Update: Skied my new Enforcer 100s (177 cm) last week at A Basin. I picked the wrong ski.
They were fine on groomers (though less zippy and fun than my Rallys) but not so fine on crud and 3D snow. They felt like tanks. Or planks. In old, wind treated, grabby, cut up powder bumps, they were really hard to maneuver. My buddy said I looked great but they were too much work for my 53 year old 140 pound disc-herniated frame. Right footers in the mank were painful and tough to swing. Definitely no fun. The ski drove me, and I did not drive it.
I guess I am reminded that for 3D/off piste conditions I prefer lighter, energetic, maneuverable skis. Not tanks. I made the same mistake 15 or so years ago with a burly iteration of the Mantra but back then I was young and dumb and successfully battled those planks, even enjoyed them. Not interested in that same old battle. Being a former racer and fairly aggressive skier, I sometimes gravitate towards burly stiff skis, but for soft snow this makes no sense at this stage.
Luckily I think my shop will allow a trade without too much financial pain. (Or I'll sell them here.) I think I need something smaller and lighter, say 170 cm long and low-mid 90s wide; turnier and easier to maneuver in crud, less tank-like. Maybe I'm asking for too much, but still hoping this ski will carve respectably on the groomers at decent speed (35-40). Preferably shorter radius with some energy in the tail. These will complement the Head Rally so groomer behavior is not the primary goal.
Based on the shop's selection and lots of reviews, I've made this new list:
1. Nordica Enforcer 93 @ 169 cm
2. Head Kore 93 @ 171 cm
3. Blizzard Rustler 9 @ 172 cm (currently leaning this way)
4. Would consider others but trying to stick to local selection
If anyone can relate to this story and has been on these skis, I'd love to hear about it.
Many thanks.