Would the 158 Malolo be hard to turn in the trees? I'm 5'6", and about 190-195lbs geared up with pack. Based on weight alone I'd go with the 158. My regular board is a 159 T6. Just wondering if there would be a big difference in the trees between 154 & 158. Tree riding would only be occasional though (5-10%). I just got back from Silverton (bowls and chutes, but also some tree runs) and a Malolo probably would have served me well there (my T6 was OK - SMX would have been better). I'm just thinking a 154 sounds short. Especially considering the weight range Burton recommends for it. But at the same time, B also recommends downsizing 3-6cm from a regular board (which is my 159 T6).So what is recommended - a 154 or 158 Malolo?

The 158 would be perfect, no problem. The 154 will be too short for you. I know Burton says size down, but you could be riding at least 162 pretty easily at Silverton on a classic "freeride" board (no taper, but long), so a 158 Malolo would make since in that context, since it would give you similar float in deep snow. The 159 T6 sounds long for you, since it is such a stiff board--it sounds like it may have been trying to ride you at Silverton. Terje and Nico Mueller can ride whatever they want, as two of the best big mountain boarders on the planet--but that doesn't mean what they ride would be a good choice for anybody else. In pow and soft snow, the Malolo would be a better ride than the T6: it floats better and goes easier on your back leg, it turns pretty quickly since your weight is set back, and it is a great all-rounder (outside of the park). If you ride Silverton often, or in good conditions almost anywhere, the Malolo would be a good board for the quiver. Hope that helps!

It just sounds like you were "overpowered" by the t6...sounds like softer would help you until you pass the intermediate level of riding and grow into being able to ride the t6 in any condition and terrain comfortably..

158.. .No reason you shouldn't be able to ride a t6 in Bowls and chutes, in tight situations and on steeps, you want a stiff/responsive board ..Just Check the burton Team video's and check out the insane steeps/chutes that Terje and Nico ride--- all on a t6. Clearly, you're riding a board or mountain above your skill level..Maybe think about getting a more mellow board --A burton Custom might work for you. .

so are you saying the softer the better for tight trees?