By Evelien Jansen
Armada Reliance 82 ti
Quick summary
The Reliance 82 Ti is a front‑side focused all‑mountain carving ski aimed at riders who want precise edge‑to‑edge response on groomers while retaining a bit of versatility for softer snow. With an 82 mm waist, EST All‑Mountain Rocker and Articulated Titanal Banding, it blends liveliness with controlled damping. It’s built to inspire confidence when loading aggressive edge angles and charging turns, yet its tip and tail rocker gives a forgiving touch where the piste softens. Overall it’s a groomer‑first tool with useful all‑mountain traits.
On‑piste performance
On snow the Reliance 82 Ti feels fast twitch and committed. Camber underfoot holds the edge through the arc while tip rocker helps rapid turn initiation, making short to medium radius carving feel precise and energetic. The titanal banding smooths chatter at speed and on mixed snow, giving a planted feel when you push. Its relatively narrow waist allows quick edge changes and lively fore/aft movement, though it won’t float like wider skis in deep soft snow.
Construction and specs explained
Construction blends a Caruba/Poplar wood core with Articulated Titanal Banding (ATB) and an AR100 full sidewall. Core: provides a lively, predictable flex. Titanal: adds damping and torsional rigidity for stability at speed. Sidewall and 2.1 All‑Mountain Edge: deliver consistent edge grip on hardpack. Base: Comp Series sintered UHMW with carbon for durability and speed. Rocker profile: EST All‑Mountain Rocker (tip/tail rocker with camber underfoot) gives quick turn initiation plus camber stability. Tip/waist/tail and radius dictate turn shape and responsiveness.
Fit, length choice and comparisons
Length choice matters: available in 150, 158, 166 and 174 cm with radius increasing by length. Shorter skis (150/158) feel lively and are better for tight turns or lighter skiers; mid‑sizes (166) suit mixed carving and occasional higher speed; the 174 offers max stability for heavier or faster riders. Compared to other mid‑width, titanal‑reinforced carving skis, the Reliance 82 Ti leans more toward front‑side aggression with a softer, more forgiving tip for variable patches.
Verdict: strengths and trade‑offs
In summary, strengths are precise on‑piste carving, quick edge‑to‑edge response and effective damping at speed. Trade‑offs include limited flotation off‑piste and noticeable weight in longer sizes. If you prioritize groomer performance with the ability to handle occasional soft snow, the Reliance 82 Ti is a compelling option. Choose a size based on preferred turn radius and whether you want agility or high‑speed stability.
Loading images...
Community Opinions
Missing a hand while carrying ski gear?
A friend of mine created Clipstic, the easy way to attach your poles to your skis! Using this link you get 10% off as well as support for Pick-a-ski!
Check it out!