Atomic Backland 107

Pros:

It should come as no surprise that Atomic’s award-winning Backland 107 is our top pick for backcountry skiers. If you keep your ear to the ground in the ski world, you’ve undoubtedly heard the stampede of uphill-lovin’ powderhounds clamoring for the Backlands. 

After several days spent pushing the Backland 107s high in the Colorado alpine, our backcountry ski tester was head over heels for this lightweight touring ski. Out of the gate, he was blown away by the weight—despite the powder-friendly width, the 107s are light enough to be a dedicated touring ski. And despite the lightweight construction (owed to the featherweight wood core and carbon build), our tester reported that the ski still charges through softer variable conditions. 

Given the Backland’s proven versatility, you have two options: pair with a minimalist tech binding for a dedicated pow-slaying backcountry setup, or step up to a Shift binding [LINK] for a duo that’s ready for everything from lift-accessed laps to human-powered epics. 

When our tester analyzed the Backland’s camber profile, he approved of the flat tail with subtle rocker: this ingenious design increases contact with the snow (key for staying glued to steeper skin tracks) but still allows for a quick release out of turns. What’s more, the HRZN Tech Tips aren’t merely a marketing gimmick: these slim tips both improve float in deep snow while maintaining a skinnier profile.

Lastly, given the performance of these skis, we’re stoked on the price. Between the affordable price and the unbelievable performance, expect to see more and more backcountry skiers making their way towards the Backlands over the coming years. 

Cons: 

Gripes were few and far between with the Backlands. However, our backcountry ski tester noted that he would love to see a notch in the tails for skin retention. Furthermore, he did note that the Backlands may be overwhelmed in firm chop due to the lightweight build. 

Tester Quote: “I paired these with the lightweight G3 Zed bindings resulting in an incredibly lightweight pow-slaying backcountry setup. I found myself with the energy to do one or even two more laps than I would have with a heavier pair of skis.”

Bottom Line: Over the last few years, we’ve watched the Backlands lineup evolve—and we’re now looking at Atomic's best work yet.