Atomic Backland Pure — Review

A minimalist, brakeless tech binding focused on low weight, reliability, and clean touring performance. The Atomic Backland Pure (essentially the same platform as the Salomon MTN Pure) blends ease of use with solid downhill control for its class. It’s aimed at tourers who prioritize efficiency and simplicity and are comfortable running a leash instead of brakes.

Key takeaways

Light and efficient : about 298–305 g per binding; ideal for long days and big vert.
Simple release scheme : three swappable spring options (W/M/EXP) rather than a continuous numeric DIN range.
Brakeless design : includes a leash; lower weight and fewer parts to ice up, but requires disciplined safety practices.
Power transfer : 40 mm wide mounting plate adds stability on wider touring skis.

Who is it for?

Backcountry/touring skiers who value uphill efficiency and straightforward operation.
Riders who prefer a brakeless, leash-based setup to save grams and reduce mechanical complexity.
Skiers who want a dependable, low-maintenance binding for big tours and mixed snow.
Not ideal for: very aggressive resort charging, frequent cliff drops, or anyone wanting fully adjustable numeric DIN and integrated brakes.

Specs explained

Type of binding (Tech/pin alpine touring): frameless pin design dedicated to touring; maximizes uphill efficiency with natural stride and low weight.
DIN / release value (W/M/EXP): three spring-stiffness presets (Women/Men/Expert); simple and consistent, but not a fine-tunable numeric DIN scale.
Elastic travel (not published): no official AutoFlex spec for the Pure; less documented elasticity can feel a bit firmer than systems with measured elastic travel.
Brake width (brakeless, leash included): no integrated brakes; saves weight and reduces icing, but relies on a leash and careful handling in falls.
Weight (approx. 298–305 g per binding): very light; a noticeable advantage on long climbs and multi-lap days.
Compatibility (ISO 9523 tech inserts; Backland/Dynafit crampons): requires touring boots with tech inserts; accepts crampons in 80/90/100/110 mm for steep/icy approaches.
Materials (aluminum alloy, steel, reinforced polymer): mostly metal construction with strategic polymer parts; strong for the weight with a 2‑year retailer-noted warranty.

Uphill and transitions

The Step-In Aid helps line up toe pins for quick, confident entry, even in wind or cold. Three climbing aids (0°/7°/13°) cover everything from flats to sustained steeps. The brakeless layout streamlines flips and transitions with fewer parts to freeze or snag.

Downhill performance

For a sub‑300 g tech binding, the Backland Pure delivers composed edge hold and predictable release behavior. The 40 mm wide mount spreads forces better on mid-fat to wider touring skis. The W/M/EXP spring logic is simple and durable; however, skiers who want precise DIN fine-tuning or added elastic “cushion” may prefer bindings with adjustable lateral/vertical release and documented elasticity.

Comparisons

Salomon MTN Pure: effectively the same binding; choose based on price/availability.
Dynafit Speed Radical: similarly light with numeric release adjustability and brake options; more fine-tuning, a bit more complexity.
ATK Crest 10/12: very light, commonly includes brakes and adjustable release; typically pricier with more features.
Marker Alpinist 10: light with brake options and numeric DIN; slightly heavier in brake configuration but more versatile for mixed resort/tour use.

Mounting, adjustment, and durability

With 30 mm heel adjustment, it accommodates a healthy range of boot sole lengths—useful for quiver-sharing and resale. The aluminum/steel build feels stout for the weight; regular de-icing and pin cleaning help maintain reliability. Retailers note a 2‑year warranty for added peace of mind.

Verdict

The Atomic Backland Pure is a confident pick for tourers who want light, simple, and reliable—and who are happy with a leash instead of brakes. If you need brakes, granular DIN adjustment, or more elasticity for resort abuse, look to Dynafit Speed Radical, Marker Alpinist, or ATK Crest. For true touring focus, this is a no‑nonsense partner that punches above its gram class.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How do I choose between the W/M/EXP springs?
A: Base it on body weight, terrain, and skiing style. Lighter/cautious skiers often prefer W; all‑around skiers M; heavier or more aggressive lines may suit EXP. When in doubt, consult a trained tech.

Q: Can I add brakes to the Backland Pure?
A: There’s no official brake kit for the Pure. If you want integrated brakes, consider the Atomic Backland Tour (sister platform) or alternatives like Marker Alpinist or ATK Crest with brake options.

Q: Is it safe for occasional resort laps?
A: For mellow groomers and transitions, yes, but it’s not a replacement for an alpine binding for hard-charging resort days. For frequent lift-served skiing, choose a model with brakes and adjustable numeric DIN.

Q: Which crampons fit?
A: It accepts Backland/Dynafit-style crampons in 80/90/100/110 mm. Pick a size just wider than your ski at the crampon mount point.