Head Monster IM78 or IM82 for Australia?

Hi guys

I've just come back from 14 days in Vail and found this site a great resource for learning a bit about the mountain before I arrived . . . so thanks to everyone who has posted trip reports.

I skied on rented Salomon Lords for most of the trip and loved them. Particulary in the powder that fell in late March.

I'm now considering buying some ski's for the first time for the Australian Season. I'm after an all mountain ski that I think in Australian translates to "lots of groomers, off piste once it softens up a bit, slush in the afternoon and if lucky some fresh snow sometimes".

I'd desribe myself as advanced-intermediate (around level 7), fit and medium build.

Based on my research on this site and local ski stores I really like the sound of the Head Monsters. Does anyone have a view as to whether the 78s or 82s would be better for Australian and New Zealand conditions?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

They both overlap the meat of the all-mountain envelope.  Decide which is more important to you -- soft and variable snow capability (82), or hardpack groomer performance (78).  I think that's a good way to choose between these two great skis.  Good luck!

Go the 78 .More suited to our conditions in Aus. Its also more user friendly than the 82 . Iski the 78 both here and O/S .Great ski

Thanks for your thoughts. FYI -I decided to go with the 78s and after some hunting around found a pair and they are on their way! If I am lucky enough to get o/s and into deep powder conditions again I'll demo something fatter when required.

I have 100+ days, Japan & North America, on my im77's which I suspect arn't that different from the 78's. I think they are an awsome do everything ski. I've demoed the 82's in Whistler and liked them but personally think that they are a bit over the top here in Oz. I might look around for something wider for my next trip to Japan but if I don't get a killer deal I won't be too worried because the 77's hold up well in knee deep.

p.s. awsome crud ski for North America.