Dear PMTS skiers
Can anyone help? Diana wrote an interesting article suggesting the SS I speed as a possible ski for masters racing. I’ve read lots of PMTS posts on length section but can’t find the answer to my question.
I’m about to buy a pair of 2019 - ss i speed skis in 170 cm or 177cm as my primary ski for practicing PMTS (for masters racing) and also maybe use them as my ski for my once a year go at GS masters racing. I had the original supershapes and found them really fun but a bit too short at 12m radius and softer than I prefer.
I’ve actually quite enjoyed the stiffer Fischer World Cup RC. 175cm - 16m radius (about 2012 model) and presently ski all mountain (includiing reasonably happy in the moguls ) as well as the fact that I originally purchased it for masters racing and practice. The problem though is when practicing to be working on (my best go at) racing turns, I don’t get enough turns in per each bit of piste so a smaller radius makes sense for lots of reasons.
Is there an obvious reason to go 170 or 178 ? I don’t have a feel for 14m vs 14.9 metre radius. If the 170cm is really a better choice overall but not race usefu, I could still use the old Fischers for a bit longer just for the masters (especially since there is now a super G).
About my skiing ability.
I’m 61, very fit for my age since I ride a stand up paddle board in the surf through the year (so my fore-aft balance is considerably improved and I’m quite strong squatting). I’m not a great racer but most often get a silver medal on the Nastar course (very occassionally a gold or a bronze) and ski about 10 days a year. I’m 5’11 (178 cm) and 170lbs (77kg). Skiing in a (2017) Lange RS wide 130 flex boot.
Any advice appreciated.