It's quite a feeling. After that, there was no getting off them. I felt curious and compelled to try them out in all kinds of backcountry situations and snow conditions. The Sierras of California in May were the perfect test ground. The shaped skis float in variable snow like magic carpets.
Narrow skis tend to sink deeply in soft snow.
One ski may sink or dive more than another during lead changes or changes in snow depth. There is a corresponding movement around the world as instructors, manufacturers, ski outfitters, and recreational skiers experiment with shorter skis. The shaped skis have more surface area than a skinny ski of the same length, so they can be skied in shorter lengths without losing stability. Shorter skis are also much easier to carry on your back, for those steep approach routes. Once on your feet, they are easier to maneuver in the trees, in narrow chutes, and on the steeps where a good platform for each turn is crucial.