rob2533908

the zealot could be a good option to fill the gap youre describing. this has more of a race ski construction than previous years for sure. however, even the new zealot will not be as stiff as your current set up and therefore, it will be less stable in all conditions except powder.

my suggestion would be to take a look at the new blizzard bodacious. it is built like a fat race ski and has a very very very subtle rocker profile running throughout the ski. this allows it to rip on variable/crud/hardpack conditions with ease while having a poppy, playful feel in powder when you need it.

this boot is definitely a very stiff and responsive boot. the carbon cuff does an excellent job of eliminating all rearward flex. this boot does have a slightly more aggressive forward lean than most boots but once you get used to it you will find that the lean automatically puts you into an athletic stance on your skis with knees slightly bent and your weight on the balls of your feet. also, this fit of the boot allows more than average room in the toe box compared to other 98mm lasted boots. overall, it is a very powerful boot that will take you anywhere on the mountain.

this boot has a 98mm last which refers to the widest part of the shell. i believe this model is the 10-11 or 09-10 boot.

hello, the Volkl Mantra is probably the most versatile ski on the market. It will really help you in the deep powder and pretty much rips on everything. this ski can hold its edge extreemely well on New England ice and will float great in the powder. as far as bumps are concerned, it won't be that great but definately will work. this ski truly does it all. many people ask about sizing and it really depends on what type of skiing you intend to do and also your personal skiing style. i am 5'4 130 and ski a 170 and i love it. what really matters is the skiers ability to flex the ski. skiers with more weight can flex the ski better. based on your description of yourself, i would not hesitate to say that you could comfortably ski the 177 and probably even the 184. i would go with the 184 if you like to fly down the mountain. the 184 would also perform better in the powder as it will distribute your weight better although with the 184, you will sacrifice performance in the bumps. so pretty much the 177 will better for tighter turns and better control and the 184 will be a more aggresive ski.

i bought the bionic in one size higher than usual and layer my north face denali under it. with that combination its practically bombproof. i've been outside in sub zero temps with them and have been perfectly fine. pair the warmth with the windproofness and the water resistancy of the bionic and its great!!!!!!!!