K2 Mt. Baker Alpine Touring Ski - 2008 BCS

They were being sold for $125 but, I think I could get them for $100

The layers of metal may make this a bit stiffer than a perfect match, but they will make the ski feel solid on the groomers and at higher speeds. The length should be right for your ability and size. Their may be other skis out there that would be a more perfect match, but if you are getting a good price, these will be a great ski for what you seek. Hope that helps. Enjoy - It's still snowing here in SLC!

No Problem. These were a "flat" ski without pre-drilled holes. Your only concern would be if the hole pattern of the previous skier's binding was too close to the NTN pattern, it may weaken the ski.

Was my initial answer no helpful? I've asked a couple other guys about it, and they agreed with me.

From what I understand, the Mt. Baker has a notch for skins in the slightly raised tail, but the Work Stinx have a semi-twin tip with no skin notch. Also, I don't think they make either ski anymore.

Think the 181 is a better bet for you on this ski...I am 5'8, 138 lbs, and ski tested the 174 and that was the right size for me. If you are planning to ski powder and tour as well, the longer length would also definitely be the better fit.

Absolutely!

That's not strictly true, most tele skis are more flexible than an equivalent sized alpine ski.

Yes, except if they have an asymmetrical sidecut, like the rapid transits from G3, but not many "tele skis" actually have anything that makes them different from Alpine skis, other than low weight for touring.

I've got a similar Q. Have considered both skis, and also the Karhu Spire.
I see the upside of converting the Work Stinx, is that when my A. Kailas tele set-up dies or I want a fatter AT set-up, i could convert the Work Stinx as tele w/o re-drilling. Anyone ski the Work Stinx as AT? Any comparison between these K2 skis and the karhu spire?
Thanks.
AC

I've got a similar Q. Have considered both skis, and also the Karhu Spire.
I see the upside of converting the Work Stinx, is that when my A. Kailas tele set-up dies or I want a fatter AT set-up, i could convert the Work Stinx as tele w/o re-drilling. Anyone ski the Work Stinx as AT? Any comparison between these K2 skis and the karhu spire?

The graphics on the Mount Baker rules!Plus it is a durable ski!

if i were you i would look at a BD or a G3 ski (i think k2s are to soft). as for boots go with a 4 buckle boot that fits your foot. if you are going to buy a boot from backcountry.com than i would take a 12 pack of good beer to your local shop and get fitted. having a boot that fits your foot is super important.

They're a bit stiffer, since alpine turns put all the weight on one ski and tele turns distribute it over both. They'll be fine though, just a bit more aggressive.