Atomic Backland UL 78 Ski
The redesigned Backland UL 78 is the culmination of years of Atomic working to perfect the tech that goes into a good lightweight ski. Tracing its roots to freeride and skimo racing skis, the 78mm-wide mountaineering ski incorporates all the unique Atomic tech that we love while staying light and responsive. This updated model features the popular HRZN Tech tip, which offers advanced float and steering in powder while simultaneously trading "grabbiness" for improved control and carving on harder snow. The core construction sandwiches the Ultra Light Woodcore between two sheets of carbon, which helps the ski respond quickly and snappily. When asked to give one word to describe the Backland UL 78, Skimo Co technician Tim said "obedient". He then went on to give many, many more words to describe this ski because Tim is, in fact, not as obedient as the Atomic Backland UL 78.
- The core is constructed from Ultra Light Woodcore and is Carbon Powered, creating a light and snappy ski that goes up and down equally well.
- HRZN Tech tip allows you to turn sharply, skin in deep snow, and ski fast without fear of going head over tea kettle.
- With Directional Shape and Atomic's pronounced tip rocker, the Backland UL 78 is more stable and compliant than ever.
- Capped sidewall complements the narrow waist and stiff core while helping to transfer power efficiently to the edges.
Update 2022/23: This year's cool, metalic-blue top sheets look pretty hot!
Update 2024/25: This model was replaced by Atomic Backland 80 UL Ski.
Specifications | |
Lengths (cm) | 149, 156, 163, 170, 177 |
Weight |
895g [156] 930g [163] 990g [170] 1040g [177] |
Weight (pair) | 1790g [156] 1860g [163] 1980g [170] 2080g [177] |
|
110-79-99 [156] 111-79-100 [163] 112-79-101 [170] 113-79-102 [177] |
Turn |
11.9m [149] 13.6m [156] 15.5m [163] 17.5m [170] 19.5m [177] |
Skin |
Race notches, flat notched tail |
Specs Verified | Yes |
Design | |
|
15% rocker, 85% camber |
|
Directional, medium radius shape with spoon tips |
|
Cap Sidewall |
|
Ultra Light Woodcore |
Skimo Co Says | |
Usage | Ski mountaineering, fitness laps |
Notes | A fantastic ski mountaineering ski just got an upgrade |
Bottom Line | Light and compliant with impressive flex pattern |
Compare to other Low-fat Skis |
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Questions & Reviews
Both are fantastic, neither is superior to the other is the short answer. The UL 78 may be a bit happier in hard packed conditions with it's tighter turning radius and 85% rocker profile. The X-Alp has a slightly wider shovel, which will stay afloat better if you find yourself in the good stuff. Your skiing style may be what tips the scales as you have picked two very well matched skis in terms of popularity amongst the staff and performance on snow. You really can't go wrong either way!
I plan to use such skis with Atomic backland Ultimate boots and mostly for fitness around Grizzly Gulch and areas alike, but maybe some long spring missions. I am 5'6'' and a strong intermediate. What length do you recommend? 163 or 170?
Thanks!
Thanks!
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