New ski question

I'd like to buy new skis this year. What I'm looking for is a ski that's wider than my current pair (which have a waist in the low 60s), but I don't think I really want to get a pure powder ski. Realistically, I probably spend 50% of my time on groomers, so I don't think I need something with a > 90 mm waist. So I'd like something that will be good in all conditions (yes, I know this is a panacea).

It's safe to say I'm on the lower end of the ability spectrum on this board. Here are a few ideas I had. Any comments?

Volkl 7 24 Pro
K2 Apache Recon
Head Monster IM 75
Head Monster IM 85

I'm 6'2" and 185, so I'm thinking I'll probably get something between 180 and 185.

I know a lot of people rip on the integrated binding skis. Why exactly? Should I totally shy away from these or should I consider them?

And thank you for helping the JONG!

I've got the Apache Recon on my list for this year, but am getting more and more intrigued by the Legend 8000. Sounds like it should be worth putting on your list to check out.

I think you will be surprised how well a 90mm+ ski can handle groomers and hard snow. Go fat and you will be happy.

1

190 CMH volkl. and guess what I have some for sale ;)

The volkl and the head 85 are nice and stiff too ...

Go fat, you won't regret it....ever. I live on the EC and ski 90% of my time here and I ski 90mm waisted skis every day and have had no regrets in 2 years.

I ski on 90mm waist boards year round, even on the ribbon of death, and love the stability they bring to everyday skiing. Like others have said, you will be surprised how some fat skis perform with these conditions. The IM 85s are a good ski all around. I think crinkle rides on these and he may be able to give you a little more insight. You might also want to look into either an old G4 or a Volkl V-Pro.

AD,

Get something fat! Much deep snow expected this season! Can't wait.

I demoed the Head IM 75's at Mammoth this spring for a few days and I absolutely loved them. A real solid ski that did well everywhere I took it. Decent in bumps, a nice edge hold on the morning "ice" (west coast ice), real smooth on groomers, and when I pushed the throttle it didn't dissapoint. From what you said this seems like it would be a good ski for you. 75 or 85? I dunno. Thats a personal choice. As far as the 724/G40 go, I've never skied them, but I hear they are like a fat race ski...

Product Information
Brand New 2004 Volkl 724 Axe 4 Skis With Free 140 binding

Volkl 2004 New 724 Series AX 4 Skis. Replacing the Vertigo G4,
the 724 Series AX4 is for soft snow enthusiasts. Constructed for
high-speed thrill rides through varied conditions . 83mm waist for
optimum floatation. New Power Frame construction with Sensor wood core.
Improved structural top sheet called Fiber Top is cut and scratch
resistent. 3D Side-cut Technology with a balanced side cut provide a
hugh sweet spot. Sidecut: 118/83/106mm.
For powder skiers who only ski the groomed
when they have to.

Sidecut: 118-83-106mm.
Radius: 22.9m @188cm.
Construction: Power Frame.
Core: Sensorwood



$669 at Sports Liquidator.com

You just advised a fellow mag to buy Markers, Foggy.

AD - you might like the v-pro. Versatile ski, in my opinion they lean more toward groomers than pow. V-pros are around for reasonable prices.

Quote:

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Originally posted by optics
You just advised a fellow mag to buy Markers, Foggy.

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When I looked at his link I didn't see the ski with the Marker binding, but I do see just the ski for $399. The longest length they have is 178, though. Probably a pretty good deal. That ski isn't in their lineup at all this year.

I'm going to check out the Ski Bonkers sale in Seattle this weekend to see what they have. I'm sure there will be some good deals on last year's models.

Oops, I'm an idiot. Assumed marker, that's what volkl's "system" uses.

It's buried, but there, AD. Skiing>skis>volkl 2004

Skied last season with im85s and liked them. Super stable, plows through everything, decent turnradius (20m for 179cm) so you can enjoy some turns on the groomer if you prefer that.

The only gripes were that in softer powder the float isnt that good due to a very stiff tip/front section of the ski. And in steep´s where you had to do jumpturns the tail tended to catch a bit.

That ski in 186 could do it for you, as you are taller and heavier than i am.