Replying to Anthem Length

I have been hitting the park hard and heavy this year.  I currently have a pair of 181 08 Pipe Cleaners, which I got on sale last year.  They are way above my skill level in the park.  To me they handle like a race ski on crack.  Super fun as a cruiser, but eating me alive in the park because they are extremely unforgiving. 

I am 5'11" 240lbs (typical old athlete college bum with beer belly syndrome).  I am looking to but a pair of 171 Anthems, but I am hesitating because I do not know if the 171 will be too soft to handle my size.  I personally have not gotten to handle the ski, so I have no idea on the flex.  So the question is!!........  Go with the 171 for a more playful novice ski or go with the 178 because of my size?