Hi-- Just got a request to buy both Hot boards. If the sale falls through I will repost.
The Hot is longer, narrower and softer than the 149cm. The HOT has a side cut radius that is longer, more GS like turns. The 149cm is very little, although pretty stiff for such a little board, and make very quick turns.
The 149cm would be fine for a beginner. I have sold two others to younger riders, kids, that are just learning to carve. Plus, the board is not that expensive, so you could start with that then move up.
Once your wife feels comfortable, the 172 Oxygen is the board she wants to be riding. This is the perfect female carving board for making some fast turns on groomers, etc. However, I don't let the fact that I am on a race board slow me down. I go down everything on this board-- all be it in moguls it is a bit of a monster.
Sorry-- that was more than you were asking-- 149cm Oxygen would work fine since the Hot is sold.
Stacia