Boston store/salesperson recommendation

Don't go to a store first. Find out when you can get to the hills
during demo days. Have her demo a bunch of different skis and lengths.
Go to the store knowing what you want. Better yet, checkout ebay and
get a pair that was demoed last year and save yourself $500.

wrote:

My 16 year old is full grown, and (sadly for me)
is now more fond of downhill skiing than cross
country.

I want to buy her skis.

I know almost nothing about down hill skis, and
would like to know a good store and salesperson to
guide us through the purchase, and ensure good fit
for skis, boots and bindings.

Wilderness House on Comm Ave used to have a good selection. However, I
have to say that my impression of them has always been that they treat
_knowledgeable_ buyers well. I'm not so sure how well they treat people
who are more in need of start-to-finish purchasing guidance. That's not
to say that I've heard any horror stories, but unfortunately, I think
the reality of most retail in this country is that ethical and competent
sales help is not all that common, even in major purchases. And, apart
from Wilderness House, I don't know any other stores in Boston that I
would even begin to suggest. Out of town, however, there are a couple
more suggestions I could make. My personal favorite shop in
Massachusetts is Competitive Edge Ski and Bike in Holyoke. They cater
to racers but also carry all-round gear, they're extremely competent,
and they're honest. You could walk into the place and throw yourself on
their mercy, and they would not take you for a ride. Also, and this is
only a speck of a data point, but I got a good vibe from the fella in
the shop at Nashoba Valley ski area. It's actually a Ski Market,
believe it or not, and I don't even remember if they sell skis -- I was
passing by and needed some gizmo -- but they might be able to direct you
to a good shop closer to Boston. I _don't_ think I'd recommend the
Boston Ski Market, no indeed I would not.

--
Mary Malmros
Some days you're the windshield, other days you're the bug.