Message #1766

[filojib]

Right on all counts.  Note that curved tips and tails, typical on "big mountain" and "powder" skis will make the the stix ski "shorter" than a conventionally designed ski of the same "length".  Thus, "design matters."  The real question is, as always, "compared to what?"  It's very difficult to compare skis, except in the store where you can actually put them up bottom to bottom and look at them.  I suggest doing this for fun - assuming you like looking at skis in stores.  Who doesn't?  Of course, demoing is going to make a difference, but that's hard to do unless you live near a great reasort.  Happy skiing!