By Liam Anderson
Atomic Backland 88
Overview and Intended Use
The Backland 88 targets tourers who want one ski for big days and mixed conditions. With an 88 mm waist and directional shape, it climbs light yet feels trustworthy on hard snow and spring corn. The HRZN 3D tip adds float and easy turn initiation without nervous deflection. It’s agile in tight couloirs and forests, while maintaining enough composure for open slopes. It isn’t a deep‑day surf stick, but for its width it remains capable when storms deliver. Intermediate to advanced tourers seeking predictability and low weight will feel right at home.
Uphill Efficiency and Construction
On the skintrack, the roughly 1,300 g per ski (176 cm) keeps energy high over long approaches. The tip resists plowing and reduces swing weight, aiding kick turns and tricky contours. The poplar core offers more damping than ultra‑light foam builds, and the Dura Cap sidewall protects edges from rock strikes. The updated layup reduces CO₂ while keeping versatility intact. The glossy topsheet looks premium, though in wetter snow it can ice a touch; in practice uphill efficiency remains excellent. Prefit skin compatibility simplifies transitions and coverage.
Downhill Performance and Stability
Downhill, performance is impressively composed for the weight. All‑Mountain Rocker 15/85/0 delivers secure edge hold and a supportive, near‑flat tail that provides braking power and stability on firm snow. The mid‑radius sidecut (17.4 m at 176) encourages smooth arcs without feeling locked. The HRZN tip aids in soft snow, yet 88 mm has limits on true storm days. On refrozen or wind‑affected surfaces it stays predictable, though it lacks the mass and damping of heavier skis. Versus the Zero G 95 it’s more forgiving; compared to the Blacklight 88 it’s a touch calmer but heavier.
Specs Explained and Sizing Advice
At 124‑90‑112 mm (176), the dimensions yield quick edge‑to‑edge transitions, enough tip area for flotation, and a supportive tail for stability and skin clip security. The 17.4 m radius promotes a neutral, medium turn shape that’s easy to vary. The 15/85/0 rocker means early tip rise for float, ample camber for grip and rebound, and minimal tail rocker for confidence on traverses. Weight per ski dictates how fresh you feel at the top; here the balance is strong. Size near your height for all‑round use; go longer for speed stability or shorter for agility.
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