phat i was a long ski fanatic,until 6 years ago the only skis i owned were 210 to 240 range i vowed i would never ski on anything if it did not start with a 2 then i demo'd some short ones (180) at the ski hill what a mistake i can not describe the differences it made skiing ,up and down way easier , better in tight places, easier to pack, better flotation. lighter, the list goes on it gives you everything you want and leaves you less tired at days end. the prices have come way down and the swap meets are full of 180 cm ski's because most people now regard these as to long. being used to 210's and going down to a shorter ski of this newfangled syle will really impress you . you may even ski with friends again and show them some tricks.