Greetings. I've been visiting this site for years but never posted. I appreciate all the reviews, news, and the forums.
I need some advice on buying a new slalom ski. Here's my situation: I moved to eastern WA and won't be able to test-drive a variety of skis before buying. I am 48 years old. Used to occasionally ski competitively and could consistently run the course at 32 off. Now I don't have access to a course and just ski recreationally with family, but still ski very aggressively, have good form, etc. For the past ten years I have been on a Goode 9634 65.5 160AMP. I have absolutely loved this ski and it has suited my style perfectly. Why I need a new ski: in addition to the fact that technology has advanced a lot in the last 10 years, when I got the 9600 I weighed 165-170. Now I weigh around 180. I'm 6'2". I've had a minor back injury, though I'm probably as strong as I've ever been. I think I need a larger ski to take pressure off my back and enjoy skiing more. The ski just feels too small now and I can only do 3-4 sets before my back aches and I'm exhausted.
So, I'm looking for a new ski that I can still ski hard, but that I can age with better into my 50s and still keep enjoying my favorite sport. I generally ski at 22-32 off and 32-34 mph. Again, I wish I could test a bunch of skis, but that isn't realistic. I've thought about the Goode Wideride carbon core, but don't know if I'd hate the wide ski, how it would handle the wakes, etc. I've skied on a few Goode skis over the years and have really felt comfortable on them, so would probably lean that direction again, but open to all suggestions.
Any recommendations for how I decide or for particular ski suggestions? All help is very much appreciated.
