Sheeva 9 Length Advice Needed : )

[brockin_nrolling]

I am an intermediate to advanced skier (F) in need of new skis. Demoed the Sheeva 9's, 162 CM last week and loved them - I think I could go a smidge longer, but did not demo the 168's - so just a bit hesitant. Debating between 162 CM and 168 CM. I am 5'5" and weight ranges from 130 to 135 pounds. I do not do park skiing and want to ski better on powder/ looking for skis I can grow into.

I am leaning towards 168 CM - but wanted some advice before I hit the purchase button. Is longer better for what I am looking for? Thanks!

 

[MissySki]

I’d go with the 168, the Sheevas have a lot of rocker. When I demoed the Sheevas I was on the 168 with stats very similar to yours 5’4 and 125-130lbs.

 

[elemmac]

168. I’m an advanced skier, your height, but have 5-10 lbs on you…I’ve demoed the 168, and it felt pretty perfect for length.

 

[Emski528]

I ride the Sheevas in 162. 5’3 125 lbs. They are right for me but I would go longer for sure if I was a little taller. I really enjoy them. I previously skiied 2018 black pearls and they are totally different. To me they feel much stiffer and less forgiving but still super fun and maneuverable. I hope you love them.

 

[beane]

I think either could work and would decide based on terrain you tend to prefer. For open bowls of power, longer is good. For tight trees/moguls/etc you might prefer shorter. If it tends to be icy, longer might be nice for more effective edge. Longer will feel more stable at speed but marginally less maneuverable.
I am almost 5'8" and 155ish and ski the 168.. but tend to be in trees a lot and enjoy the confidence of turning on a dime (which is a sheeva characteristic regardless of length--I think).

 

[contesstant]

I'm also 5'5" 130 ish and have the 168 and they are perfect at that length. You'll especially want that extra length for powder. They are my dedicated powder skis (and I ski in Utah!) and they are an absolute blast.

 

[leia1979]

Same height and weight as you with another vote for the 168. I have yet to find a 168 Sheeva to demo, but I did demo a couple of 167-168 length skis last weekend that have about the same amount of rocker.