SwindleUpdate: so I'm thinking deathwish 106, 4frnt col or on3p Kartel. What do people think would be the best bet out of the three
Out of those, I'd echo Hot Pocket's recommendation to go with the regular Deathwish 112 over the tour version. And coming from the Kendo, you might find that the Kartel 108 takes some getting used to due to its more forward mount point (around -4.25 cm from center). The Kartel is an awesome ski if you ski with a centered stance (i.e., you don't focus a ton on driving the front / shovels of your skis), but if you're skiing (and liking) the Kendo, I'd recommend going with something with a mount point closer to what you're used to. The Deathwish (-5 cm) and Col (-8 cm) should feel a bit more intuitive, while still being more playful than the Kendo. I'd personally recommend the Deathwish, but I haven't skied the Col and can't weigh in on that ski.
I'd also toss these skis into the mix:
- Nordica Enforcer 110 - similar damp feel to Kendo, but more playful and IMO more versatile than the Kendo for a place like CO.
- J Skis Metal - also has metal (like the Kendo) but much more playful rocker profile, mount point, shape, and flex pattern. Though you might overpower the 186 at your height / weight