Ok, so I have a three-quiver setup and am wondering if ski technology has progressed to the point that it's worth upgrading.? Here's the setup:
'01 Olin Sierra Limited 185cm - Somewhat my early/late season hard snow ski.
'03 Rossignol Bandit XXX 185cm - My powder ski.?
'04 Dynastar Intuitiv 74 182cm - My do everything else ski.?
So, anything so hot it's worth upgrading??(I ski out west, mostly Utah and usually stay home if there's not been a storm in the last week or so, prefer off-piste, but mix in some carving and moguls on occasion.)
Hi KW,
Your quiver consist of top quality early generation shaped skis. However current skis are a leap ahead, so the need to upgrade exists.
The current technology provides more sidecut with better construction. Most skis on the market today will have a tighter turning radius yet are more stable than your existing quiver. They will provide higher performance with less effort.
You stated that you stay home unless there's been a storm and that you ski Utah.
I would Demo the Volkl AC4 to replace the Intuitive 74. The Head Monster 82 is another high performance midfat to consider. These ski provide strong on-piste edgegrip with a go-anywhere versatility that's ideal for Utah conditions.
I would keep the XXX, newer wide rides are more versatile, but in deep snow the XXX is still highly regarded.
The Olin is the most out-of-date ski. If you still want a quick hard snow ski after replacing your midfat, consider the Fischer RX8. I would actually select the RX9 for Utah, but the RX8 is quicker and more fun.
The Fischer can be found for around $450 to 550 with bindings, the Volkl AC4 will add $200 to that, with the Heads in-between price wise.
Cheers,
Michael