This is a specific ski for a specific type of skier. If you charge hard and your style is big mountain, then there isn't a better ski on the planet. Yes you have to work hard but in some ways it is also forgiving because of its race factory construction. If you love skiing groomers or want to hit the moguls then forget it. I am 5ft 7in, 130lb so you dont have to be heavy to use this ski, just a strong skier. I ski an average of 8 months a year as a ski patroller and have never had a ski that has made me feel like a God. This ski really is for the pros.