UT Marker Volkl Rep

Neil, these are the 2012 models and the sizing has been adjusted to fit 1/2 size larger. Example - traditionally I wear a 9usm shoe in most running shoes, I have worn 9.5usm Hoka until the adjustment and now I'm back in a 9usm Hoka. Happy Trails. Mike C - Hoka Rep.

Where are you skiing?

This is a brand new version of the Mantra with a slightly wider waist(98mm vs 96mm) then years past and Tip Rocker. If you like to ski faster with longer turn shapes and especially if you will be in open terrain, 177. If you are skiing harder snow conditions and make tighter turn shapes, 170.

Right on the mark or like Jamie says +.5 is great. Much more versatile ski this year with the new geometry and Tip Rocker.

The 2011/2012 Katana features new and true sizing (177, 184, 191, 198), new shape (143/112/132), new full rocker profile that has been integrated into the new molds instead of being pressed into the ski and definitely a new flex pattern. The 177 and 184 have a Human flex pattern suitable for any level skier looking for a Big Mountain ski that can handle varying snow conditions and difficult terrain. The 191 and 198 have an athlete flex pattern better suited for larger skiers or skiers looking for a Big Mountain ski that they can stomp on when things get dicey (i.e., Ian McIntosh, Kevin Quinn)

Ben, not sure if your Shiro mounting position question has been answered yet... If you ski switch a lot don't be afraid of moving forward +3 and beyond. If you are a more traditional directional skier then +1 to +2 has been working great for athletes and company reps alike.

Gotama to Katana sizing is as follows... 170 Gotama = 176 Katana, 178 G = 183 K, 186 G = 190 K, 194 G = 197 K ... This has led to much internal debate and I can't tell you why it works out this way just that both skis ski great.

As Jess said you'll gain high speed variable snow stability and float in the powder in the Katana and a more playful versatility with the Gotama. Hope this helps.

The only thing I could add to that is that the new Katana is also more durable. Like the Explosiv this ski will go down in the books as one the best of all time!

For east coast trees I would recommend the 178. Volkl's ELP (elongated low profile) rocker design helps the skis maneuverability at slow speeds by allowing the ski to pivot with ease and helps the stability of the ski at high speed by keeping more edge in contact with the snow. The Gotama floats high in the soft snow and rips the groomers... would be a great option for east coast soft snow ski.

178 should work nicely! New Gotama measures true cord length which means they come out of the box a little longer then most. If you were looking for a high speed resort ski for mixed terrain and snow conditions I might recommend the 186 but whereas you are looking for a BC tele ski the 178 should give you more versatility and maneuverability in tight spots.

The 110mm brake of the Marker Royal Family bindings will clear a 115mm ski with no problem. Rough measurement looks like 117mm clearance.