Snow Blades / Ski Boards

Question
Hello Ron,
I have been skiing on Atomic 120 cm for 4-5 years now. I am planning a trip to CO in March. Will I be able to ski on these skis out west? If not I will pack my 175 cm skis. I ski in upstate NY (Greek Peak) on hard pack and ice. I have been skiing for 26 years. I weight about 175 lbs and I am 5' 9''.

Answer
Hi Mike,

You certainly can ski on your 120's in the west- with these two caveats:

First, as easy and fun as blades are on groomers- they are that much more difficult in wet conditions or powder, exactly what you'll get at March's extremes.

Secondly, you may find that the sheer size of Western resorts make blades    inappropriate. What is cool and fun over 1000 feet of drop may get old fast after 2500. Here in Park City, you'll encounter several runs that stretch over miles, and my experience with blades makes that distance seem daunting.

Your long-term use of these great tools may give you the skills and technique that overcomes what I present as short-comings- but if I were in the same position, I'd be on a pair of 175 cm modern waisted skis.

Enjoy your trip.

Ron