A free-riding showdown with unrestrained riding. ARMADA "WHITEWALKER 108" or RMU "APOSTLE 105"? │26-27 New Model Comparison

The differences in the "feel" and "character" of skis cannot be fully understood from the spec numbers alone. This is the depth and enjoyment of choosing skis. Therefore, we've picked out two similar 26-27 model skis to highlight. Let's explore their individual characteristics based on user test ride reviews. Which one will you choose?

ARMADA "WHITEWALKER 108" or RMU "APOSTLE 105"?

Both are easy-to-handle, versatile freeride models, but..

Model	D (Dimension)	R (radius)
WHITEWALKER 108	D=134-108-129mm	R = 16.5m (180cm)
APOSTLE 105	D=137-105-126mm	R = 18m (184cm)

"WHITEWALKER 108" is this kind of ski

The ARMADA "Whitewalker" series, created as Sammy Carlson's signature model and designed for backcountry performance, now includes a new 108mm model, in addition to the 116mm model used by Toby Rafford to achieve 2nd place overall in the FWT, and the 121mm model from the sustainable "Zero Collection." This lightweight twin-tip model is easy to handle for powder beginners and women alike

Ria Yoshida of "Paddle Club," who is a big fan of this series, shared her impressions of the new model..

The use of carbon fiber achieves a balance between lightness and stability, which are often contradictory. Its greatest feature is its lightness and nimble handling, allowing for smooth operation with minimal effort. It maintains stability even at high speeds, remaining firmly gripping the snow surface.

Turning is surprisingly easy, considering its wide 108mm width. The tip enters naturally, allowing for smooth changes of direction. It accelerates well in the latter half of the turn, seamlessly transitioning into the next. This entire sequence of movements is extremely speedy and agile.

In powder, it has the power to cut through the snow and maintain speed even in deep snow. It is also easy to slide sideways, allowing for precise speed control. The tail moves flexibly, so it doesn't catch at the end of turns, making it suitable for terrain play and backcountry skiing. I think it's a versatile model.

"APOSTLE 105" is this kind of ski

The "APOSTLE," a beloved icon for over 10 years since its introduction, is RMU's versatile series that can handle anything. This model sits between the 96mm center width, which excels on groomed terrain, and the 114mm big mountain specification developed in collaboration with American rider Alex Armstrong. Designed for intermediate to advanced riders who also incorporate freestyle elements such as jumps and slashes, it comes in three variations: a standard model with a wood core, a performance model combining wood and metal, and a touring model with a carbon structure

Kota Ito of "Well Tuned" took this car for a test drive

The tip and tail are flexible and have a stiffness that doesn't hinder turns. The center is stable, and it has a straightforward character that turns in the direction you want to go. The turning ability feels higher than the spec R18m, and especially on soft snow at low speeds, you can freely control the radius of your turns. On the other hand, the edge grip on hard snow is not that high.

There is rocker in the tip and tail, and a thin camber underfoot. Even lighter riders or those with weaker foot pressure will find it easy to get the board onto the snow surface, making it easy for anyone to handle.

It feels lighter when you're actually riding it than when you're holding it, and I think the rocker shape and flexible flex make the swing weight even lighter.

In short, it's a board that anyone can use. If I had to recommend one, it would be to the ambitious person who wants to ski from one end of the slope to the other.

User Yuichi Asakura apparently felt that after test driving it, it was a car he would like to own...

When I borrowed the demo board and headed to the lift, the moment I took my first skating step, I felt its weight, perhaps because it wasn't a board with strong rebound. However, once I started gliding, the weight became a source of stability, and I didn't feel any of the heavy handling I had been concerned about.

The demo conditions were slushy snow with natural moguls forming. Despite this, I was able to pass through smoothly.

When I tried to slide the board, it slid cleanly with just the right amount of resistance, and it was very easy to handle without being overly sensitive. The rider also needs to avoid using brute force and focus on softer movements, which is just right.

It has enough leeway to make you feel safe and relaxed on groomed slopes and natural runs (rough terrain), so I think it would be even better in high-season conditions. I felt that this board could be enjoyed for a long time, from high season to early spring. It's a board I'd like to buy when the time is right.

What we learned from the comparison

Both bikes share the common characteristic of being versatile freeride skis that allow you to freely ski the entire mountain, from powder to groomed slopes. Will you choose the playful WHITEWALKER 108 with its short radius for nimble movement and fun, or the APOSTLE 105, which offers an excellent balance of maneuverability and stability, allowing you to ski intuitively regardless of snow conditions or slopes? What kind of freeriding do you want to experience?