[Deschodt]

Just returned from my first snow trip since moving out of FL. (Tahoe, nice snow)
I had not skied in 15 years, those new funny shaped skis were new to me, and I must confess that the first couple of turns right off the lift were a bit of a leap of faith ;-) As it turns out, it IS like riding a bike (I skied a lot before that big gap), and after a couple of blue runs to warm up and play it safe (I'm older), I went straight back to black runs and did OK. Phew...

Now, I'd been told by you guys those new skis were easier etc... I agree, they turn easier and certainly eased my return to the slopes. But I'm not a fan yet. Seems that my style of skiing was better suited to my longer older Dynastar Course GS (more giant slalom than quick turns, I like speed and long lazy high speed turns on fresh compacted snow, with only just enough turns to prevent me from going *too* fast). Those new skis turn on a dime, but seem nervous and unstable on sustained high speed turns... I rented stuff to help me decide, tried 2 kinds on different days (Elan and Volkl), asked for advanced level equipment, yet both looked small to me as sized by the attendant (just higher than the chin) and both felt more or less the same. Easy for quick turns, not super confidence-inducing at higher speeds... I'm not generalizing, maybe they are crap rentals ? I don't do much powder, not too many moguls either (too old)... What would you recommend in the new stuff for high speed/stability and giant slalom style skiing? I've been told (after I returned my equipment) to go +1 next time on length. Not sure if that'll be enough.... I'd like to buy something soon and avoid the rental lines next time !