Help w/ Board Size?

I am trying to figure out what size board I should get. I am 175lbs and 5'10". This will be my first board and it will probably stay on groomed trails its whole life. I am a beginner snowbaorder at 30 years of age who will be trying to keep up with my 6 year old as long as he can.

I was thinking 156 to 158. Do you think that 156 would be too small? Or, would I be better off with the smaller board?

Also, the 3 boards that I have narrowed it down to are:

Salomon Pulse 156 @ $125
Option Logic 157 @ $140
Palmer P-Line 158 @ $150

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

[fostpaint]

My best advice is check the weight recommendations from each manufacturer (though I haven't found them for Option yet). Being a beginner in much the same boat, but having done tons of research, I've found that the weight recommendations for specific length boards varies greatly depending on the manufacturer and the intended use/style of the board. I've heard that you can swing outside the recommendation weight ranges by 10 or 20 lbs, but know that it will affect the board's performance (going with a board meant for someone lighter than you will mean it will be a little more flexy and "buttery" Going with one meant for someone heavier will make the board stiffer and more stable)

All that said, I think you're in the right "ballpark" for board sizes. I'll defer to someone with a little more experience to comment on the boards themselves.

[schmitty34]

Agree with the guy above. Look for guidance for the specific board first. However, based on your size and type of riding...my guess is you should be more in the 158 range...maybe even longer.