Mid-intermediate lady looking to upgrade

Posted: 07 March 2011 01:34 AM

Hi!  I need a little advice on buying a new board.  Spring season is starting here in Oregon and I’d like to buy a model from this year (2011).

I’m: 5’9, 155 lbs, mid-intermediate skill level but advancing quickly. I currently ride a 149 Lamar Storm (I know) with Burton P1.1 bindings (M) and size 10 Kemper boots.

A board that has it all and will stick with me as I get better for a few seasons: freestyle/all-mountain, can handle the park and help me advance in skill level and not reverse camber as I’ve never ridden one so I don’t know if I’d like it, and something longer than my 149 but shorter than the 156 Gnu powder stick I have my eye on for NEXT season.  Not really sure about the rocker thing.

I can handle most advanced terrain, I’m learning to jump, I don’t go crazy fast, occasionally switch (I’d like a twin or directional twin) but I’m not a really aggressive rider I just like to kick it.

I want to: learn how to land a jump better, feel more stable at high speeds, have a high level of control of my board in the trees (it’s why I stick to shorter boards)

I’d really appreciate some comments on the few boards I’ve been thinking of? And if anyone knows of some truly epic boots feel free to comment.

Salomon Lilly or Radiant (worried the Lily is too park and the Radiant won’t be as good for me in another year)

Arbor Eden (always loved Arbor boards)

Never Summer Infinity (not sure if I can justify the cost)

Amplid Mescalina (if I could find it)

Bataleon Violenza (it sounds cool but I know nothing of them)