Nice Jim....a lot of great thoughts.
When I start thinking about new skis, I start with finding out as much info about that ski first and foremost from this site and then Powder, Ski Press, SKi and Skiing. I kind of get an overall feel from the magazines...like a general consensus of sorts. I do trust Peters reviews as I have never to date found any major discrepancy in those reviews. I prefer to buy new and get the latest technology from the industry when possible. Skiing is a passion with me so I figure that's the one place I like to spoil myself. I need confidence in my equipment so getting gear with the latest protection and performance is important to me. Starting from the bottom up....cause that's where it all happens. Ok Ron,....I know you start from the top down cause multiple and co-ordinated outfits are just as important to you.....hey live and let live!!!
I target the ski based on the conditions I will be using it for for say 75% of the time and my skiing ability. It's interesting where I have seen articles on the Head IM77's referring to it's "thrashing" or "stiff" tail, I never ever once experienced that kind of feeling from the ski. Those comments came not from this forum either. Those kind of comments sure make me wonder..."what the heck are they talking about???!?!?!?" Still, my primary task is gathering as much info as possible. It's funny, sometimes either just before ski season starts or even mid ski season, my wife will see me pouring over tons of magazine articles, you know, the gear sections and asks."ok, so whataya doing,"? Of course I say "oh, "just checking on the pretty colors" but secretly, I think she knows I've "GOT THE ITCH"!
So...after mulling over all the wonderful choices, I start narrowing in on my target...smart bomb skiology!....Now, I usually prefer to demo a targeted ski. I have purchased skis based on reviews by Peter. I purchased my Head IM75's based on it's "one quiver" title given back then. Eventually I came to find myself....saved by my Michael, that I was a 2 quiver ski guy. I purchased my Fischer RX 8's based on how well the reviews were, how some friends liked them, and how my buddies at the ski shopped raved about them. I took a shot and have no regrets. Still, I prefer to demo skis whenever possible.
Well, the 82's I never demoed. I did know that I really liked my IM 75, the IM 77's and Ron was head over tea cups on the 82's. I also know that Michael spoke highly of the ski. Given my previous experience with the Head mid fats, I feel the 82 will be exactly what I'm looking for.
My first time out on the 82's will tell me if I made the correct decision but feeling pretty confindent. I do feel fortunate that I can be out there enjoying the mountain, that I have a desire to constantly improve and challenge myself.
Good ski weather, good attitude and good gear go a long way in my book!
Best,
Gary