K2 Shane McConkey Tribute Skis 2010 Review provided by Evo - The Tribute edition of the Pontoon skis the same as this year's regular version - but is a great way to say "Thanks Shane!" and support his family. A little bit of extra goodness added to an already great ski...
There's a special place in my heart for this ski. The first time I used them, Pontoons forever changed my view of skiing. I was blown away. And I still am. Don't be afraid to hop on a pair.
They are a total win in powder. But they are not just a "powder ski". Echoing what Bp said - the ski is in its element in any soft snow. Ski them in spring slush, soft wind buff, etc., and you'll be amazed. Pick your turn type and shape. Tip dive, edge catch, etc. become things of the past. Instant turns in trees and chutes are confidence inspiring. Once you get used to Pontoons, even firm groomers are no impediment to getting back to the lift in good form. On soft days, they are a hoot anywhere on the hill.
Other great rockered skis have arrived on the scene. I love some of them too. But the Pontoon is still among the cream of the crop and is on my short list for good snow days.
Pick your length based on intended use. All three sizes have a ton of "float". If you ski tight trees, chutes, etc., tend a bit shorter. For wide open places, tend longer. I've used both the 179 and 189 over the past four seasons. I currently use 179s mounted +1 because I like the extra little agility margin for messing about in tighter places. But I'd be happy to ski the 189s as well.
The pintail design makes Pontoons relatively unidirectional. If you want to ski switch and do jibby things in powder, consider skis of the Hell Bent, EP Pro, etc. genre.
About me: Mid-fifties. 6'1" and a bit over 200 pounds. Super enthusiastic - but not what you'd call an expert technical skier. I manage to play with a lot of different skis under a variety of conditions. I'm a big fan of fresh soft maritime snow.
