Ski length vs price

That is a good price. I'm committed to purchase from Marmot MW. Already paid deposit and they have spent a lot of time helping me, so they deserve the business. 

Well what are Marmot MW telling you about ski length, didn't you ask them.????
If they are telling you they are the right size then they are trying to sell skis and not caring for their customer which would surprise me as they have a good reputation.
Ask them to match the EVO price on the 181's or at least get close.
I admire your loyalty but are they trying to gain your loyalty by giving you a fair price and good advise?

Edit to add: They are a sponsor and advertiser on this site so they should care how they deal with TAYers and the publicity that TAY gives them. Copy them on this thread. Here's a link
www.marmotmountain.com/comments.htm

That is a good price. I'm committed to purchase from Marmot MW. Already paid deposit and they have spent a lot of time helping me, so they deserve the business.

then it's a little late in the game to be asking "what size skis do I need?" on a msg board.

As you described yourself as an intermediate skier, it's likely the 174's will serve you just fine for $300 less. Unless you think you need longer.
Besides, K2 skis tend to run on the long side anyway, the 174 is actually closer to ~178-179 if I remember.

Me personally? I like longer skis and would advise you to go 181, if the price was similar.

- kinda like the concept of a Maverick's board vs a short board. "the best ski is the < $

Besides, K2 skis tend to run on the long side anyway, the 174 is actually closer to ~178-179 if I remember.

The K2 MBSL (an otherwise fine ski) was notorious for that -- even put up against other K2 models of the same stated length it was obviously significantly longer.
The Wayback is very similar to the MBSL, although I don't know if the same sizing applies.

They have been good in all respects, and I believe they have given me good advice. Their advice on length was that I'm on the cusp based on my weight, and would recommend longer. *But* they said I can get away with a 174, especially considering the cost savings, along with my intended use.

Given they are a full-service shop with a helpful and knowledgeable staff, I would not expect them to match the lowest Internet retailer prices. I'm willing to pay a reasonable premium for the face to face service, especially since I'm on a steep learning curve when it comes to this gear. They also have great sale prices.

I'm not here to second guess MMW, but rather to solicit the group's insights that might push me towards a longer, albeit more expensive ski.

They have been good in all respects, and I believe they have given me good advice. Their advice on length was that I'm on the cusp based on my weight, and would recommend longer. *But* they said I can get away with a 174, especially considering the cost savings, along with my intended use.

Given they are a full-service shop with a helpful and knowledgeable staff, I would not expect them to match the lowest Internet retailer prices. I'm willing to pay a reasonable premium for the face to face service, especially since I'm on a steep learning curve when it comes to this gear. They also have great sale prices.

I'm not here to second guess MMW, but rather to solicit the group's insights that might push me towards a longer, albeit more expensive ski.

Her's a better option IMHO, from same company and not too more expensive.Plus they have them in 181 and they are a bit fatter which would be my preference and advice. You wont be an intermediate forever right?
www.marmotmountain.com/MMWmain.asp?Optio...ail&StyleID=10007420