Hi everyone, I would like to ask the community's advice on ski choice. I'm a level 7, perhaps 8 on good days (per the most recent instructors I trusted) 44 yo skier, looking to continue progressing and exploring terrain. I live on the East Coast, but try to take 1-2 trips a year to big mountains. Currently on a pair of Volkl RTM 84s, the 2016 or 17 model (the generation before they introduced the 3D glass business, so very similar to the current models I gather). I absolutely love these skis on hard pack. However, I find myself wanting more in a couple of different aspects: some versatility, with ability to get a bit off piste in some fresh snow (they didn't float in deep powder in the Alps, for example), and in moguls (also not a strength for this ski); and, if possible, a more relaxed ski, if that makes sense - this performs beautifully, but I always feel like I have to work hard and push fast. I'm not a heavy guy, 5'10 and about 160-165 lbs. In an ideal world, I would want all that without sacrificing the superb carving turns and edge hold that this ski allows. I know no ski can do everything, but let's say I would want something that compromises minimally if needed on the hard pack performance to allow some playfulness and versatility.
Does that ski exist? I have received varied advice from shops, coaches, and did my own online research. Some models that came up are the Salomon XDR 88, Head V Shape V10, Head Kore 93, Rossignol Exp 88 HD Ti. Any thoughts or suggestions would be much appreciated. I should say that I am looking to stay with a one ski quiver approach, which is why I am looking at this type of "all mountain front" or "frontside with versatility" model.
Thank you.
Does that ski exist? I have received varied advice from shops, coaches, and did my own online research. Some models that came up are the Salomon XDR 88, Head V Shape V10, Head Kore 93, Rossignol Exp 88 HD Ti. Any thoughts or suggestions would be much appreciated. I should say that I am looking to stay with a one ski quiver approach, which is why I am looking at this type of "all mountain front" or "frontside with versatility" model.
Thank you.