Congrats and hang in there Kev.

Backcountry XC skis like the wider Asnes ones they sell at Neptune Mountaineering in Boulder give better flotation than snowshoes. However 'shoes are great for the steeps and for heavily wooded areas - plus there's not the pesky learning curve required by skis.

And, yes, ya need a bit of settled snow to help keep them afloat. BUT... 30" 'shoes like you got are what I own and recommend. Just bought a pair of 30" MSRs at the Boulder REI lst week (pricey, AKK!). 36" is a bit of overkill and less than 30" is usually not enough flotation.

Go up in the Flatirons trails near Chautauqua where there is more snow and try 'em. You'll soon get to like them. And use hiking poles with snow baskets. Makes it much easier.

Eric