Best Backcountry (Touring) Skis of 2026

Unlike their lift-assisted alpine cousins, backcountry skis have two jobs: getting you uphill efficiently while retaining enough power to make the downhill worth the effort (and fun). The good news is that material and construction technologies are growing rapidly with the recent boom in the sport’s popularity, and many of today’s alpine touring skis are impressively polished and a treat to drive. Below, we break down our top backcountry skis for the season, which range from lightweight models for long tours and mountaineering to hybrid skis that can pull double duty on the skin track and at the resort. At the top of our list is the Blizzard Zero G 105 for its outstanding touring capabilities coupled with its top-notch downhill performance. And to complete your setup, we've also written about the best backcountry ski boots and best backcountry ski bindings. For more background information, see our buying advice, comparison table, and info on our testing process below the picks. 

Editor's note: We updated this guide on March 3, 2026, to add the Movement Alp Tracks 96 and the Atomic Backland 108 W to our list and to talk about a few skis we’ve reviewed that didn’t quite make the cut in a new section called “tested and dismissed.” 
 

Our Team's Backcountry Ski Picks

• Best Overall Backcountry Ski: Blizzard Zero G 105
• Best High-End Backcountry Ski: DPS Skis Pagoda Tour CFL 105
• Best for Ski Mountaineering: Black Crows Camox Freebird
• Best Backcountry Ski for Powder: Moment Wildcat Tour
• Best Crossover Backcountry/Resort Ski: Icelantic Natural 101
• Our Other Favorite Backcountry Skis

Best Overall Backcountry Ski

1. Blizzard Zero G 105 ($950)

Dimensions: 133-105-119mm (180cm)
Weight per pair: 3080g
Widths: 80, 88, 96, 105mm
What we like: A versatile touring setup that’s efficient on the uphill and fun on the descent.
What we don’t: Not the best ski for serious, big-mountain objectives. 

Blizzard’s Zero G collection has legions of fans, and the latest model is about as well-rounded as it gets. Tipping the scales at under 7 pounds for the pair (the 164 and 172cm lengths check in closer to 6 lb.), the ski is light and easy to maneuver while climbing, but really comes to life when you point it downhill. With a multi-layer carbon build that was updated a few seasons back to improve edge grip, it’s sturdy enough for variable conditions and decently high speeds, yet there’s a surprising amount of forgiveness that makes it a reliable partner in unfamiliar terrain. Further, the Blizzard’s 105-millimeter width hits the sweet spot for season-long use on all but the deepest days.

Who is the Zero G 105 best for? Anyone from newbies to dedicated backcountry enthusiasts should find a lot to like about the construction. That said, it still isn’t as burly on the descent as the options from Black Crows and DPS. In addition, the ski’s wide, 23-meter turn radius (for the 180cm length) makes it a little trickier to manage in tight spots, though this certainly contributes to its trustworthy, planted feel. In the end, there are more capable descenders, but the Zero G’s combination of low weight and confidence-inspiring performance makes it our top backcountry ski for a reason.
See the Blizzard Zero G 105
 

Best High-End Backcountry Ski

2. DPS Skis Pagoda Tour CFL 105 ($1,695)

Dimensions: 134-105-118mm (179cm)
Weight per pair: 3238g
Widths: 90, 94, 100, 105, 112mm
What we like: Top-end craftsmanship and standout performance with few compromises.
What we don’t: Too pricey for casual backcountry skiers.

The backcountry ski market has exploded in recent years with a seemingly endless array of options, but DPS Skis remains one of the most venerable manufacturers on the market. Their beautifully crafted and well-rounded Carbon Pagoda Tour CFL 105 combines the brand’s strongest traits: the ski is decently lightweight for climbing at around 7 pounds per pair, has a great shape for smooth downhill performance, and boasts a premium construction that’s built to last. The newest CFL designation refers to the carbon flax laminate just under the topsheet: the flax helps reduce chatter on hard snow, while the carbon helps maximize stability and durability. The Pagoda is still happiest in soft snow (who isn't?), but the more confidence-inspiring build gives it fantastic versatility even in the 106-millimeter width (three narrower Carbon Pagoda Tour options—90, 94, and 100mm—are also available).

The Pagoda Tour’s hefty price might make it a quiver of one by necessity, but this is a case where we think the performance, versatility, and build quality justify the steep fee. The design is absolutely packed with high-end materials, including a layer of paulowinia sandwiched between the carbon and flax laminates, making it one of the most uncompromising designs out there. With a shape similar to the all-mountain Kaizen 105 (a reduced rocker profile, mild taper, and centered stance), the Pagoda provides a smooth and agile ride. All told, it's high-level stuff that should put a smile on DPS loyalists and newcomers alike.
See the DPS Pagoda Tour CFL 105

Best for Ski Mountaineering

3. Black Crows Camox Freebird ($949)

Dimensions: 1135-95-113mm
Weight per pair: 1300g (157cm length)
Width: 95mm
What we like: Best in class balance of lightweight and downhill performance; durable.
What we don’t: Not the lightest option for width; keeps you on your toes in variable snow.

Chamonix-based Black Crows is an independent free-ski brand that was founded by two professional skiers to "collide beauty and efficiency into skis." We put the Camox Freebird through its paces in extreme environments, and it really meets the company's mission. After close to four months in Patagonia, the Camox Freebird proved its balance of downhill performance, durability, and lightweight. At 95mm, the ski pivoted quickly underfoot in tight terrain, but still held its own in powder, busting through crud better than most other similarly sized skis. The effective edge gripped quite well on steep, icy terrain, while the ski's shape led to beautiful flow, holding speed on long corn laps. 

If we had to pick one ski for a more continental or intermountain snow climate, this would be it. While we can rave about the Camox, it's not because it's the best at any one thing. It's a bit heavier than other skis of a similar width, is a little softer than you'd expect, and can still be quite a bit catchy in breakable crust if you don't stay on your toes. That said, we awarded this ski for its ability to blend downhill performance, uphill capability, weight, and extreme durability. Throughout four months (and five years for an older model of these same skis) of battering from hitch-hiking in truck beds with farm supplies, being secured to packs while scraping up tight runnels, and alpine climbing, this ski is almost no worse for wear. If you're looking for a trustworthy companion for long missions, these are your ticket. 
Read more: Black Crows Camox Freebird review
See the Black Crows Camox Freebird
 

Best Backcountry Ski for Powder

4. Moment Wildcat Tour 118 ($899)

Dimensions: 141-116-131mm (179cm)
Weight per pair: 3402g
Widths: 108, 118mm
What we like: They’re a blast in powder.
What we don’t: Not as fun in other conditions.

Moment’s Wildcat Tour is the lightened and tour-afied version of one of our all-time favorite powder skis of years past: the Bibby Pro. At 118 millimeters wide and with a rockered profile and early-rise tip and tail, the Wildcat Tour is unapologetic about its powder-loving ways. It’s an effortless performer that has proven to be surprisingly adept at cutting through trees or flowing through narrow shoots. Moreover, the lighter Wildcat Tour adds a flickable element to the fun, playful feel of the Bibby Pro.

With such a strong emphasis on powder, the Wildcat Tour 118 probably shouldn’t be the only ski at your disposal. Even at a reasonable 7 pounds 12 ounces (179cm length), the wide footprint means the ski isn’t as suitable as others for long missions (though Wildcat does offer the Tour in a slightly narrower, 108mm variation for the same price). Further, the design is totally out of place on firm snow and ice, so be sure to have confidence in the forecast and conditions before heading out the door. Get it right, though, and you’re almost guaranteed to have a big smile on your face.
See the Moment Wildcat Tour 118
 

Best Crossover Backcountry/Resort Ski

5. Icelantic Natural 101 ($900)

Dimensions: 132-101-117mm (178cm)
Weigh per pair: 3379g
Width: 101mm
What we like: Skis powder, bumps, and steeps well.
What we don’t: Doesn’t grip as solidly as other skis in icy conditions.

Icelantic has been on a nice run of late, and their Natural 101 (and women’s Mystic 97) earn our top spot as a 50/50 touring and resort ski. Its versatility is what makes it special: The Natural floats extremely well for its width, is pretty easy to manage in tight and steep spaces, and soaks up bumps very nicely. It also has wide appeal across ability levels, with a manageable flex that won’t overwhelm an intermediate skier but has enough horsepower to make a statement on big-mountain lines. With a three-year warranty and a competitive price, the Natural 101 adds up to a very impressive and versatile design.

This ski is built to handle everything from mid-season blower pow to spring corn, but it does struggle a bit in icy conditions. Additionally, while not excessively heavy at around 7.5 pounds for the pair, there are plenty of lighter competitors on the market. The upside to the Icelantic’s solid build—and arguably the brand’s strongest attribute along with its warranty—is that the Natural should hold up well to extended use (a big plus for high-mileage and/or downhill riders). This combination of proven downhill performance and longevity is enough for the Natural to get the nod as our top crossover backcountry/resort ski.
See the Icelantic Natural 101  See the Women's Icelantic Mystic 97

Our Other Favorite Backcountry Skis

A More Affordable SkiMo Option

6. Black Diamond Helio Carbon 88 ($825)

Dimensions: 122-88-111mm (179cm)
Weight per pair: 2700g
Widths: 88, 95, 102, 108mm
What we like: Super light and efficient for long days in the backcountry.
What we don’t: Narrow for season-long use.

Black Diamond’s Helio Carbon line reaches as wide as 108 millimeters, but we love the nimble performance and efficiency of their 88-millimeter version. Predictably, the narrow build cuts weight, and at just under 6 pounds (for the 179cm length), it’s an ideal partner for very long treks and ski mountaineering. But what’s most impressive is how confidently the 88 tackles technical terrain. The ski is reasonably stable at speed (though we did experience significant chatter on icy hardpack during a spring tour on Mt. Rainier), and its full-length paulownia core and more pronounced tip and tail rocker outperform expectations off-piste. All told, the Helio Carbon is well equipped for anything from dawn patrol laps at a local hill to extended fast-and-light missions.

If we were to choose a single touring ski, however, BD’s Helio Carbon 88 wouldn’t be it. Even with the revisions to the rocker profile and greater use of wood, the trimmed-down build struggles in deeper conditions. Further, the lightweight front end can get tossed around more than we’d like in variable snow—it’s most comfortable in powder or spring corn. But if weight wins out and you don’t want to lay down for a fully-dedicated skimo design, the Helio Carbon is a great choice.
Read more: Black Diamond Helio Carbon 88 review
See the Black Diamond Helio Carbon 88
 

A Quiver of One

7. Renoun Citadel 107 ($999)

Dimensions: 136-107-124mm (177cm)
Weight per pair: 3270g
Widths: 107, 114mm
What we like: Great option for those who split their time between the backcountry and the resort.
What we don’t: Pricey and heavy; larger width in the front can feel cumbersome in hard or variable snowpack. 

After a season of backcountry and resort skiing in the Sierra, the Renoun Citadel 107 strikes us as a nice option for skiers looking for a one-quiver ski for in- and out-of-bounds use. Versatility is literally in their construction: Their ISPO-winning VibeStop polymer construction softens things up at lower speeds but stiffens and dampens when you're skiing faster. They shine in powdery conditions with a rocker/camber profile and early rise that makes for a fun, surfy ride. At 3270 grams for the pair (177cm length), the Citadels land mid-pack in terms of weight: They're not quite light enough to be a dedicated mountaineering ski, but they boast a chatter-free ride great for groomers and backcountry yo-yo-ing. For optimal versatility, we recommend pairing them with a hybrid binding, such as Salomon's Shift2.

For all its versatility, the Citadel's wide nose (136mm) and narrow tail (124mm) do limit it in a few ways. First, we found the nose cumbersome and clunky on hardpack, making it less fun when the snow firms up. The narrow tail, meanwhile, doesn’t quite have the follow-through we like in a playful ski, and at higher speeds, the stiffness makes them more locked-in than loose and surfy. Our tester felt the VibeStop tech didn't quite live up to the hype and could use a touch more softness in future updates. Lastly, the Citadels are quite expensive. But on the bright side, they’ve proven durable, and if you’re looking to dodge the cost (and hassle) of buying separate resort and backcountry skis, the Citadel 107s might just be worth it.
See the Renoun Citadel 107

Ultralight and More Affordable

8. Dynastar M-Tour 100 F-Team ($750)

Dimensions: 134-100-124mm (178cm)
Weight per pair: 2760g
Widths: 90, 100, 108mm
What we like: Lightweight yet durable, surprisingly well-rounded performance, and cheaper than many options here.
What we don’t: Doesn’t grip on firm snow as well as we’d like.

Whether you plan to stick to a one-ski backcountry quiver or several pairs of sticks, the Dynastar M-Tour 100 F-Team deserves consideration. In regions with moderate snowfall, it’s a versatile choice: With a 100-millimeter waist, all-mountain profile, and a lightweight yet solid build featuring a full sandwich sidewall (which helps with long-term durability), the ski is smooth, predictable, and confidence-inspiring. It’ll reliably cruise through boot-top powder, crud, heavy mush, and every skier’s least favorite: breakable crust. Of course, specialized skis can provide superior float, and heavier skis will blast through junk snow better, but it’ll come at the cost of weight and efficiency. For its weight (just over 6 pounds), the M-Pro 100 performs impressively well. 

If you’re a serious backcountry skier with multiple touring setups—and live in an area where a wider ski has appeal—we recommend the M-Pro 100 as a springtime corn-harvesting tool or ski mountaineering companion. It’s efficient for long days (and multi-day ski traverses) yet reliably damp on the descent if you want to let ‘er rip. As expected, and like others in its class, the M-Pro 100 sacrifices some edge hold in firm, icy conditions, especially once you get onto steeper slopes. That said, the trade-off in saved weight and better-than-expected performance in undesirable snow (because there’s no such thing as bad snow) makes that minor sacrifice pretty easy to overlook.
See the Dynastar M-Tour 100 F-Team
 

Traditional Profile for Camber Enthusiasts 

9. Movement Alp Tracks 96 ($1,300)

Dimensions: 132-96-114 (178cm)
Weight per pair: 2800g
Widths: 84, 90, 96, 102mm
What we like: Light, sidewall construction. 
What we don’t: Pricey, profile not for everyone. 

For camber fans, the Movement Alp Tracks 96 has a profile that delivers a responsive, snappy ski that can rail turns in various conditions. But more than anything, the shape of the ski offers pop and drive when initiating a turn on predictable snow surfaces—these skis are ideal for spring corn snow. They aren’t just outright ski-racing planks; they have early rocker in the tips and a little bit in the tails to help aid float in the powder. Built with a combo of paulownia wood core and carbon fiber, the ski feels and looks well-made. We especially appreciate the sidewall construction, which creates a robust total package and torsional stiffness. 

When we say the Alp Tracks have camber, we mean they have a lot of camber. With the bases held together, there is nearly an inch between the skis. While this is great when the conditions or your skiing style call for it, it can be a lot to handle while performing hop turns or traversing sketchy terrain. Like other ultralight models, the weight can be a blessing and a curse. Yes, they are incredibly light on the ascent, but the trade-off is a lack of burly stability at speeds. They perform okay in the powder, but at 96 millimeters, they’re simply not going to float as well as wider skis. At the end of the day, the Alp Tracks will make predictable turns in spring corn and light fluff with ease and grace, but we’d recommend that anyone other than the camber superfans consider a different model. 
See the Movement Alp Tracks 96
 

A Light and Playful Women’s Backcountry Ski 

10. Atomic Backland 108 W ($975) 

Dimensions: 134-109-123mm (176cm)
Weight per pair: 2620g
Widths: 101, 108mm (and 95, 102, and 109mm for men/unisex)
What we like: Playful in most conditions, incredibly light, great in powder 
What we don’t: Stepcap doesn’t instill confidence in terms of durability.

For those looking for the ultimate balance of playfulness and power in a freeride touring ski, the Atomic Backland 108 W stands out as a top contender. Designed to be a daily driver for winter missions, this ski excels in both downhill performance and uphill efficiency, making it a potential quiver killer. With an absurdly low weight of 2620 grams per pair, you certainly won’t feel like you're trudging or dragging with these skis on those extra-long missions. And with a rocker tip and tail and camber underfoot, we’ve found that this is the ideal profile for both ascending and slashing powder.

Our main point of skepticism with the Backland is the stepcap design rather than sidewalls. Stepcaps definitely reduce weight and material use, but our team has vivid memories of this technology falling apart when it hit the market in the late 90s. We've tested a few iterations of the Backland in the last few years and no problems yet, but time will tell. As mentioned above, ultralight skis tend to trade weight for stability at speed, and the 108 W is no different. If you’re truly going for some hard-charging Freeride World Type-skiing, you may want to consider a burlier model. Gripes aside, several of our testers have fallen in love with the lightweight and playful Atomic Backland series. 
See the Atomic Backland 108 W  See the Atomic Backland 109

Tested and Dismissed Backcountry Skis

In the world of outdoor gear reviews, we often come across products that may not quite stand up to the competition in terms of performance or value, or that just don't stand out in any particular way.

The Faction Agent 3 and the Kastle TX99 are both well-balanced daily drivers, but we consider them to be a little heavy for big spring missions, and definitely too heavy for ski mountaineering.

If you’re looking for a mixed resort and backcountry design, the Völkl Blaze 104 comes in at a great price point, but it falls a bit short in performance on hardpack. We experienced some chatter and tip flap at speed, which makes it hard to turn and stop on the icy stuff.

The Salomon Mtn 96 Carbon offers some well-rounded performance for intermediate and advanced skiers, but it’s a little too narrow for deep days and a little too heavy for ski mountaineering.

If you love fat skis and you have the budget, the DPS Carbon Lotus 124 might be the perfect skis for you, but, generally speaking, this model is much too wide for most skiers and conditions. 

The Voile Hypercharger is exceptionally light and reasonably affordable, but there are even lighter options in our lineup at a more competitive price. 

And finally, the Black Crows Navis Freebird is a great all-around ski, but it is more expensive than other Black Crows in the fleet that we had a better time skiing. 
 

Backcountry Ski Comparison Table

*Editor's note: Dimensions, turn radius, and weight often vary depending on the length of the ski, and we used the length closest to 180cm for the sake of comparison above.

About Our Testing Process

There's a lot to love about backcountry skiing—the unmatched views, untracked snow, and endless fun potential—and many staff members at Switchback Travel can't get enough of it. Our list of powder-ready skis began in 2018 with 18 options hand-picked by former editor-in-chief and lifelong skier John Ellings. Gear tester Alli Hartz began contributing a few years later, tweaking the selection based on her experiences as a ski guide and avalanche professional in Bend, Oregon, and Brooke Maushund also contributed, drawing on her expertise as an avalanche forecaster and educator who spends most of her summers skiing in Patagonia. Snowsports editor Ross Patton began skiing as soon as he could stand up and began his backcountry journey on three-pins on the Wasatch as a kid. Finally, editor Maddie Downie weaves in knowledge and expertise from long volcano tours, sidecountry laps at Mt. Baker, and everything in between. We also draw on insights from our trusted contributors, gear-savvy friends, and the broader backcountry skiing community to ensure only the best designs make our list.

Unlike all-mountain designs, backcountry skis are built with both up- and downhill performance in mind, and we make a point to evaluate each ski's all-around capabilities. Weight plays the biggest role on the skin track, but ultralight skis often aren't the best all-rounders, so we look for designs that effectively balance their priorities and don't make too many sacrifices in any one area. Throughout the season, we put skis to the test in a variety of conditions and over all sorts of terrain, from powdery bowls to icy traverses, gauging their handling and noting any strengths and shortcomings. We’re always keeping an eye on the evolving market, so keep an eye out for new and updated options as we continue to test and review backcountry skis.
 

How to Choose Backcountry Skis

• What Are Backcountry Skis?
• Freeride and Freetouring: What’s the Difference?
• Uphill vs. Downhill Performance
• Ski Waist Width
• Weight
• Ski Profile: Rocker and Camber
• Ski Shape: Sidecut and Turn Radius
• Core Materials
• Sizing
• Skins and Skin Compatibility
• Choosing Backcountry Ski Boots
• Choosing Ski Bindings
• Backcountry Ski Advice for Beginners
   

What Are Backcountry Skis?

For those who want to explore beyond the crowds and lift-served terrain, backcountry skis (also called alpine touring skis) are the ticket. Designed for ascending efficiently and handling variable downhill conditions, there is a wide range of alpine touring ski options for everything from deep powder to springtime corn. But their defining feature—and what differentiates them from inbound skis—is a shared emphasis on trimming weight. This focus can make some of them less powerful, stable, and durable than a pure downhill ski or powder ski, but the trade-off is worth it for covering ground in the backcountry.
 

Freeride and Freetouring Skis: What’s the Difference?

As you’re browsing backcountry skis, you may see terms like “freeride” or “freetour” thrown around by manufacturers and retailers—and sometimes they seem to be used interchangeably to describe backcountry-oriented skis. So, what’s the difference? 

Freeride
Freeride describes open, ungroomed terrain, though it typically refers to extreme terrain—if you think about events like the Freeride World Tour, steep slopes interspersed with cliffs may come to mind. Freeride terrain can also include open bowls and chutes, but it’s not quite synonymous with the term “backcountry,” which broadly encompasses all terrain that is not groomed or controlled for avalanches. As a result, skis designed for freeride use are going to be primarily downhill-focused and built to charge hard and land big drops. Correspondingly, they’re heavier and damper than a dedicated touring design. Depending on your applications, the extra weight can be worth it: If, for example, you plan to tackle big-mountain lines, heli ski, cat ski, or spend the majority of your time on lift-assisted terrain, a freeride ski is a suitable choice. Some examples of relatively lightweight freeride designs include Head’s Kore collection and the standard (non-Tour) version of Elan’s Ripstick. 
 

Freetour
You won’t run into the term “freetour” as often as “freeride,” but some brands, such as Salomon, Atomic, and Moment, have skis that are technically touring skis but whose designs are derived from their freeride models. Atomic, for example, has the Bent series, which was designed by their freeski team for gnarly descents but is a popular touring model. As the name suggests, freetour skis aim to split the difference between freeride and standard touring skis, offering a step-up in downhill performance without a big weight penalty. At a certain point, it’s splitting hairs—and plenty of other factors will come into play as you narrow your search—but understanding these terms can provide a bit of clarity in finding the ideal ski(s) for you.
 

Uphill vs. Downhill Performance

This is perhaps the trickiest factor in selecting a backcountry ski: choosing between saving energy on the uphill and maximizing downhill stability and performance. Logically, choosing a narrow and thin ski to make life easier on the skin track may sacrifice some power, floatation, and control on the descent, so it’s good to start by defining your priorities and your preferred style of touring. Are you looking for short uphills for rowdy freeride descents in powder? Go with a substantial downhiller that’s slightly heavier, like the Moment Wildcat Tour. Or will you be doing long traverses and ski mountaineering? Then put weight above all else with the ultralight Black Diamond Helio Carbon 88 or a similar ski (Dynafit and Ski Trab are two leaders in this category).
 

However, if you’re like most skiers and land somewhere in between—you’re willing to sacrifice a little speed or stability on the descent or give up some control in variable snow—there are plenty of great options that aim to evenly balance weight and performance. And, as backcountry skiing gains widespread popularity, ski manufacturers are responding with better technology and more well-rounded designs that make fewer compromises every year. A few of our favorite all-rounders include DPS’s Pagoda Tour collection, Black Crows’ Freebird line, and Icelantic's Natural.
 

Ski Waist Width

85mm to 100mm
Even for summer ski mountaineering or logging miles of approach in the backcountry, 85 millimeters should be just about the narrowest and lightest backcountry ski you need (any narrower and you’re getting into skimo racing skis). With improved rocker designs in recent years, narrower skis in this width range achieve reasonable float in variable conditions while maintaining snappy edge-to-edge movement. The smaller size and weight also make them ideal for technical mountaineering, as seen in Black Diamond's Helio Carbon skis, which feature waist widths of 88 and 95 millimeters. If you’re a camber fan, the Movement Alp Tracks 96 is light, snappy, and tons of fun in corn and shallow pow. 
 

100mm to 110mm
Skis with a waist width between 100 and 110 millimeters are what we consider to be “quiver killers.” In other words, if you’re going to buy one pair of backcountry skis and live in an area with decent snow, these are it. More and more companies are releasing skis that hover around the 105-millimeter mark, many of which offer impressive versatility both out of bounds and at the resort. Blizzard’s Zero G 105 is one of our favorites in this range. While not specifically designed for backcountry skiing, one nice hybrid option to consider is the Völkl Blaze 104. Skis of this waist width are narrow enough for spring touring but really shine in the winter months when there is potential for deeper conditions.

110mm-120mm+
These skis are made to shred serious powder. In most cases, they are specialized for deep snow with exceptional float. On the flip side, this also means more weight and more ski to manage. However, “fat” alpine touring skis like the Moment Wildcat Tour are incredibly fun on the downhill and will cater to those who live for days of cold smoke. Only buy a backcountry ski of 115mm+ if you plan to ski regularly in deep conditions or Alaska-type lines that require a big, powerful design like the DPS Skis Carbon Lotus 124.
 

Weight

One thing on the mind of most backcountry skiers is the weight of their setup. And as you can see in the comparison chart above, ski weights can vary quite a bit. The lightest skis that we’ve tested are the women’s-specific Atomic Backland 108 W at a ridiculously light 2620g or 5 lb. 12 oz per pair. The unisex skis have a fairly large range from the impressively light Black Diamond Helio Carbon (2700g or 5 lb. 15 oz. per pair) to the burly Icelantic Natural 101 (3379g or 7 lb. 7.2 oz. per pair). All-rounder backcountry models like the Blizzard Zero G 105 (3080g or 6 lb. 12.7oz. per pair) land in between these extremes and are a nice match for those looking for an effective balance between uphill efficiency and downhill performance.
 

Materials and construction are notable factors in a ski's weight. Skis built with carbon fiber will be lighter than their fiberglass counterparts. Further, different types of wood cores yield differences in weight (see the section below on “Core Materials” for more information on this topic). Some manufacturers cut back on the sheer amount of material, eliminating metal edges on parts of the ski that rarely engage the snow. This technique, in addition to honeycomb-like cutouts, reduces swing weight in the ski's tip and tail (found in Salomon skis, for example). 

Weight is also tied directly to a ski’s length and width. Obviously, shorter and narrower skis will have less material and therefore weigh less. But before you go real skinny and short, be sure to factor in the ideal length for your height, weight, and ability level, as well as the ideal waist width for your intended conditions. As we covered in the section on Uphill vs. Downhill Performance above, your preferred style of touring will push you toward a ski that is light, heavy, or somewhere in the middle.
 

Ski Profile: Rocker and Camber

Rocker and camber are design profiles that describe the curvature of a ski. Camber is the traditional profile that makes the ski convex in relation to the snow, with direct contact points spread widely near the tip and tail. Rocker is a more modern technique that resembles the bottom of a boat, with an early rise at the tip and/or tail. Most backcountry skis on the market today have a combination of rocker and camber in their profile, with camber underfoot and rocker in the tip and sometimes the tail.
 

Camber and rocker greatly affect a ski’s overall performance. More camber underfoot helps with edge control in steep terrain and can increase stability at higher speeds. The additional edge provided by a camber profile also improves traction while skinning uphill, especially on firm snow. Rocker in the tip increases float and the ability to power through crud and variable conditions, while a little rocker in the tail can be helpful when navigating technical sections, allowing the ski to ride backwards without difficulty and reducing the risk of catching an edge (it will also help you kick-turn while ascending). However, a heavily rockered ski can limit your contact points and make climbing more of a chore. The most versatile touring skis have some rocker in the tip, camber underfoot, and a flat or slightly rockered tail—such as the Moment Wildcat Tour.
 

Ski Shape: Sidecut and Turn Radius

Let’s keep this one simple: The sidecut profile of a ski affects how large or small a turn the ski will naturally make. Most backcountry skis are loosely based on a traditional sidecut. This means the ski gets narrower from tip to waist, then wider again from waist to tail. The more concave the sidecut is, the shorter the turn radius (listed in meters). Skis with short turn radii of less than 17 meters are often less stable when straight-lining at speed but more agile in technical terrain. On the flip side, a ski with a wide turn radius will be comfortable with smooth, arching turns but may be reluctant to dance quickly in the trees. Personal preferences on skiing style and conditions will lead you in one direction or the other, but the majority of our favorite alpine touring skis have a turn radius of 18 to 22 meters, which is a nice range for achieving stability on speedy straightaways and nimble turning through tight spots.
 

Core Materials

While experimental construction with carbon fiber and other lightweight materials is prevalent among current backcountry skis, wood cores remain the standard due to their unmatched feel and predictable rebound. There has been a shift, however, to lightweight woods like balsa, paulownia, poplar, and ash, from heavier, tougher woods like aspen and maple. To address stiffness and durability issues caused by this change, the rest of the ski is often beefed up with carbon, Titanal, or a similarly light yet strong material. For instance, DPS's Pagoda Tour CFL 105 uses two horizontal layers of wood between layers of carbon flax laminate, resulting in fantastic stiffness for the weight.
 

Sizing

Due to the growing variety in how skis perform, there is no longer a single standard for choosing a ski length. In a pinch, however, here is a general rule of thumb to get you started: Your ski should be within 5-10 centimeters of your height. Less experienced and less aggressive skiers will be happiest with a slightly shorter ski. This decrease in length will make the ski stable at low speeds, more manageable, and nimbler. Strong skiers with tendencies to charge hard and fast will likely want a little more length for high-speed stability and to avoid overpowering their gear. As mentioned above, a shorter ski in the backcountry will have less ascending weight but decreased descending capabilities in the hands of expert-level riders. And a final note on sizing: If a particular ski has a lot of tip rocker, you can go a little longer since there’s less surface area coming into direct contact with the snow.
 

Skins and Skin Compatibility

Climbing skins are what allow backcountry skiers to ascend in snow-covered mountainous terrain. These devices attach to the ski by way of tip and tail clips and skin glue, which adheres temporarily to the ski’s base. The side that is in contact with the snow is similar to animal fur, hence the term “skins.” When attached, the skin keeps you from sliding backwards on the uphill while "gliding" on flat or short downhill sections. 

In terms of sizing, skins are typically sold by length and width. For selecting the correct width, you’ll want to know the widest point on your skis, which is typically at the shovel, then choose a skin that is within a few millimeters of that widest part (for example, if your ski is 122mm wide, choose a 125mm or 120mm skin). You’ll also need to select the length range that matches your skis. Once you have the sizing dialed in, the final step is to trim the skins to fit the ski's sidecut, leaving the metal edge exposed. To keep things simple, some ski companies, like Black Crows and Dynafit, offer pre-cut skins that match their skis, meaning the skin fits your ski's shape perfectly right out of the box. For more information on the topic, as well as a list of our favorite designs, see our article on the best climbing skins.
 

Choosing Backcountry Ski Boots

We’d argue that boots are the most important piece of ski equipment. Similar to skis, touring boots can be categorized by their strengths and weaknesses. Boots with better downhill ability tend to be heavier and stiffer, with less range of motion on the climb. Lighter boots with a greater range of motion in walk mode are often softer and provide less control and power transfer on the descent.

Right off the bat, it’s best to establish whether you want more of a light and minimalist boot, a downhill-oriented boot, or something in the middle. For the greatest level of control, make sure your boots are powerful enough for your ski of choice. A soft boot paired with a stiff, burly ski wastes its performance potential. As a solid all-rounder, we really like the Scarpa Maestrale RS for its balance of weight and power transmission. The ideal touring boot is also warm and very comfortable (provided it’s fitted correctly). We cannot stress this enough: The most important aspect of your boots is fit. An extremely well-equipped boot that’s not fitted correctly for your foot is going to perform worse than a lesser boot that fits extremely well. Take the time to find the right boots before investing in the rest of your setup.
 

Choosing Ski Bindings

With a few exceptions, there are two main categories of backcountry skiing bindings: frame bindings and tech bindings (also known as pin bindings). Essentially, a frame binding is an alpine binding mounted on a rail that releases at the heel for skinning. Frame bindings are heavy, inefficient for climbing, and can be cumbersome. However, they could be a good option for people who mainly ski the resort but occasionally get out of bounds. Marker and Tyrolia offer some great frame bindings if this type of skiing suits you.
 

For more than the occasional ski tour, tech bindings are the way to go. They’re far superior in terms of backcountry efficiency due to their lighter weight and ease of transition between climbing and descending (although they’re not a great choice for frequent inbounds use). And importantly, they’ve only gotten more user-friendly and reliable since Dynafit first developed the original pin binding back in the 80s. While Dynafit continues to be a leader in this realm, others like ATK, Atomic, G3, Ski Trab, and Plum have more recently joined the space, offering modern options that are increasingly lightweight, durable, easy to use, and high-performing. For a deeper dive into this topic, see our article on tech bindings vs. frame bindings.

In recent years, brands that straddle both the alpine and backcountry skiing markets have introduced innovative hybrid tech/alpine bindings that are lighter than frame bindings and beefier than ultralight tech models. By combining a tech toe piece and alpine-style heel, these designs offer a best-of-both-worlds solution for skiers who want to split their time between on- and off-piste riding. Salomon's innovative S/Lab Shift2 was the first of its kind and has exploded in popularity since its launch in 2018 (note: It’s also sold under the Atomic name), allowing your heel to move freely while touring and locking the toe and heel down on the descent (similar to a traditional alpine binding). However, in addition to being much heavier than standard tech designs, these hybrid models have more moving parts that can ice up and malfunction, especially in warmer and wetter snow climates like the Pacific Northwest.
 

Backcountry Ski Advice for Beginners

For resort skiers looking to explore out of bounds and get some exercise, welcome to the family. Backcountry skiing may seem intimidating and expensive on first glance, but it doesn’t have to be. However, there are some important concepts to consider before slapping skins to the bottom of your skis and venturing off into the blissful world of untracked snow. 

First, there is essential equipment we didn’t cover here, including an avalanche transceiver (also known as a beacon), an avalanche probe, and a metal shovel specifically designed for avalanche rescue. Additional gear to consider is a ski backpack with enough capacity for layers, food/water, first aid, and other gear, as well as a dedicated tool pocket for your avalanche probe and shovel (a 20- to 35-liter pack is a good ballpark size for most).
 

Of course, getting the gear is only the beginning—you’ll also need to learn about safely traveling in avalanche terrain. Fortunately, there are enough courses and other resources available these days to provide you with a lifetime of learning. However, before you sign up for an AIARE course (which we highly recommend), we suggest getting familiar with your gear and other backcountry basics, such as layering, mountain weather, and, if possible, avalanche forecasts and the common terminology forecasters use to discuss conditions. If you have an avalanche center in your region, check to see whether they offer free educational clinics, such as a Know Before You Go. Otherwise, you can find similar information online—the Utah Avalanche Center has some great videos, and Backcountry Access has a “101” video series for learning about your avalanche gear. Many resorts also have dedicated beacon “parks”–essentially cordoned-off areas for you to safely practice using your transceiver away from busy ski runs.

Another great way to learn: If you have experienced friends, ask them to go touring with you on safe, low-angle slopes, then bombard them with all the questions you can think of (and bring some delicious snacks as thanks). If you have a local ski guiding service, consider hiring a guide—they’ll be able to find the best snow, manage avalanche risk, and teach you techniques and tricks. You could also check to see if they offer basic one-day intro courses to help you get started. If you don’t have experienced friends who can act as mentors or access to a guide, many resorts offer uphill access (sometimes free; sometimes for a small fee), which can be a good way to get familiar with your gear and uphill travel before heading into consequential terrain. Check their website or call ahead of time to inquire about pricing, timing (many resorts restrict uphill use to off-peak hours), and other rules. Once you feel comfortable with the basics, an avalanche course is the best next step, with AIARE Level 1 being the gold standard among backcountry-goers.
 

A Note of Appreciation for Cottage Ski Brands

The beauty of the backcountry ski industry as it currently stands is that small ski companies still have a legitimate shot at building a loyal fan base. The sport is somewhat young—particularly within the mainstream—and a good number of skiers are willing to pay premium dollars for premium products. As such, there is a cottage industry of sorts within the backcountry ski world, with smaller companies building skis that excel in their local environments (plus, many of the ski brands listed above are somewhat young). A few examples include Prior Manufacturing in Whistler, BC; Wagner Custom Skis in Telluride, Colorado; and Praxis Skis on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe. Many of these brands offer varying degrees of customization, from the topsheet design to the core construction. For the discerning backcountry skier, that can be a pretty enticing option.
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