I've always tried to find "cowhorn" okra, as it was called when I was growing up. There may be newer varieties now that do better. A friend recently told me of a variety that he likes better... makes a longer pod that remains tender better than others. Don't remember the name but he promised to get me some seed. Maybe others can give us pointers?
Whatever you choose don't plant too early. Okra like cotton requires warm temps to sprout and grow.