realskiers

Dan - it would probably be beneficial to you to put that comparison out of your head and approach the R-n-R with an open mind (no preconceived expectations).  IMHO, it's not a ski like the old Monster series and definitely not like the old iM78, but it'll be interesting to hear your comparison once you get some time on the R-n-R.

That is a very good point. They share a similar tail end with the old im Monsters, but they are softer as a whole, no metal--They don't have that unshakeable crud buster feel of the old 88's-and are a little more playful and, well, different.   I'm also interested to hear what you think of them.

On Saturday, we had some of the funkiest conditions I've skied in a long time-heavy wet snow, that had been skied lightly and then refroze.  It was weirdly soft than firm that just unconsolidated weird chunks (by noon some warmth helped soften it.   I switched from my RnR to my Howitzers, and I have to say I appreciated the floatier tip and width more-actually, it made the day one of the best of the season actually.

However, by sunday, the off piste was more skied out (and down) and snow had a more predictable shape to it (and consistency)-I skied the RnR's all day and loved them.  They are my 75% this year (really soft, or really funky I like the Howitzers, and really firm or all groomers I still like my trusty Contact 4x4's).