Volkl KiKu: I’ve never skied this pair, but they’ve always been on my short list. This is a nice powder-centric ski that can also handle the everyday situations.
S7: People rave about this one since it really helps intermediate skiers take their ability to the next level. It’s a really versatile, forgiving ski with a smooth buttery feel. I ultimately found it couldn’t hold up in chop, but in all other conditions it provided a fun ride.
You should also seriously consider the LINE Pandora ski. I’ve got so many friends who are raving about this pair. It’s a nice mix of powder with all-mtn capabilities. I think you should add that to your list of considerations.
I hope this helps!!
Thank you SOOO much for replying and answering all of my ridiculous comments- I found a pair of the LINE pandora’s on sale and I think i might get em now.
Hi Lexi,
great review, very interested to read your review of the 174 TSTw as I’ve been considering the 174 TST (exactly the same ski of course with different graphics as you mentioned).
I’m a lighter-weight male, 155 lbs (70.5 kgs), 14cms taller than you, but Will, in his review of the TST, suggested that the 174 would be a good size for a couple other guys my size. And ability. You, as a former racer, are naturally going to be on a whole different level than someone who used to be an advanced skier in the 80’s, stopped skiing for 24 years, now probably intermediate-advanced, learning to adapt to carving skis!
A Canadian ski instructor (who I haven’t met yet) emailed me advising that I should be sticking to 84-88mm wide skis, 90 max, for an all-mountain 1-ski quiver, but do you think those skis are really for intermediate skiers, or someone who wants to spend most of their time on the groomers?
I like to venture into the bumps occasionally, so was concerned with your description of the 174 TSTw in the bumps, but I’m not a great bumps skier, & would probably just cruise thru them, try to link a few turns, & definitely go easy on the speed in steep bumps! Do you think the TST would be ok for that style of skiing?
Ultimately, I’m trying to work out what ski would suit best for 50/50 piste/off-piste, as although I would love to spend 80% of my skiing time off-piste, realistically I think it’ll be around 50/50 at best. Next year might be Japan, which can get a lot of powder, although last year we got 2 days out of 8……… Will keep the skis for at least 3 seasons, it’s a big decision, first ski purchase in 25 years!
Cheers Lexi
Hi Lexi,
Your points regarding the mounting point on this ski are really interesting. I was curious if you’ve had any more thoughts on mounting positions since writing the review.
I just bought a pair of 174s and I’ve been really excited to put a pair of dynafits on these and use them as my bc ski, BUT when I had someone (..the bf…) mount them they mounted one ski backwards! Yikes! Now I’m in a pickle because I’ll have to remount the skis and can no longer go directly off the factory line. I called a shop and they recommended going back 1-2 cm. I’m 5’3 and 125 lbs so they said I would have some wiggle room with moving back on these. In your experience, was moving the mount 1 cm back worse than the original mount position? Do you think it will still be a manageable ski if I do so? I know I also ski in the backseat and I’m afraid mounting them backwards is just going to exacerbate the problem.
Thanks a million,
Sara
Hi,
Thank you for this awesome review. I am 5ft 8inches and an intermediate skier. Been skiing all may life off and on. I weigh about 155 and am debating between the 165 or 174. What is your opinion on this? I have never really skied on the correct skis before. Currently using my brothers old skis that are below my chin(way to short)!
Thank you so much
~Kelly
Hi Kelly!
Thanks for reading.
It’s really hard to give a good answer on this for you. You mention that you hadn’t spent much time skiing the correct length, so I don’t feel comfortable telling you which length would be best since it could go either way! As an intermediate skier I think the 165cm sounds best, but again, I had so much trouble with the length on these, I feel wary of putting much confidence in my guess.
My advice to you would be find a local demo day at a mountain close to you.
Feb is PRIME demo time, I’d do a google search and see which resorts are hosting a demo day around President’s Day weekend, it’s a great time to find local demos.
That way you can try the same model ski in a variety of sizes to see what size you can comfortably ski. Demo – demo – demo, this will give you the answer you need!
Hey Lexi,
I’m out on the east coast (VT) and looking for a good intermediate/advanced ski. Something that can handle our crap icy days and the powder we get from time to time (like now), and go from all over the mountain to skinning and time in the back country of the east. I’ve read both your reviews on the Armada TSTw and the ARVw, and while I plan on demo-ing, I just wondered which of those two you’d recommend. From one Lexi to another- thanks so much for your time and knowledge!
Hi Lexi. I am a 5´2″ /106 female advanced to aggresive skier (I like to ski fast). I am coming from a Fischer Koa 74 150cm (skill level 9) and then I tried a Head Total Joy 2016 158cm (very nice but made me feel a little bit unconfident on extreme terrains the first 2 days). There are not many powder days where I live (southamerica), often icy conditions or crud/crust. I want to try a TSTw 156cm (or 165cm?) or a Blizzard Black Pearl 152cm. Which one do you recommend? Thank you so much for your time!!! Best regards.
So agree about Line Pandora 95’s! What a fun ski!! I love to ski the powder, bumps and trees. Not a groomer. Recently spent long day demo’ing skiis and 2 favorites were Icelandic Maiden and Line Pandora. Curious if you’ve tried the Maidens? Thanks, Cathy
Hey, since it looks like the TSTW has been discontinued, does anybody know if Armada has “replaced” it with another ski in their line, like by tweaking existing skis to cover the range of function previously covered by TSTW, or something similar? My girlfriend has 2015 156 TSTWs and she loves them, but is looking for a longer version.