elemmac
Angel Diva
The Head Total Joy skis have got my attention based on what I have read online. I think I want a ski about 153cm with a rockered tip or tip and tail and a waist no wider than 78mm.
Sorry I meant to say Head Super Joy but Total Joy might be ok as well
In my opinion, I think the Total Joy would suit your needs as a one-ski-does-it-all better than the Super Joy. They're very similar skis, but the Total Joy will add that extra little bit of versatility in a wider range of conditions. They're still a front-side shaped ski (with a fairly flat tail), so they carve well despite their width being a bit wider.
Is it terrible that demoing sounds like a huge hassle? Once I get to the mountain I don’t want to stop skiing to go to the ski shop and wait in line, etc. I have also researched cars online and decided to buy without test driving, which some people think is nuts.
I kind of just want to research online, get suggestions, and make a “reasonable” choice and ski it!
I'm one of the (probably few) people on this site that would say this isn't a terrible idea at all. I've bought many skis without trying them first, 3 out of 5 of my current skis were bought without demoing. If you are to buy without demoing, I would recommend first doing your own research (which it seems like you're starting to do), but then buying from a reputable local shop.
Do your own research first, so you have some idea if they're selling you short (literally and figuratively). Buying from a shop and developing a relationship with them will set you up for more success in the long haul. If you end up reeeeaaaallllly hating the skis, most shops will work with you on exchanging them (maybe not full refund...but something) if you bought based on their recommendations. This gives you some security.
Personally, I would go a bit wider...venturing into the low-80's for width. I think the extra width can provide an advancing skier a lot of confidence in those tricky conditions, without sacrificing much edge hold when perfecting your carving skills. I think you're spot on with your length, 153cm, that you mentioned. Anywhere in the low to mid-150s should suit you well for an all-mountain ski.
Lastly, I will add that demoing does have it's advantages. It will start to get you familiar with how different shapes and constructions affect your skiing. It'll give you an opportunity to experiment with things you probably wouldn't have bought...and sometimes those are the skis you end up liking most. Without demoing, you don't know what you don't know...The ski you purchase will probably feel great in comparison to what you've been on, but there could be a better ski for you out there (some people are okay with that mentality, and others will wonder "what if". The fact that you'll buy a car non-test-driven tells me you'll be fine without demoing, and you won't overthink the "what if's").
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