For skiers seeking a blend of uphill efficiency and downhill performance, the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 emerges as a compelling option. This review delves into the nuances of the Tracer 108, a ski that has garnered attention for its playful nature, lightweight construction, and surprising stability across varied snow conditions. Having spent considerable time touring and resort skiing on the Tracer 108, mounted with the Fritschi Tecton 12 bindings, my experience offers a comprehensive perspective on its capabilities. This ski aims to be a true 50/50 option, and in many ways, it delivers on that promise.
Powder Performance of the 2019 Armada Tracer 108
The question on every powder enthusiast’s mind: how does the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 handle the deep stuff? While skis can’t have preferences, the Tracer 108 certainly performs admirably in fresh snow. In approximately 12 inches of light powder, the Tracer 108 proved to be a playful and enjoyable ride.
For a ski with a 108mm waist width, the Tracer 108 provides above-average floatation. As a skier of 5’8” and around 155 lbs, I experienced no issues with tip dive, even in up to a foot of fresh powder. While my personal preference often leans towards powder skis in the 185-190 cm range, the 180 cm Tracer 108 served perfectly well as a touring ski on days promising fresh snowfall. For primarily resort-based skiing, the 188 cm version of the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 would likely be even more suitable.
The 2019 Armada Tracer 108 doesn’t boast extreme tip splay or an ultra-deep rocker line, yet it planes effectively and feels remarkably maneuverable, especially in the tight, tree-filled backcountry terrain common in Colorado. While it may not offer the same loose, pivoty sensation as some reverse camber skis, its balance of flotation and maneuverability in powder is impressive, particularly considering its performance in less-than-ideal conditions.
Navigating Soft Chop with the 2019 Armada Tracer 108
When conditions turn to soft chop, whether skiing over backcountry tracks or resort leftovers, the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 maintains predictability and intuitiveness. However, it’s important to note that this ski isn’t designed as a hard-charging, crud-busting machine. Weighing in at just under 1900 grams for the 180 cm length, and featuring a moderate flex pattern, the Tracer 108 performs best with a lighter, more agile skiing style in soft, choppy snow.
For skiers who prefer a more relaxed pace in chop, the design of the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 truly shines. Its forgiving nature and large sweet spot minimize feelings of imbalance, a crucial attribute for a lightweight 50/50 ski. When skiing a lighter ski like the Tracer 108 inbounds, some adjustment in skiing style is expected compared to heavier, dedicated resort skis. For a 50/50 ski, prioritizing predictability and intuitive handling over brute force stiffness is a worthwhile trade-off, especially in challenging snow conditions.
Groomed Run Performance of the 2019 Armada Tracer 108
Given its powder prowess, expectations for carving performance on groomed runs were moderate. However, testing at Taos Ski Valley revealed the 2019 Armada Tracer 108’s surprising versatility extends to corduroy.
Once on edge, the Tracer 108 felt intuitive and surprisingly powerful, particularly underfoot where it exhibits noticeable stiffness. Medium to large radius turns on relatively soft groomers were executed confidently, with reliable edge hold on consistent and smooth surfaces. However, as groomers deteriorated into chopped-up conditions later in the day, the Tracer 108 encountered some limitations. On bumpy groomers at higher speeds, the tips could be deflected off-line. Similar to soft chop, increased weight would enhance stability, but for a ski of its weight class, the 2019 Armada Tracer 108’s stability is commendable.
Mogul Skiing with the 2019 Armada Tracer 108
Moguls proved to be the one terrain type where the Tracer 108 didn’t fully resonate. In softer bumps, it felt somewhat sluggish. While forgiving and non-punishing in the tails, edge-to-edge transitions felt slower compared to skis of similar weight and rocker profiles.
However, for skiers prioritizing a less demanding mogul experience, where quick zipper lines aren’t the primary goal, the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 remains a viable option. Its maneuverability in steep terrain, where movements are slower and more deliberate, is a positive attribute, contrasting with its performance in rapid, tight bump lines.
Playfulness of the 2019 Armada Tracer 108
Despite its directional design, the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 boasts a forgiving, rounded flex pattern and ample tip and tail rocker, fostering playful skiing. This combination distinguishes it within the 50/50 category. While rewarding a forward stance, the tips and tails offer pop for jumps, and the ski readily releases for speed checks and slashing powder stashes.
The 50/50 ski category continues to expand, yet truly playful options remain somewhat limited. With the Atomic Backland FR 109 replaced by the more touring-focused Backland 107, the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 stands out even further for its playful character in the 50/50 realm. While not a freestyle ski, its design caters to a more relaxed, less aggressive skiing style than many directional 50/50 competitors.
Who is the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 For?
The 2019 Armada Tracer 108 is ideally suited as a true 50/50, one-ski quiver, particularly for regions like Colorado and Utah known for diverse snow conditions and terrain. While it may not excel as the absolute best in any single category, its consistent performance across various conditions and terrains makes it a reliable all-rounder.
For skiers prioritizing ultimate top-end stability over playful feel, burlier and stiffer skis are available. However, for those seeking a ski capable both inside and outside the resort, offering predictability and a more playful demeanor than many directional options, the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 is an excellent choice. Its predictable nature inspires confidence in variable conditions, a crucial trait for a touring ski. Furthermore, its weight strikes a balance, remaining light enough for skinning while providing sufficient mass for solid resort performance.
Bottom Line: 2019 Armada Tracer 108 Review
Armada’s description of the Tracer 108 as “a stable and predictable ski in versatile conditions, but added subtle rocker and taper regions to keep the Tracer series nimble and playful” accurately reflects its on-snow behavior. Extensive testing confirms the 2019 Armada Tracer 108’s predictability across a wide spectrum of conditions, its impressive stability for its weight, and its agility and playfulness relative to other directional skis in its class. For skiers seeking a versatile and fun-loving ski that can handle both backcountry tours and resort days, the 2019 Armada Tracer 108 is definitely worth considering.
