they are ment for beginner to intermediate, not any higher, they weren't ment to ski backwards even if you turn up the tail, they  flex as much as rubber, so if you do ever get them don't blame it on Salomon if they suck, because chances are they're goign to break in less than 1 season. I almost did the same 2 years ago and I was told the same thing here, but I suppose if your short on cash and you wnat to get Salomons that bad more power too you....