Finding that perfect ski

Remember when there were just a few ski companies and the dimensions and types of skis numbered just a handful?  There is so much available now.  Different lengths, widths, flex, materials, camber/no camber, rocker/early rise.  Where do you even start.  I think you need to determine your own ability and goals first.  That will give you a lot of answers right away in terms of ski size.  Something to consider along with that is what mountain you are most often skiing.  Tahoe offers lots of options so skiing Northstar is a completely different option from say Squaw Valley.  In general you need a much more aggressive ski for Squaw.  It is steeper with much more of a big mountain feel.  Northstar has some great areas to go fast but is not nearly as demanding when at those speeds.  But this has only gotten you as far as sizing and perhaps the flex of the ski.  Technology today allows for rockered options that can make the skiing experience completely different.  Early rise seems to give the best edge control for a rockered ski.  It allows the most edge contact on turns while still offering float in the soft stuff.  But even rockers are different depending on their stiffness.  The questions just keep coming, so the best option is to demo some skis.  Hit up your local ski shop for expert advice and great equipment to try out.  For those in the Tahoe area, stop in at Elite Feet either at Northstar or Squaw Creek.  Bob and Christian know exactly what they are talking about for all the area mountains and can get you in the perfect setup to make your days in the Sierras an amazing experience.