B-Squads rule, plain and simple. I have the 184s and they are truly an all mountain monster. Not for lots of groomers, although they WILL hold an edge on just about anything - they are really a ski for off piste. Float like a butterfly and ski like your ass is on fire. If deep and steep is where you are at, then these bad boys are worth at least a demo. I bought em sight unseen.

I just got these skis prior to a trip to Val d'Isere, and I must admit they became my new favorite pair. They are heavy and demand speed, but given what they want, they cut through anything like butter. In deep powder I had to work hard to keep them floating, but the snow was extremely dry and light, so that could have been the cause for the "insufficient lift"

definitely two different skis within the size run. forget about the lower sizes. the big ones are wider and thicker. almost 3/4" thick in the middle. being so big and stiff, they cut through anything and don't lose speed in powder. easily an everyday ski. if you have a ski on edge, it doesn't matter if the waist is 104mm or 80mm. if you can turn a ski, you can ski the b-squad. tall and fat IS the best way to go through life!

Please note that the 184 and shorter lengths are totally different skis than the 189 and 194cm. The shorter lengths are great, versatile, do-all western skis with a moderate flex. The 189 (which I own) and 194 are big mountain monsters. They are super stiff and will kick your ass if you are not on the ball. But in the right conditions, and with the right pilot, these are the best big mountain rippers I've ever been on. Absolutely sick.