steezeling
Certified Ski Diva
I am a type 1 beginner/intermediate skier (5'8 ~125 lbs). I've started demoing skis because I'm interested in purchasing some skis/boots for next season. The Blizzard Black Pearls were the first ski recommended for me so I took them out in some decent conditions (powder w/some icy spots) and WOW did I have a bad time! I kept crossing my skis and turning was basically impossible. I read that these skis required aggressive skiing so later I tried essentially yeeting myself over the tips but I still I crashed multiple times on green runs and ended the day early. I felt completely out of control and unable to handle groomed runs.
A couple weeks later I demo'ed the Volkl Secret 92s (163) and had a fantastic time. I was a little concerned about the length because of my time on the Black Pearls but that ended up not being an issue. The Volkls felt super stable and were very forgiving. I noticed that when I made mistakes I was able to correct myself easily, unlike the Black Pearls. I went down runs that I crashed on previously and had zero problems. The only downside to these skis was that they weren't very nimble and my quads hurt for about a week after. I liked them but I don't think they'd be a good choice for me long term because of how wide they are.
I'm interested in demo'ing other skis and so I'm wondering if people suggestions for other skis to demo based on my experience. I also wonder if people feel the Black Pearl's "ski long" and if I should try a shorter length.
Thanks for reading, as a new-ish skier I'm so happy this community exists!
A couple weeks later I demo'ed the Volkl Secret 92s (163) and had a fantastic time. I was a little concerned about the length because of my time on the Black Pearls but that ended up not being an issue. The Volkls felt super stable and were very forgiving. I noticed that when I made mistakes I was able to correct myself easily, unlike the Black Pearls. I went down runs that I crashed on previously and had zero problems. The only downside to these skis was that they weren't very nimble and my quads hurt for about a week after. I liked them but I don't think they'd be a good choice for me long term because of how wide they are.
I'm interested in demo'ing other skis and so I'm wondering if people suggestions for other skis to demo based on my experience. I also wonder if people feel the Black Pearl's "ski long" and if I should try a shorter length.
Thanks for reading, as a new-ish skier I'm so happy this community exists!