Atomic Backland 85 Skis 2023

An 85mm waist, HRZN tip and UltraLight Wood core ensure efficient gliding and speed when going uphill whilst improving overall manoeuvrability. A Carbon Backbone refines the ride going back down by beefing up the levels of grip and power to cope with variable conditions so you stay in control. This is well suited to hut-to-hut tours or shorter ones, focusing on the climb. Terrain Type & Ability Level Terrain Type The width dictates that this isn't the right option for anyone dreaming of bottomless days and fresh snow, but it does mean that the 85 is quick and nimble for skiing in tight spaces. It's also not the skinniest ski on the mountain and will happily deal with choppier conditions and deeper snow. The flex feels nice and solid for the weight of the ski, giving it excellent edge hold and making it a good choice for skiers who demand performance so they can feel secure and really enjoy the ride down after the climb up. Skier Type Backcountry skiers who want to keep the weight to a minimum for the maximum ease when travelling longer distances, but who do not want to sacrifice performance. The 85 has plenty of grip and energy when skiing firmer snow. It'll suit a wide variety of skiers from novices all the way to experienced skiers tackling everything on the mountain. Overview Shape A directional shape with tip rocker means predictable handling and more of the ski's edge in contact with the snow, resulting in better grip and stability. 85mm in the waist is narrow enough to remain nimble and quick edge-to-edge but there's enough wide there if you do find some softer snow and want some width underfoot. The 17m radius (172cm) is long enough to boost the stability, helping the ski track cleanly whatever the snow condition. The HRZN Tech tip further improves the overall handling with a horizontal rocker that increases surface area. Rocker All Mountain Rocker use a 15/85/0 split of rocker/camber/rocker across the tip, main body and tail of the ski. This mix ensures excellent grip and response on firmer snow and when traversing, with some rocker at the front for better planning in soft conditions and easy handling when steering the skis. Core The Ultra Light Woodcore is made from poplar and caruba to ensure the weight is kept right down. Construction Cap Sidewall uses sidewall from the base to the top sheet for controlled power transmission and great edge hold. The rounded shape adds durability as it picks up less dings and knocks. Key Features HRZN Tech Tip HRZN Tech blends an ABS sidewall construction with an across-the-ski (horizontal) rocker. This adds 10% more surface area in the tip and tail without increasing swing weight. The result is better tracking through chop and crud and less tip deflection meaning greater stability, floatation and agility. Carbon Backbone An ultra-light insert that runs the length of the ski like a stabilising backbone. This provides exceptional agility and edge hold without extra weight. EB tester’s comments: Dani (Aviemore) A true tour ski that still feels solid. It's well balanced and nimble for tight situations, giving the confidence to go and explore whether it's a short or a multi-day tour. Technical Specifications Size (cm) Tip Width (mm) Waist Width (mm) Tail Width (mm) Radius (m) Weight (g) 165 116 85 104.5 16 1150 172 117 85 105.5 17 1240 179 118 85 106.5 19 1340 General Information Skier Ability: Intermediate/Advanced/Expert Terrain Type: Backcountry Rocker: Tip Rocker Radius: Medium Base: Sintered Bindings: Ski sold flat DIN: n/a Construction: Mini Cap Full Sidewall Core: Wood, Carbon Demo: N/A Sizing Description: Go shorter for reduced weight and quicker climbing properties, chose a longer length for more floatation and stability.