The 2011 Volkl Gotama comes back with the same dimensions and ELP rocker as last year, but one difference is the stepdown sidewall to help keep the chipping down on the skis. Both the 2010 and 2011 Volkl Gotama skis are extremely versatile in all snow conditions not just powder. They truly are awesome in powder allowing you to float through anything. They are not as stiff as the older Gotama’s but they are much more versatile thanks to the ELP Rocker which keeps you a float in the deeper snow but also will allow you to play in the bumps and on the side of the trail with ease. With the ELP design the ski can release in and out of turns more easily and when wanting to do slashes and smear turns you do not have to worry about the tips diving into the crud or powder. If you are looking for a versatile one ski quiver ski then the Volkl Gotama is an excellent choice. Thanks to a wood core the Volkl Gotama Skis will also handle high speed turns and some of the steepest of terrain.
2011 Armada AR7 All Mountain Freestyle Skis
The 2011 Armada AR7 Skis have been completely redesigned for the 2011 season and from the reaction of how they are selling Armada killed it with this ski. Not only is the all new AR7 wider but they also adjusted the sidewall making it even more versatile of a ski for not only park riding but all mountain skiing. If you are looking for a one ski quiver to ski all mountain and freestyle the Armada AR7 with its 85mm waist and AR50 sidewall makes for smooth landings and great edge hold on firm conditions. Armada is all about versatility with their skis and the new Armada AR7 has some of the most versatility you can get in a freestyle ski. The new sidewall also allowed them to reduce the weight of the ski even though it is wider. From all indications Armada looks to be just about sold out of AR7’s for the year so don’t wait too long as you will not be getting these later in the year!