Blizzard Black Pearl 2018 vs Blizzard Black Pearl 2020

[MissySki]

If you're truly on the beginner side of intermediate, and aren't exploring powder much yet, then I'd go even narrower with a Nordica Astral 84, Head Total Joy, Blizzard Black Pearl 82, Rossignol Experience 84W. Something along those lines that is a bit narrower but certainly a major step up from a rental ski that will give you confidence and handle some off-piste stuff, too. Most of those I mentioned above can be found fairly inexpensively. I know Ski Essentials had the Astra 84 for around $200, but I think they were sold out of most lengths.

I can highly recommend that as well if you don’t ski much powder. The Astral 84 is a super fun ski, very forgiving so would be great to improve on. They are great on groomers and fun in bumps too. I bought a pair for around $200 last season (without bindings) to play on firmer days and work on bumps and I’m an advanced skier. Just don’t skimp on the sizing because they are a softer ski.

 

[VickiK]

Yes, a longer ski will be more stable than a short ski. Not saying go super-long for your height, just don't skimp as @MissySki says. Example, I'm 5'2" and a 159cm BP is fine for me. I would not go shorter.

 

[newboots]

I am 5'4" 145lbs and an intermediate (but older) skier. I love my BP 82s in 157. I ski in the East, and they are good on hardpack and ice. I've never skied them on powder!

I don't really have anything to compare them to, other than my old Quattros, so I can't offer strengths/weaknesses.

 

[blugrace]

I ski in CO, Utah and NM. Some powder days but there was ice and crud last time we went

 

[blugrace]

Any thought on the BP 82? I'm thinking that might be a good option too

 

[newboots]

Any thought on the BP 82? I'm thinking that might be a good option too

My post above was about the 82. It's easy to get them all mixed up. Did I ever say we are happy you're here?

 

[blugrace]

Thank you! yes it is easy to get them mixed up. I think I need to step away from looking at skis for a while!

 

[marzNC]

I ski in CO, Utah and NM. Some powder days but there was ice and crud last time we went

Any thought on the BP 82? I'm thinking that might be a good option too

For context, when I started skiing more out west about 10 years ago, I got "all-mountain" skis that were 75 underfoot. I was a confident older intermediate (learned to ski as a teen) who moved into low advanced after starting to take lessons. Took a few years before there was any reason to consider another pair of skis.

What I have now as my all-mountain skis for trips out west are 85 underfoot. They cover 90% of the days I ski at big mountains. Catching a powder storm is a rare bonus. I'm perfectly happy to rent powder skis when I get lucky. It's a small additional cost considering the travel expenses and lift tickets/passes.

 

[MissySki]

Yes, a longer ski will be more stable than a short ski. Not saying go super-long for your height, just don't skimp as @MissySki says. Example, I'm 5'2" and a 159cm BP is fine for me. I would not go shorter.

Yes, exactly! I grabbed them in my usual preferred length which is mid 160s. The Astral 84 comes in a 165 and that feels like the perfect length on them for me. I’m 5’4” ~125lbs.

 

[blugrace]

I've found some166 BP 82 and I've gone ahead and ordered. Thanks to everyone for your help - I can't wait to try them out!

 

[blugrace]

I spoke too soon! I got an email this morning to say that they are out of stock - so the search continues. What are your thought on a Sheeva 9s? I'm a little afraid they'll be too much ski for me? I'm happy on all blues and easy blacks, but I'm cautious on them. Thanks!

 

[scandium]

The Sheeva 9s are a step wider again from the range you have been looking at and may be a big jump if you've been learning on narrower hire skis. Have you thought about some of the other suggestions you've been given in the mid-80s range, and considering ex demos for a better price if you're looking for a good deal? Powder 7 has the Experience 84s with demo bindings on sale in the 168cm length with only 15 days' use.

 

[blugrace]

Super helpful - thank you

 

[diymom]

Powder7 also has a demo pair of the BP82 in the length you are looking for.