Back for the 2024 season, the Atomic Backland 107 ski is one of the top contenders for best hybrid ski, functioning as both a touring and resort ski. Thanks to its ideal construction, shape and profile, the Backland 107 delivers multipurpose freeride touring performance in a lightweight, sturdy package. It’s all about weight when it comes to uphill efficiency, and Atomic found the sweet spot with this ski. Built with an ultralight poplar and caruba woodcore, the optimal balance of low weight and supreme performance are the end result. Adding in fiberglass and a carbon backbone brings stiffness and a responsive flex, delivering the energy and rebound desired for quickness and maneuverability. At the ideal waist width of 107 mm underfoot plus HRZN tip technology, maximum flotation in soft snow conditions is effortless and a whole lot of fun.

To reach a desirable strength to weight ratio, it all starts with construction. Paying attention to downhill performance, the use of wood, fiberglass and carbon ensured both a lightweight core and a consistent, responsive flex. Using a blend of poplar and caruba wood, you benefit from the weight and density, leading to the overall performance. While some competitor hybrid skis stop there as far as construction, usinga simple wood core and nothing more, this can take away from performance. By using ultra-lightweight carbon backbone stringers running the length of the ski, it acts as a stiffening mechanism, enhancing the responsiveness and flex of the ski. Atomic also utilized fiberglass layers to create dampening qualities for a smooth and stable feel. The light and quick feel of these skis combined with the stable nature make them ideal for both resort and backcountry use.

Shape is just as important as construction when it comes to a hybrid resort/touring ski and Atomic nailed it with the Backland 107. Starting with the width, at 107 mm underfoot, it’s the ideal width for soft snow conditions, guaranteeing maximum flotation. With HRZN tech tips, the beveled shape adds more surface area to the tip, enhancing performance and decreasing tip deflection. Camber underfoot maintains edge grip and stability while the directional shape with minimal tail rocker keeps edge contact for a stronger finish. Lending to its durability, dura cap sidewalls keep the ski sturdy and reliable with the ability to confidently get the ski high on edge. In the 182 cm length, the skis produce a18.5-meter turn radius, allowing the skier to make long arcing turns or smaller, rounder shaped turns.

A lightweight touring ski with a resort feel, the Atomic Backland 107 is the complete package for advanced to expert skiers who don’t want to have to choose between the backcountry and the lifts. With a high-performance ceiling and lightweight, responsive build, this versatile powder ski offers efficiency on the uphill and a smooth, responsive ride on the downhill.