What skis are you looking at? Armadas? The size of the ski really has to do with what your riding ability is, and the ski itself. I'm like 6'2" and I ride a 177. I'd say go with the longer, unless you have things to worry about like swing weight. If you do get the 176's, I would worry about them being a little too long. That may be a good size for an experienced newschooler on ns, but 2 inches over your head might be a little to much to handle. Center mounting it will make it feel shorter, and it will perform really well in the park with some minor adjustments in your style, but I've heard mixed feelings about centermounting outside of the park. I think coming from a 153 and going to a 176 may be too big of a leap. 176 may be good, but make sure you don't get too burly of a ski.