Hi, looking at these skis as as lighter alternative to my current touring set up - 170cm Rossignol Savory 7s (c.2014) with Shift Bindings.
I'm 164cm and ~60kg and an experienced skier. Unsure which size to get - convention would say 156 as slightly shorter than my height, but that seems like a big jump down from 170.
Any advice/info on what shorter skis would feel like appreciated - for the last 10 years I've only ever skied on my 170s!
Atomic Backland 98 Ski - Women
As a version of the esteemed Backland 100 designed specifically for shorter or lighter skiers, the Backland 98 jumps into the fray of powder-hunting, crud-busting skis in the competitive 95-105mm-waisted ski category. What makes this striped salmon of a powder board distinct from all the rest? Foremost in our testers' minds was the rocker/camber balance of the Backland 98, which makes the ski notably predictable and obedient even as conditions change from untracked blower to cut-up chalk to windboard. Atomic has long excelled at making both flat-tailed touring skis such as the Backland UL 85, as well as blue whale-sized powder skis in their Bent Chetler series, and the Backland 98 is the best of both worlds, freeride and touring alike. Atomic, true to its Austrian heritage and alpine-race-ski engineering roots, made sure that the Backland 98 would feel stable on edge and quick to engage when turning on hard snow. Not just a flash of brilliance for a few days of skiing, the full sidewall construction underlies the ski's durability for many deep days in the backcountry to come. If the goal is to bust crud and surf pow with the same boards on your feet, the Atomic Backland 98 Women's ski should get the nod.
- HRZN Tech tip shaping increases flotation in soft snow, and decreases turn deflection in variable conditions.
- Detuned for lighter skiers, the carbon backbone provides the right amount of stiffness for a responsive, but supple ride.
- Atomic's Powder Rocker profile yields easy turning in powder and crud alike.
- Full sidewall construction makes for a durable ski with solid edge hold.
Update 2021/22: The topsheet has been revamped.
Update 2022/23: Atomic kindly updated the topsheet again.
Update 2023/24: New year means a new topsheet atop the same awesome ski.
| Specifications | |
| Lengths (cm) | 156, 164, 172 |
|
Weight |
1095g [156] 1185g [164] 1265g [172] |
| Weight (pair) | 2190g [156] 2370g [164] 2530g [172] |
|
|
126.5-97-117 [156] 127.5-98-118 [164] 128.5-99-119 [172] |
|
Turn |
12.5m [156] 14.6m [164] 17.0m [172] |
|
Skin |
Round tip, curved tail with rubber protector |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Rockered tip and tail (20%/10%), light camber underfoot (70%) |
|
|
HRZN Tech tip, shorter radius, mostly round tail |
|
|
HRZN Tech, Carbon Backbone with Ultra Power woodcore |
|
|
Carbon fiber and Karuba wood |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Ski touring in soft snow and mixed conditions |
| Notes | HRZN Tech spoon a rockered tip offers simple, fun turning |
| Bottom Line | Well balanced ski for powder-heavy touring |
| Compare to other Women's Skis | |
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Questions & Reviews
3/24/2025
3/24/2025
You could go with either the 156 or 164. The shorter ski would be easier to handle in trees and such, whereas the longer ski will float and handle speed better. Boots are another factor - if you've got a soft, lightweight boot, a shorter ski will be easier to handle. If you've got heavier boots, it might not be an issue to push a bigger ski around.
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3/18/2025
Hi,
I am a man, I'm 5'9 and 170 lbs. Is the Backland 98 a good idea in 172 compared to Backland 100 ? And why?
Thank you!
I am a man, I'm 5'9 and 170 lbs. Is the Backland 98 a good idea in 172 compared to Backland 100 ? And why?
Thank you!
3/18/2025
Rolka, Yes it is a good idea.
At one point Atomic said the womens version had a slightly softer flex, more recently they say it is the same ski. Since we are out of the 172 in the 100, you can still grab a good deal here.
At one point Atomic said the womens version had a slightly softer flex, more recently they say it is the same ski. Since we are out of the 172 in the 100, you can still grab a good deal here.
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12/2/2024
Hi, I’m planning to get these skis and would like a robust pin binding to use. Something cheaper than Shifts. I’ll be using the skis mostly for day tours, and lift accessed off piste. Do you have any recommendations please?
12/2/2024
Louise, Currently last year's Shifts are on sale at a very good price.
Or fill this out for a personalized recommendation - binding finder
Or fill this out for a personalized recommendation - binding finder
12/2/2024
Hi Louise,
The Dynafit Speed Radical is a good option for a durable, simple tech binding. If you want something with brakes, the ATK Crest 10 is a reliable fully featured binding. Shoot us an email at help@skimo.co and we can get you more personalized recommendations!
The Dynafit Speed Radical is a good option for a durable, simple tech binding. If you want something with brakes, the ATK Crest 10 is a reliable fully featured binding. Shoot us an email at help@skimo.co and we can get you more personalized recommendations!
Answer this question:
11/29/2024
Hello, I am a lifelong skier (on the more aggressive side of intermediate), who has typically skied resort, but looking to dabble in backcountry + touring. I'm looking to do both resort skinning and skiing down for a workout as well as eventually backcountry/sidecountry. Would this be a good ski for both?
I currently ski on some old K2's that are 102mm, and I have 172's, and sometimes feel like a bit much. I'm 5'9" and 170lb - Would you recommend 164 or 172 in my case for my newness to touring? TYSM!
I currently ski on some old K2's that are 102mm, and I have 172's, and sometimes feel like a bit much. I'm 5'9" and 170lb - Would you recommend 164 or 172 in my case for my newness to touring? TYSM!
11/30/2024
Hi Jules,
This would be a good ski for your use! It's light enough to make resort laps enjoyable and uphills fairly efficient, and it is a pretty friendly ski on the downhill and versatile in a variety of conditions. This waist width is a pretty good place to be for an all-around touring ski.
I think if your 172cm skis feel a little long for you, sizing down to the 164cm ski wouldn't be a bad idea! When touring, shorter skis are easier to handle on the uphill, and they will be a bit easier to turn in tight places on the downhill as well!
This would be a good ski for your use! It's light enough to make resort laps enjoyable and uphills fairly efficient, and it is a pretty friendly ski on the downhill and versatile in a variety of conditions. This waist width is a pretty good place to be for an all-around touring ski.
I think if your 172cm skis feel a little long for you, sizing down to the 164cm ski wouldn't be a bad idea! When touring, shorter skis are easier to handle on the uphill, and they will be a bit easier to turn in tight places on the downhill as well!
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11/24/2024
Hi there,
Looking for an uphill ski that’ll get me down safely. I’m not a great skier, prefer the uphill workout but still need to get down somehow
Looking for an uphill ski that’ll get me down safely. I’m not a great skier, prefer the uphill workout but still need to get down somehow
11/25/2024
Hi Kristen,
This would be a good option. Very capable, but still friendly and easy to ski.
This would be a good option. Very capable, but still friendly and easy to ski.
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11/11/2024
I'd like to mount a set of ATK freeraider bindings to these skis. Would those bindings (~400g each) be too heavy for such a light ski?
11/11/2024
Hi Jane, I'm elated that 400 grams is now considered a heavy binding! In the big picture, they are still on the light side and work great on these skis. Please make sure you're charted within the release value range (7-15) which varies by your boot sole length amongst other factors.
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9/4/2024
Howdy!
My local ski shop has a pair of Atomic Backland 98’s 156cm for sale.
My question: I’m a male 5’8” 175lbs. Long time telly skier post-knee replacement. Thinking about an A/T setup. Do you think this ski is too small for me? I ski only pow and I’m dialing it back after knee replacement. Thanks!
My local ski shop has a pair of Atomic Backland 98’s 156cm for sale.
My question: I’m a male 5’8” 175lbs. Long time telly skier post-knee replacement. Thinking about an A/T setup. Do you think this ski is too small for me? I ski only pow and I’m dialing it back after knee replacement. Thanks!
9/4/2024
Hey Steve, the 156cm should hit you somewhere near mouth level. While the Backland 98 doesn't have an insane amount of tip and tail rocker, it is pretty quick turning, and I think the 156cm would feel a bit short. The 164cm might feel better at higher speeds while still being quite maneuverable.
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6/13/2024
Hello! Just wondering what size you would put a 170cm 70kg female on, for a light backcountry ski with variable maritime (often icier) conditions? (Kiwi). Usually ski around 168cm length
6/13/2024
Hello Anna
Good question. For powder skiing, the longer one. But for firm and variable snow, the 164cm will ski better and be easier to handle.
Good question. For powder skiing, the longer one. But for firm and variable snow, the 164cm will ski better and be easier to handle.
Answer this question:
5/7/2024
Hi, can you recommend a precut skin for Atomic Backland 98 Womens ski, 164cm length. Thanks.
5/7/2024
Hi Dario,
Unfortunately, Atomic doesn't make a precut option for the Backland 98. Your best bet would be one of our various trim-to-fit offerings with a universal tip bail and tail clip. If you're mostly skiing powder/soft snow, I would highly recommend a mohair skin. If spring snow is in your future as well, you might opt for a mix - Contour and Pomoca are some of our favorites.
If you want to dive deeper into skins, email us at help@skimo.co!
Unfortunately, Atomic doesn't make a precut option for the Backland 98. Your best bet would be one of our various trim-to-fit offerings with a universal tip bail and tail clip. If you're mostly skiing powder/soft snow, I would highly recommend a mohair skin. If spring snow is in your future as well, you might opt for a mix - Contour and Pomoca are some of our favorites.
If you want to dive deeper into skins, email us at help@skimo.co!
5/7/2024
What would you recommend regarding width and length for a trim-to-fit skin to fit my ski. The ski length is 164cm, with tip/waist/tail being 127.5 / 98 / 118.
5/7/2024
For width, we want to ideally match the maximum width of the tail minus a few millimeters for the edges. So you will want a width of 115-120mm for those dimensions. For length, simply choose one of the size ranges that puts your ski in the middle - so for Pomoca you would opt for 155-170cm, or for Contour, 161-168cm.
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4/1/2024
Hi!
I’ve been touring with my heavy inbounds skis and frame bindings and have decided to upgrade to a dedicated backcountry setup so I can hike for longer without my hips getting tired.
I was able to demo these skis and I actually really loved them. The conditions were pretty bad - basically sheet ice with some slush over top in spots, but I actually had an OK time on theses skis. I felt really stable and was even making good turns on the ice. (I also demoed the 88s and they felt horrible in comparison.)
I’m based in New England so I’m looking for a touring ski that will be good for the conditions here, and I’m looking for input on whether these are the right ones…
We get a lot of crust and crud in the backcountry here, and these skis seem like they are substantially lighter than every other popular touring ski option (Head Kore, Blizzard Zero G).
How do these skis perform on crusty/crud-y conditions? Are they too light/flexible for that type of skiing? Do you recommend I look for something different for East Coast conditions?
I’ve been touring with my heavy inbounds skis and frame bindings and have decided to upgrade to a dedicated backcountry setup so I can hike for longer without my hips getting tired.
I was able to demo these skis and I actually really loved them. The conditions were pretty bad - basically sheet ice with some slush over top in spots, but I actually had an OK time on theses skis. I felt really stable and was even making good turns on the ice. (I also demoed the 88s and they felt horrible in comparison.)
I’m based in New England so I’m looking for a touring ski that will be good for the conditions here, and I’m looking for input on whether these are the right ones…
We get a lot of crust and crud in the backcountry here, and these skis seem like they are substantially lighter than every other popular touring ski option (Head Kore, Blizzard Zero G).
How do these skis perform on crusty/crud-y conditions? Are they too light/flexible for that type of skiing? Do you recommend I look for something different for East Coast conditions?
4/2/2024
Hi Sarah,
In general, lightweight touring gear doesn't handle crud very well. Doesn't have the dampness that alpine gear does. The Backland 98 is pretty damp by touring standards, which would make it a good option for your use case. You might also want to take a look at the Fischer Transalp 98 CTI. A bit heavier, but they'd make for a great variable snow setup. And plenty of fun in soft snow as well.
In general, lightweight touring gear doesn't handle crud very well. Doesn't have the dampness that alpine gear does. The Backland 98 is pretty damp by touring standards, which would make it a good option for your use case. You might also want to take a look at the Fischer Transalp 98 CTI. A bit heavier, but they'd make for a great variable snow setup. And plenty of fun in soft snow as well.
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2/29/2024
I'm 5'7" and 122lb and looking at the Volkl Rise Beyond 96, the Atomic Backland 98W, and the Voile Hypercharger W. I'm an advanced/fast skier at the resort but in the backcountry I'm definitely NOT aggressive. This would be primarily my backcountry ski quiver of one (that's the dream, right?) for Sierra powder/cement, crust, and spring corn. I'm comfortable with a 163-165 length. Looking for something easy to turn through trees yet has some stability on firm snow and float in open bowls. Priorities are light weight yet enough oomph to not get knocked around. My boots are Scarpa Gea RS. Which ski would you steer me toward?
3/1/2024
Hi Jen,
You're on the right track! The Rise Beyond 96 is a great ski that is carvy on firm snow and tons of fun on corn, and can still float well in powder due to its large shovel. It has a stiff, round flex profile that works quite well in many conditions. The Backland 98 will be a little more soft-snow oriented, along with the Hypercharger. The Backland loves shorter powder turns, and the Hypercharger is a fun and playful ski with some energy that will want to open it up a little more. I would lean towards the Volkls if optimizing a little bit more for adventure skiing/ski mountaineering and springtime, or one of the other two for more winter conditions.
If you'd like to discuss skis in more detail, feel free to email us at help@skimo.co!
You're on the right track! The Rise Beyond 96 is a great ski that is carvy on firm snow and tons of fun on corn, and can still float well in powder due to its large shovel. It has a stiff, round flex profile that works quite well in many conditions. The Backland 98 will be a little more soft-snow oriented, along with the Hypercharger. The Backland loves shorter powder turns, and the Hypercharger is a fun and playful ski with some energy that will want to open it up a little more. I would lean towards the Volkls if optimizing a little bit more for adventure skiing/ski mountaineering and springtime, or one of the other two for more winter conditions.
If you'd like to discuss skis in more detail, feel free to email us at help@skimo.co!
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2/6/2024
I’m looking at pairing these Atomic Backland 98s with ATK Crest 8 bindings. A 102 mm brake seems most appropriate, but I see those bindings heavily discounted with the 108 mm brake. Would the 108 mm brake be too wide for this ski in a 164 cm length?
2/6/2024
Hi Eric, I'd go with 97mm on that ski for the cleanest fit (as to not kick the brake arms when skinning or skiing). As far as pricing, they all cost the same so that must be a fluke. Note you can switch brakes after the bindings are mounted.
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11/27/2023
i am looking for a back country ski similar to my resort salomon qst 99. I tried mind bender 106 and they were too much for me. is this a good option or the icelandic mystic 97? im 5'4 125 pounds
11/27/2023
Hi Alexa! I think you'd find the Atomic Backland 98 to your liking based on your preference for the QST 99. Now there are some inherent differences when comparing a resort ski to a touring ski, but with construction aside, they should perform quite similarly as they are both versatile soft snow-biased skis. The Atomics are quite easygoing, intuitive to turn, and overall a good time. Hard to disagree with :)
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5/16/2023
Hello! I’m looking to replace my Voile Superchargers, which feel a bit erratic (likely because they’re too short). Looking at the Dynastar M-Tour 99 and the Backland 98. I demoed the Bent Chetler 100 and really hated the light/stiff combination (got knocked around). For that reason, the Dynastars appeal to me because of the wood core. However, I prefer a rockered tail. Ski the Sheeva 11 and Unleashed 98 in the resort and love both. What would you recommend? Also open to other suggestions! Thank you!
5/16/2023
Hey Jess - You should reach out to us at help@skimo.co and we can deep dive
into some options for you.
into some options for you.
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3/23/2023
I'm a strong intermediate skier and am looking at these skis (Atomic Backland 98W) for skiing in Colorado, 50/50 resort and backcountry. How do they compare to the Dynafit Free 97's, the other ski I'm considering? Also, I'm 5'2" and 105 lbs...what size would you recommend for me in the Backland (156 or 164)? Thanks!
3/24/2023
Sarah, The Backland 98 is a wonderful BC powder ski. But if you want a 50/50 ski that will handle groomers and other Resort snow (crud :), the Free 97 would be a much better choice.
Based on your height/weight, the 156cm is right.
Based on your height/weight, the 156cm is right.
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2/27/2023
I'm replacing my Gotbacks 146 cm. (104 waist)
I'm 5'1" and ski mostly backcountry or skin up ski area and one downhill run, so I'm looking for a lighter ski for the uphill.
I would say I'm an advanced intermediate, but not super aggressive. Struggling to find something light, wide (95 or more), and short.
My current skis feel a bit short.
Would you recommend these for me?
I'm 5'1" and ski mostly backcountry or skin up ski area and one downhill run, so I'm looking for a lighter ski for the uphill.
I would say I'm an advanced intermediate, but not super aggressive. Struggling to find something light, wide (95 or more), and short.
My current skis feel a bit short.
Would you recommend these for me?
2/27/2023
Marion,
These are a great balance of light, damp and stable! You could also check out the Elan Riptstick Tour 94 W ski. The unique rocker in the tip makes it very quick edge to edge.
These are a great balance of light, damp and stable! You could also check out the Elan Riptstick Tour 94 W ski. The unique rocker in the tip makes it very quick edge to edge.
2/27/2023
Hi Marion, I might also suggest the Women's Hyper Charger which goes a little smaller (154) and is easy to ski and very light.
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2/6/2023
I am torn between these and the Hannibal 96 if you could offer any advice. I'd love to pick a pair of 50/50 skis for resort and touring. When in the resort I prefer to stay off groomers but love off piste, bumps, trees. I dont love speeding. I'm 5'2" 103lbs type 2 skier. Currently ski atomic mavericks 95ti in 165. Previously blizzard sheevas 10 in 164. Both fun to ski but as a smaller lighter skier my knees are torched at the end of the day/ multi day ski trips from throwing that weight around. Would you recommend these in the 156/164 or the Hannibal's in the 160s? I ski mostly in Utah but will venture out. Thanks for your thoughts!
2/7/2023
Jane,
Both of these skis will be easier to muscle around than your resort skis, simply because they're lighter. The Backlands are damp and playful, while the Hannibal is powerful. The Hannibal is stiffer, and is probably more fun to carve on groomers. Off groomers they might feel a bit clunkier in trees and moguls than the Backland.
So overall, I'd recommend the Backland, but you could go either way!
Both of these skis will be easier to muscle around than your resort skis, simply because they're lighter. The Backlands are damp and playful, while the Hannibal is powerful. The Hannibal is stiffer, and is probably more fun to carve on groomers. Off groomers they might feel a bit clunkier in trees and moguls than the Backland.
So overall, I'd recommend the Backland, but you could go either way!
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1/25/2023
Hello, are those skis good for a beginner. I'm a snowboarder but I started skiing recently. I'm 132lbs, 5'7".we have mixed conditions here. Thank you
1/25/2023
Katie,
This would be a great ski for you! The dampness will help soak up variable conditions, while the ski is wide enough to float pretty well in powder but not so wide that it becomes a burden in other conditions.
This would be a great ski for you! The dampness will help soak up variable conditions, while the ski is wide enough to float pretty well in powder but not so wide that it becomes a burden in other conditions.
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12/8/2022
Are these still the same exact ski as the men's Backland 100 apart from graphics for 2023?
12/8/2022
Hi Ben, yes the construction is the same.
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6/17/2022
hello! I am trying to decide on my first pair of touring skis, I’ve been skiing since childhood, but am just getting into the backcountry scene. I will mostly be using them in Montana and am 5’8 135lbs. Would you recommend these or the 107 w backland? Also as far as length the 172 or 164cm? I am thinking of pairing them with salmon mnt pure bindings or the shift 10s. Any advice would be appreciated thank you!!
6/17/2022
Hi Anna,
The Backland 98 (same as the men's 100) are light and prefer powder skiing. The 107 will be your freeride model, skiing fast and in variable snow is their thing. Most people would probably put someone your size on the 164cm, but for powder skiing, the 172cm would be nice.
Bindings, unless you plan to ski this ski 90% of the time in a resort, get the Salomon MTN (or Atomic Backlands). The Shift is more a resort binding than a touring binding, and I gather you have plenty of resort gear already.
To dive in deeper, you can email us at help@skimo.co.
The Backland 98 (same as the men's 100) are light and prefer powder skiing. The 107 will be your freeride model, skiing fast and in variable snow is their thing. Most people would probably put someone your size on the 164cm, but for powder skiing, the 172cm would be nice.
Bindings, unless you plan to ski this ski 90% of the time in a resort, get the Salomon MTN (or Atomic Backlands). The Shift is more a resort binding than a touring binding, and I gather you have plenty of resort gear already.
To dive in deeper, you can email us at help@skimo.co.
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