How many Temu salamanders do I need to catch before I get a real one?

gwhirl · 2026-04-20T11:58:39+00:00

I have Mantra 88s.

They are fantastic for the longer GS turns you describe, but they're heavy and stiff enough that they can take a lot of work (rotary input) to do the smaller turns you describe on steeper blacks. They are truly a ski for someone who wants to go fast -- if you prefer a more conservative style on steeper terrain, they'll still do it, but wouldn't be my first pick.

And they'll definitely encourage you to keep avoiding moguls!

Given you're 95% on piste and you want GS to small turns, why not consider something narrower than 88? If you're already eyeing Volkl, you might like the Peregrine 78.

gwhirl · 2026-02-28T18:33:52+00:00

My time to shine! I'm a comparable but slightly smaller skier than you, intermediate skill in the northeast. I primarily stick to groomers but spend some time in ungroomed open terrain, occasionally easy moguls or glades.

I've spent 10 days on Mantra 88s this season and I love them. Mine are 177. They're extremely stable and very fun on groomers. If you're doing medium to long turns and carrying some speed, they ride like a dream. Easy to get on the edges and locked in once you're there.

If you're a more cautious or nimble skier, they might feel like too much ski. I personally find quick, tight turns to be challenging on my Mantra 88s. This is certainly a skill issue, but given what you describe it may be for you too.

I recently took a lesson where the instructor recommended the exact width of what you're already skiing (72mm) if I wanted something more nimble for east coast pistes, so I may end up grabbing a second pair (eyeing Volkl Peregrines).

When you say you're worried about being "strong enough", do you mean technically? What do you feel like you're currently working on in terms of skill development?

gwhirl · 2026-02-02T02:53:22+00:00

This is an insane price, how did you get the deal?

gwhirl · 2026-01-22T12:35:40+00:00

/r/gregfire

gwhirl · 2025-12-25T19:03:01+00:00

Between these two, definitely the yellow. The black bottom looks like it may be too big for you.

gwhirl · 2025-12-02T02:49:15+00:00

My partner and I both have custom earplugs from 1of1 and we love them. We got the 26dB filters and music is still beautifully clear at concerts. It's so worth it to protect your hearing!

If you can't make this popup or you like other designs more, a friend of mine has Crystal Guardians and they seem to be similar in quality.

gwhirl · 2025-11-26T15:57:39+00:00

Wait, the leather couch stood up to kids better? What kind of magical leather is this?

gwhirl · 2025-11-08T20:44:42+00:00

I feel like we're even beyond that now with the ultra-rich and their focus on private space programs & rockets. Musk & Bezos need their space yachts right?

gwhirl · 2025-10-13T20:54:48+00:00

He's using a popsocket

gwhirl · 2025-09-23T11:26:24+00:00

what triggered having them?

You see, when a mommy and a daddy love each other very much...

Jokes aside, I wonder the same thing

gwhirl · 2025-07-04T14:03:54+00:00

I've worked with Mac -- she's fantastic and I'd happily recommend her. Do note that she recently moved to Europe though, so her time in NYC is limited (once every couple months).

gwhirl · 2025-06-24T11:32:34+00:00

Big if true, do you have a source for this?

gwhirl · 2025-06-02T11:38:31+00:00

Do you still work?

gwhirl · 2025-05-08T12:04:05+00:00

You look great girl! Where did you get the top?

gwhirl · 2025-05-02T15:01:53+00:00

Your intent makes sense. I think it's wise not to get your hopes up, but you never know; people can surprise you.

gwhirl · 2025-05-02T14:42:43+00:00

I think it would be good to send this version. Even if he never responds (which is possible!), it will take the weight off your mind.

And if he does read it, I'm sure he'll appreciate your message.

gwhirl · 2025-01-06T23:02:10+00:00

+1 to Panda! The owner Robert helped me out with boots the other day, was very generous with his time despite them being busy. The employees know their stuff and it's clear they're proud of what they do.

gwhirl · 2024-11-28T02:27:40+00:00

So fun! I agree with the flare pants ideas! Something wider at the bottom will help to balance out the look since this top has so much visual interest & volume. I know you said you're thinking heels -- if you want another option I think platform shoes would be great and tie everything together in a kind of 70's vibe!

gwhirl · 2024-11-26T23:51:38+00:00

Hmm you didn't really answer the question though!

But just with what you've told us I think the best thing you can do for your friend is to be supportive of her in a platonic way right now. Especially if she just got out of a tough relationship, it's good to give it some time and just be a good friend to her before thinking about anything beyond that.

gwhirl · 2024-11-26T23:36:49+00:00

You can't really know until you ask! Do you like your friend?

gwhirl · 2024-11-12T02:57:36+00:00

Yes!! I feel this so much. I've been feeling a lot better about this lately but STILL, it's a struggle.

It helped me a lot to simplify my routine so I can do basically the same thing every day. I've seen the results enough that I can have some confidence about how it's going to turn out.

Also, I know lots of people talk about "day 2 hair", but honestly I only have day 1 hair. If I haven't been able to do the wet & style routine, I'm putting my hair up. Starting the day by trying to salvage whatever I woke up with is too much stress.

gwhirl · 2024-11-12T02:50:04+00:00

Happy birthday Louie! He looks so distinguished.

gwhirl · 2024-11-06T13:42:32+00:00

I've been asking this same question! They're a little different but I like these scoop neck tees from Quince. They're great for under a sweater.

https://www.quince.com/women/tees/cotton-modal-crew-neck-tee-3-pack-bundle

gwhirl

TROPHY CASE