New Rider Looking for Help

[oldandslow]

Hello,

I am 35 years old and want to get back in to ski boards. I have skiied since I was a kid and did use "snowblades" about 10 years ago out in New Mexico.

I would just be using them on groomed/park conditions. I live in Indiana and probably won't ski many other places except maybe Michigan or Virginia.

I am 5'10" 190 lbs. I would like to find something reasonably priced to start. I don't have any boots.
I would like to think I can do some grinds but as the name implies I am getting up there in age :)

I see "K2 fattys" for sale on Ebay alot as well as these Snow Jam ski boards. are either a good choice for a recreational user. I will only be out once or twice a YEAR. Any advice on where to find a reasonably priced USED set of "skis" or boots would be greatly appreciated.

Would this be a decent starter set? http://cgi.ebay.com/09-90cm-Snow-Jam-Skiboards-Extreme-II-Bindings-/220741486131?pt=Skiing&hash=item336537c633

Also, I wear a size 9.5 or 10 shoe, will any binding work? I don't think I care whether they can come off or not...

And also, hehe... how long should I go? I used the old snowblades back in the day so I am unsure. Like I said, groomed slopes, need some decent speed and some tricks/jumps..

Why are some so long and some so short ie the pic attached.?

http://i772.photobucket.com/albums/yy1/northeaster/IMG_2314.jpg?t=1298480747

Thanks so much everyone!

Jack in Indy

[pinkkid]

Well welcome to the SBOL Forum OldandSlow Jack from Indiana! :cool:

Lots of good questions you have and some good research you've started.

In a nutshell, the shorter the board the more maneuverability you have but you loose speed and getting through variable snow conditions. The Longer the board the more speed you have and you can get through more snow conditions and loose some maneuverability. Having said that though, these fun Skiboards are Fast, Stable & Maneuverable no matter what the size!!!!!
My brother is taller and heavier than you and he flies on this 90cm SnowJams, just like you found on ebay there. Nothing wrong with SnowJams and the Extreme Bindings, perfect for what you wanna do too!

Here is a great guide chart to help you make a decision on what size is best for you based on your height, weight and type of riding you'll do: http://www.skiboardsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7115

IMO, for you I'd say a nice Revel 8 Revolt 105cm SKiboard would suit you fine for many years to come! In the parks, off piste, or on groomed runs or even a little powder, the Revolt is right on target for ya! The Revolt: http://www.skiboardsonline.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=skiboards
several graphics to choose from plus you can find them USED here: http://www.skiboardsonline.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=11

You can release or non release bindings, thats up to you: http://www.skiboardsonline.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=bindings
Any normal style ski boot will work on these bindings. Plus SBOL sells a skiboard boot too at the storefront: http://www.skiboardsonline.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=boots

Keep checking out Gear For Sale threads for some great buys on Skiboards, especially Revel 8 boards.

The skiboards you pictured, on the Left is the Revel 8 KTP 101cm 15.5 width-a perfect board for powder, backcountry, parks and groomers. It's width gives it float and it has inserts for setting the binding back for crazy powder days! At 101cm it's very maneuverable.
On the Right is the Spruce 120cm... such a nice board for anyone! It's a favorite "go to" board for many riders here on the forum who have several skiboards in their quiver! The 120cm is easy to ride and even though it's longer it's still easy to maneuver!

Boots, they gotta be comfy and it takes time to try on boots to figure this one out! But do it. Even if you are only hitting the slopes once a year, you need your boot to fit & feel right. Otherwise you'll have a crappy day. :p

I am positive others will chime in here and give you more advise & tips! Hope this helped!

[slow]

ditto, not much more to say than what pinkkid has presented. :D

[FightingForAir]

You mention riding mostly groomers and park and you have a skiing background...

... it sounds like R8 Revolts... maybe even ALPs/DLPs would be good choices. Don't think you could go wrong with either of those .... specially if you found a good used pair here on the forum.

[jackschmid]

i used to ski on k2 fattys and so did my friend. they scratch REALLY easily..

[cuffball]

Revolts would be a great start. I purchased my first pair this year on the forum. They have been great in all conditions and tons of fun.