I am finally (after 17 years) in the market for new skis, trying to take
advantage of the sales. Unfortunately, due to an injury I am unable to demo
any skis at all, so I am trying to buy on recommendations alone.

I am a 44 year old woman, somewhere between intermediate-advanced. I mostly
ski groomed trails, no trees, no bumps. I typically ski the Northeast
(lately with my kids), but hope to get out west occassionally during the
lifetime of these skis. I enjoy steep slopes, and as the kids get older
maybe can do that more often.

The salesperson at the local ski shop recommends K2 (True Luv or One Luv),
Volkl (7 24 Gamma), Salomon Street Tracer, or Elan Whistler. Don't know the
list price, but the actual price is all in the $450 - 550 range (minus 30%),
and includes a binding.

Anyone care to offer an opinion, or am I crazy to buy a ski without actually
skiing on it. I suspect there will be initial shock just skiing on a shaped
ski made in this century, that I am not sure I could even make a decision
anyway.

Thanks!