Racing backcountry skis
Product 2026
Woman, Man
The Atomic Backland 65 UL is well known as a ski designed for competitive ski mountaineering. Within the strict constraints imposed by racing, it delivers maximum lightness. With just 670 grams per ski in 161 cm, this Atomic Backland 65 UL feels incredibly light on the ascent—almost like having nothing on your feet, especially when paired with ultra-light bindings.
Climbing with the Atomic Backland 65 UL is a real pleasure and makes you want to speed up. It is perfectly suited to its intended purpose: efficiently racking up vertical gain.
Once at the top, of course, it’s time to ski down. So how does the Atomic Backland 65 UL perform on the descent? Considering its extreme lightness and minimal material, it performs very well. In tricky or even deeper snow, the ski’s tip has an effective early rise and doesn’t tend to deflect too much. Naturally, good balance is essential—staying centered, not too far forward. The ski holds its line well and feels reassuring.
On hard snow, when looking to shape turns, the Atomic Backland 65 UL is also quite capable. The 24-meter radius is well chosen. Stability is achieved through pivoted, skidded turns at varying speeds. When properly balanced over the middle of the ski, edge grip is noticeable. Forward or backward imbalance immediately affects stability. Even on fairly steep, hard-packed slopes, the ski shows a slightly carved feel. However, the preferred technique remains directional, pivoted/skidded turns.
This is an excellent product for skiers who may not necessarily have a high technical level and are looking to add uphill skiing after resort skiing, with a fitness-oriented approach.
However, to ski it at sustained speed, very solid technique is required. A competitor is expected to meet this technical demand in order to handle all types of snow with such a narrow ski—without necessarily focusing on style or aesthetics, but rather on 100% efficiency on the climb.
A true competition ski, 100% efficient on the ascent. Of course, the skier must be able to manage its extreme lightness on the descent. A very good racing ski.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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