Recreational Slalom Ski Test

Most blanks will not require any drilling, they should have threaded inserts to accept the binding plate screws. Make sure you get bindings that are compatable with the ski. I went with the HO Phantom which I am very happy with.

I would say check out your local pro shop first, most will also offer demos if you wanted to try before you buy. If you go mail order use the links from this site. Also check out Lake Elmo Sports.

Any suggestions on the best places to buy stuff would be appreciated. I did check out waterskis.com the other day. I usually default to Overton's or Bart's.

I've never purchased a blank. Do you have to drill your own holes and does it (or the bindings you purchase) come with a template and/or instructions on where/how to install the bindings?

Quinn- do you think your lake folks will care if we drop the course in there a couple times this summer?

quinner,

Where did you pick up the System 8, and if you don't mine me asking, what did you pay for it?

I'm in the market for a new ski and was leaning toward the System 8, for no good reason.

What's your reason for going with the RTP? Just curious.

I really don't know what to look for in a new ski. I consider myself an aggressive recreational skier. Occasionally run the course when I get access to one, but mainly enjoy cutting hard in open water (river). My previous ski was an O'Brien Rumor Pro 68" that I had for years. Ripped the front boot out last year and finished the season taping the boot to my foot with duct tape!

Joel,

Interesting reviews,

Last 2 years went back to open toe and have been skiing the Vengeance, good ski just not fast enough, great if there is any chop, ski needs to be pushed hard to go fast. The Nitro is supposedly the next generation of this ski.

Surprised to see they rated the Triumph higher than the Nitro, skied my neighbors 06' Triumph last year and it was very much an intermediate ski, the Vengeance performs light years ahead of it, if the Nitro is the next Gen Vengeance I sure am not getting the review grades for those skis?

Picked up a System 8 for this season, spec's call it a heavier version of the Monza, really looking forward to trying it out.

Prior to my Vengeance always skied top end O'Briens with double boots. The Vengeance was friendlier on the deep starts and choppier water but just never saw the same preformance, hence my reason for shelving it.

If you have any interest in skiing the Vengeance or System 8 let me know, both are 69" ski's with XL RFF boot, RTP.