Salomon MTN Summit 79 Ski
When Salomon's X-Alp ski hit the market back in 2017, it immediately garnered a loyal following for its ability to sprint up the skintrack at near-race speeds, while keeping the descents more fun and playful than we'd assume from a hard-snow-oriented mountaineering ski. Rarely had a ski appealed so well to efficiency-conscious skimo athletes and avid tourers alike, and the X-Alp proved to be an easy-skiing, fast-ascending option for racers looking for a wider touring ski and non-racers wanting a tool for spring conditions. Not much has changed for Salomon's goldilocks low-fat ski, with the MTN Summit 79 making minor tweaks to keep torsional stiffness and hard-snow performance at a maximum. While the original X-Alp received high marks for its easy-turning feel and great performance in powder, the ski could also feel noodly when conditions firmed up, especially for bigger or less balanced skiers. With the move from a basalt/fiberglass cap construction to a monocoque-carbon, partial-sidewall construction, the MTN Summit gains some of the bulldozing stability of its older siblings in the MTN Explore line while maintaining the technical precision that makes it a great choice for difficult skiing at high altitudes. Pair the MTN Summit with race boots and mohair skins and watch full-day tours turn into dawn-patrol laps, fueling the fire for bigger peaks and more ambitious objectives.
- Not as demanding as other mountaineering skis, the MTN Summit 79 brings tons of fun to the low-fat category.
- Karuba wood-core adds damping to a precise monocoque carbon chassis.
- Pairs well with race boots for speed, race-plus boots for versatility, and even standard touring boots for daily-driving.
- While the X-Alp branched off from Salomon's race-ski lineage, the MTN Summit 79 is more in line with their touring skis, the MTN Explore 88 and 95.
- Rockered tip with race-skin notch means the MTN Summit goes from weeknight racecourse to weekend powder lapping and back again.
- Glossy topsheet goes well with Capilene sun-hoodies and midsummer trips to the glacier.
| Specifications | |
| Lengths (cm) | 158, 164, 170 |
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Weight |
975g [164] 1045g [170] |
| Weight (pair) | 1950g [164] 2090g [170] |
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111-79-97 [158] 113-79-99 [164] 115-79-101 [170] |
|
Turn |
16m [158] 17m [164] 18m [170] |
|
Skin |
Tip notch, flat tail |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Rockered tip and camber underfoot |
|
|
Rounded tip, squared tail, short radius |
|
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Salomon's trademark carbon/flax blend w/partial sidewall |
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Karuba wood with carbon wrap |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Going fast while having fun in all conditions |
| Notes | Improved stability on hard snow |
| Bottom Line | Freerider's race ski, or racer's powder board? You decide |
| Compare to other Low-fat Skis | |
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Questions & Reviews
5/14/2024
How do these skis compare to the BD cirque 78?
5/14/2024
Hi Wu,
We didn't bring in the Cirque 78, so we have a bit less experience with it. It wasn't the most impressive ski when we initially tested it. The Salomon we've found to be a very versatile lightweight ski that can handle many different conditions well. It is damper than most skis of this weight and has a nice forgiving flex profile. It's reliable on edge and can handle steep and firm snow, but it isn't too stiff or unwieldy to ski powder or tight terrain. Just a great all-around lightweight mountaineering ski.
We didn't bring in the Cirque 78, so we have a bit less experience with it. It wasn't the most impressive ski when we initially tested it. The Salomon we've found to be a very versatile lightweight ski that can handle many different conditions well. It is damper than most skis of this weight and has a nice forgiving flex profile. It's reliable on edge and can handle steep and firm snow, but it isn't too stiff or unwieldy to ski powder or tight terrain. Just a great all-around lightweight mountaineering ski.
5/14/2024
Hi Wu, I have skied both and found the Salomon to be noticeably more damp with a rounder flex. It is a bit more friendly overall. The BD we felt was a bit overpriced for what you got.
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4/2/2024
Climbing skins from MTN 80 will be fit on that ski?
4/2/2024
Hi,
I don't have one on hand to double check, but they should work fine. I would crosscheck the dimensions we have listed above with the MTN 80 dimensions to be sure.
I don't have one on hand to double check, but they should work fine. I would crosscheck the dimensions we have listed above with the MTN 80 dimensions to be sure.
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3/4/2024
Hi - I have the MTN Explore 88 in 177 (probably about year 2019). I use them a lot for fitness: skin up ski, down at the resort on the east coast - so usually not powder. I have a pretty light setup - TLT 7 boots, and TLT Speedfit bindings.
I am an intermediate level resort skier - well, maybe a little better than that, but not an "expert". I am about 5'10 and 165lbs.
Now, I am thinking maybe I don't need the width of the MTN Explore 88 for east coast resort skiing, and can save a pound or more by switching to the MTN Summit 79 for my resort skiing, and keeping the MTN Explore for touring.
I see there are other choices, but I like the way the MTN Explore skis, and it's familiar, so I am thinking the MTN Summit is a logical addition.
I would get some sort of a light binding - it's tough getting to the top so i'm not in a hurry to get back down! I take it easy and enjoy the views...
what do you think?
I am an intermediate level resort skier - well, maybe a little better than that, but not an "expert". I am about 5'10 and 165lbs.
Now, I am thinking maybe I don't need the width of the MTN Explore 88 for east coast resort skiing, and can save a pound or more by switching to the MTN Summit 79 for my resort skiing, and keeping the MTN Explore for touring.
I see there are other choices, but I like the way the MTN Explore skis, and it's familiar, so I am thinking the MTN Summit is a logical addition.
I would get some sort of a light binding - it's tough getting to the top so i'm not in a hurry to get back down! I take it easy and enjoy the views...
what do you think?
3/4/2024
Hi Jeff,
You would probably like the MTN Summit 79! It is a nice ski that is forgiving and fun for a ski of its weight, and it will speed you up on the uphill. A great choice for fitness laps.
For bindings, we prefer to match the binding to the skier's preferences and needs, since there are so many factors. To help us do that, I'd recommend filling out our binding finderand we can correspond more in depth via email once we have a baseline for what you're looking for!
You would probably like the MTN Summit 79! It is a nice ski that is forgiving and fun for a ski of its weight, and it will speed you up on the uphill. A great choice for fitness laps.
For bindings, we prefer to match the binding to the skier's preferences and needs, since there are so many factors. To help us do that, I'd recommend filling out our binding finderand we can correspond more in depth via email once we have a baseline for what you're looking for!
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12/21/2023
Would this ski be suitable for an (athletic) beginner? Looking for a fitness ski on the east coast. Mostly will be doing laps at resorts. If so, what size would you recommend? 5ft9.5 160 lbs.
12/21/2023
Hi Jimmy, yes it would be. Not very demanding, quite compliant, yet reliable and carves well at the resort. The 170cm would be ideal.
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12/21/2022
How/would you compare this to the Atomic Backland UL 78 Ski? Considering a setup in this size and price range with Dynafit rotation 7s for quick laps at the resort, likely coming down on groomers when available, but anything goes after the close of lift operations in the spring. These would be my skinniest and lightest skis. Thanks!
12/21/2022
Hi Patrick,
The Backland UL 78 is quite similar to the MTN Summit 79. The Summit is slightly stiffer in hand flex but still quite easy going. It also has a slightly higher material quality with Salomon's flax layup. They are both on the "fun" side of things as opposed to a high-performance, need-to-drive-it type of ski. As always, we recommend choosing based on color in situations like these.
The Backland UL 78 is quite similar to the MTN Summit 79. The Summit is slightly stiffer in hand flex but still quite easy going. It also has a slightly higher material quality with Salomon's flax layup. They are both on the "fun" side of things as opposed to a high-performance, need-to-drive-it type of ski. As always, we recommend choosing based on color in situations like these.
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12/7/2022
Any insight on where I could still track down a precut skin for this ski? It looks like the precut skins are available for the new 2023 MTN 80. Maybe buying and trimming from there is an option?
12/7/2022
Michael-Buying the new skin and trimming would be one option or you could visit our skins on the roll page and custom build some skins too. If you would like help with that reach out to help@skimo.co.
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10/9/2022
Hello! Any ideas how do those compare to Salomon MNT 80 Carbon?
I'm picking between MNT 80 Carbon and Atomic Backland 78 UL. Which one is stiffer and better for technical/steep skiing?
Thanks in advance for any advice. ;)
I'm picking between MNT 80 Carbon and Atomic Backland 78 UL. Which one is stiffer and better for technical/steep skiing?
Thanks in advance for any advice. ;)
10/9/2022
Hi Pawel, strangely Salomon went with a heavier, less expensive construction in the MTN 80 Carbon. In contrast, the Summit 79 was a premium ski. The Atomic is a bit stiffer and would be better than the MTN 80 in the steeps.
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4/13/2022
Any thoughts on next year's version of this ski and/vs the Backland 78 UL? Trying to decide between these 2 skis for a fitness and sport race ski, wondering if either the MTN Summit or Backland 78 UL will be seeing big changes in the newer models. Thank you !
4/13/2022
Hi BD, next year Salomon will have an 80-waisted ski that is more entry-level (heavier, lower price). Sadly this MTN version is being discontinued.
The Backland UL will be unchanged. In comparison, the MTN Summit will be slightly longer turning and have a damper feel with the flax construction.
The Backland UL will be unchanged. In comparison, the MTN Summit will be slightly longer turning and have a damper feel with the flax construction.
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4/5/2022
Hi. I am one of those skiers from the 80s who prefers short radius turns in couloirs or trees and still enjoys the steeps. Looking for a spring ski in the sub one kilo range to go high in the mountains around Bozeman. Using Fischer Travers CS boots and prefer a lively ski that is quick edge to edge. This MT Summit 79 looks interesting but also interested in the Hagan Ultra 77, Dynafit Carbonio 76 and the Dynafit Blacklight. Currently skiing my last pair of the Dynafit Manaslu at 169 length. I am 5'5" and 150 lbs. Thank you
4/6/2022
Hi Tom,
The Summit 79 is a great ski for spring conditions and couloir skiing. Nice and quick edge to edge and the partial sidewall is going to give good edge hold on the steeps.
The Hagan 77 is one of my favorite skis, but it's not as stiff as the MTN Summit and has a more rounded out flex as opposed to the flex of the MTN Summit which is soft at the tips and tails while more rigid underfoot (allowing for stiffer-ski performance without compromising float). I would say the Hagan is more fun and playful while the Salomon is more adapted for technical skiing (though both have a lot of overlap in these areas).
The Blacklight Pro would be the closest of the Blacklight series to the MTN Summit 79. The Blacklight Pro is very much a mountaineering ski that was born and bred for the steep and narrow. It likes to be skied more deliberately than the other options and is less forgiving if your technique falters. That said, when skied the right way, the Blacklight Pro is a powerful and optimized mountaineering tool. It has the shortest radius of the three and is very maneuverable even in steep terrain. I think the Blacklight would be a great choice for you unless you'd prefer something a little more forgiving and playful in which case the MTN Summit 79 is an excellent choice.
The Summit 79 is a great ski for spring conditions and couloir skiing. Nice and quick edge to edge and the partial sidewall is going to give good edge hold on the steeps.
The Hagan 77 is one of my favorite skis, but it's not as stiff as the MTN Summit and has a more rounded out flex as opposed to the flex of the MTN Summit which is soft at the tips and tails while more rigid underfoot (allowing for stiffer-ski performance without compromising float). I would say the Hagan is more fun and playful while the Salomon is more adapted for technical skiing (though both have a lot of overlap in these areas).
The Blacklight Pro would be the closest of the Blacklight series to the MTN Summit 79. The Blacklight Pro is very much a mountaineering ski that was born and bred for the steep and narrow. It likes to be skied more deliberately than the other options and is less forgiving if your technique falters. That said, when skied the right way, the Blacklight Pro is a powerful and optimized mountaineering tool. It has the shortest radius of the three and is very maneuverable even in steep terrain. I think the Blacklight would be a great choice for you unless you'd prefer something a little more forgiving and playful in which case the MTN Summit 79 is an excellent choice.
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3/28/2022
Does somebody know how the Salomon MTN 79 compare to the Atomic Backland 80 SL? They seem to be quite similar, except for a slightly higher weight of the Atomic.
Here on Skimo.co I can only find the Atomic Backland UL 78. Is there a reason the 80 SL are not available?
Warm regards and thanks for any info!
Here on Skimo.co I can only find the Atomic Backland UL 78. Is there a reason the 80 SL are not available?
Warm regards and thanks for any info!
3/28/2022
Hi Simon, the 80 SL comes from the same mold as the UL 78 (same shape/profile). The latter is a more premium product with a carbon fiberglass layup, offering similar performance with less weight. The UL is more comparable to the MTN.
Salomon uses its flax construction on the MTN, which offers a damper feel and rounder flex, coupled with a longer radius (esp. in the shorter sizes).
Salomon uses its flax construction on the MTN, which offers a damper feel and rounder flex, coupled with a longer radius (esp. in the shorter sizes).
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3/27/2022
I'm looking for a new set of skis. Can you help me decide? The Salomons here sound really great, but I can't decide between those, the Hagan Ultra 77, and the K2 Wayback 80.
Which of those three is the easiest and safest on difficult snow or steep/icy sections (up to around 45°)? I don't go fast on such terrain. I'm 5'11'' and I lean towards the 170 cm sizes.
By the way: I love your website and all the information you're putting out there! Recommending it to all my skiing friends.
Cheers and thank you!
Which of those three is the easiest and safest on difficult snow or steep/icy sections (up to around 45°)? I don't go fast on such terrain. I'm 5'11'' and I lean towards the 170 cm sizes.
By the way: I love your website and all the information you're putting out there! Recommending it to all my skiing friends.
Cheers and thank you!
3/27/2022
Hi Simon, good question! The Salomon is for sure the easiest/most compliant, which can directly translate to safety for many skiers. The Ultra is a nice ski, but stiffer and can be bit more skittish. The Waybacks have extreme rocker and are akin to skiing on windshield wipers, scary in the steeps.
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3/4/2022
Dear sir or madam, I am reaching out to you to ask you about a product suitability. I am an advanced skier, former alpine skiing racer. I am looking for new ski-mountaineering skis. I measure 193cm and weigh 90 kgs. With the equipment I have about 100 kgs. I am quite keen on skis Salomon MTN Summit 79 (or Salomon s/lab x-alp race) skis in 170 cm. I am just little worried if the skis are capable to handle my weight for ski-mountaineering. My previous skis are Stockli Storm rider. They are good but a bit heavy. I go mostly 90 % touring and 10 % downhill in freeride mode in the Alps. I would appreciate your honest advice about the previously mentioned skis - the s/lab x-alp. Are they suitable for me, can they handle my weight and equipment load? Thank you very much in advance for your advice. Best regards. Drahos
3/4/2022
Hi Drahos,
The MTN Summit 79 is an awesome ski! Lightweight, with enough camber underfoot to hold an edge in firm snow, while also being a pretty forgiving ski with a rounder feel. I do not see your weight with gear being an issue with these skis in the backcountry. However, if you are spending time on piste, I may recommend a heavier and damper ski, as riding lifts is generally more demanding on a ski.
For a ski mountaineering ski that is more equipped for inbounds freeriding, I would look at either the Salomon MTN Explore 88, or the Elan Ripstick Tour 88.
The MTN Summit 79 is an awesome ski! Lightweight, with enough camber underfoot to hold an edge in firm snow, while also being a pretty forgiving ski with a rounder feel. I do not see your weight with gear being an issue with these skis in the backcountry. However, if you are spending time on piste, I may recommend a heavier and damper ski, as riding lifts is generally more demanding on a ski.
For a ski mountaineering ski that is more equipped for inbounds freeriding, I would look at either the Salomon MTN Explore 88, or the Elan Ripstick Tour 88.
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2/15/2022
Hi Skimo folks! I'm looking for a new ski and believe I have narrowed it down to this MTN Summit or the Backland 85 UL. I am looking for something lighter than my current setup for inbounds fitness laps, rec division skimo races like Power of Two, and occasional big days in the backcountry when I don't want to drag 2800g of ski up. Thoughts on one over the other? They both seem like great skis, I'm wondering if the added surface area of the 85 will make it more versatile for bc over the Summit's 79? My strength is the uphill part, I am just not a wonderful skier, so forgivability is also appreciated... Thank you!
2/15/2022
Hi ehh,
You have honed in on two great skis! The ski that is best for you will depend a little on your application. Based on what you have described, I would put you on the Salomon MNT Summit 79. A narrower waist width will be better suited to inbounds training laps, as well as the occasional skimo race. Also, these skis have a very forgiving construction, with a nice round turn radius. That being said, the shovel is still wide enough for that elusive May powder.
For context, Atomic Backland UL 85 is an all purpose spring ski. The weight is similar to the Summit 79, with a wider waist width. This ski has a more medium turn radius, and will require a little more input from the skier as compared with the Summit 79. The Horizon Tech tip and light rocker will do well in deep snow, and 85mm will be adept in anything that spring can dream up.
You have honed in on two great skis! The ski that is best for you will depend a little on your application. Based on what you have described, I would put you on the Salomon MNT Summit 79. A narrower waist width will be better suited to inbounds training laps, as well as the occasional skimo race. Also, these skis have a very forgiving construction, with a nice round turn radius. That being said, the shovel is still wide enough for that elusive May powder.
For context, Atomic Backland UL 85 is an all purpose spring ski. The weight is similar to the Summit 79, with a wider waist width. This ski has a more medium turn radius, and will require a little more input from the skier as compared with the Summit 79. The Horizon Tech tip and light rocker will do well in deep snow, and 85mm will be adept in anything that spring can dream up.
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2/8/2022
Hi Skimo.co, I'm a 175cm 75kg fairly aggressive skiier looking for a mountaineering and fitness ski at around 1kg. I'm torn between this Salomon MTN Summit in 170cm and the Ski Trab Magico 2.0 in 171cm. I'm looking for a ski that provides confidence when mountaineering while also being somewhat fun to open up on steep slopes when conditions are good. How do the ski's compare and which one would you recommend?
2/8/2022
Thanks for reaching out, Marcel. The Magico has a longer sidecut and would favor longer arcing turns compared to the shorter radius found on the MTN Summit, which favors quicker turns. For mountaineering, the longer sidecut on the Magico may be beneficial, as it won't get caught up as easily while making jump turns. Overall, both skis are great, however, it comes down to do you want an easier ski (Summit 79) or a ski that can be pushed a little harder (Magico).
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1/24/2022
Heya! I'm debating between this and the Atomic UL 78 for a lightweight summer couloir mission ski (including a lot of ski carrying). Even when coming from a freeride background, I'm still kind of tempted to go for the weight savings of the UL. My question is, how much stability difference there really is in those 150 grams?
Any other attributes that I should pay attention to between these skis? The partial sidewall does sound enticing. At 5'10 and 140 lbs, the 170cm length is what I'm gravitating towards.
Thank you in advance!
Any other attributes that I should pay attention to between these skis? The partial sidewall does sound enticing. At 5'10 and 140 lbs, the 170cm length is what I'm gravitating towards.
Thank you in advance!
1/24/2022
Joel-Great question, the Summit is a bit softer and rounder flexing ski than the UL. Which should make it easier to ski or a little better in punchy snow. The UL 78 is a little stiffer but i dont think it lacks in stability, maybe just some float in mushy snow.
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1/10/2022
Hi all, I'm looking to get a light pair of skis for ski mountaineering and these seem to fit the bill. However, I'm wondering if 170cm is really long enough since I'm 184cm tall and ca. 81kg. I currently tour with the Blizzard Zero G 95 at 177cm and quite enjoy them.
Thanks
Sean
Thanks
Sean
1/11/2022
Hey Sean, I am also 184cm and have owned ski mountaineering skis from 169-172cm and find that height pretty excellent. Overall that hits me right around nose height. That length is easy on the up and for doing technical jump turns and tricky sidestepping during descents the shorter length is quite versatile. Sure, skiing at higher speeds might feel a bit less confident but it's always give and take with this category of skis. Let us know if you have any more questions!
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1/3/2022
I'm torn between this and the Black Crows Mentis Freebird as my light and fast/long/spring touring option that can still ski real downhill. I want something to do a <24 hr tran-Sierra crossing this spring/volcanos/do it all around. The Mentis seems untested, but appealing and both are designed to go downhill still for the weight. I'm looking for a local demo if possible, but curious if anyone has got a chance to compare these? Open to other suggestions!
1/3/2022
Ryan- We have not skied the Mentis yet. Previous Black Crows skis in this category have been underwhelming. We can speak that the Salomon is a very solid performing ski with a relaxed tail that would fit your intended use very nicely.
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After being shamed by my fellow Skimo Co employees for not owning a sub 90mm ski, I decided to give this thing a try. No more name-calling now!
While it's not a race ski or even a race plus, it is the skinniest ski I've ever skied. That being said, I was quite surprised by the performance it offered.
It's about as squirrely as I had assumed something this light and skinny would be. However, it wasn't overwhelming by any means. I've gotten out on it a few times now and have been pleasantly surprised by how well it has handled absolutely terrible snow. From wind buff to refrozen tracks, these skis have not skied a single day of quality snow. But I think that's a good thing. Almost all skis would ski well in beautiful corn.
They're softer than something like the Dynafit Backlight series, but not too soft. They can hold an edge quite well on steep, icy terrain.
I'm excited to bring these tiny toothpicks up to the PNW to see how they fare on the North American portion of the Ring of Fire.
While it's not a race ski or even a race plus, it is the skinniest ski I've ever skied. That being said, I was quite surprised by the performance it offered.
It's about as squirrely as I had assumed something this light and skinny would be. However, it wasn't overwhelming by any means. I've gotten out on it a few times now and have been pleasantly surprised by how well it has handled absolutely terrible snow. From wind buff to refrozen tracks, these skis have not skied a single day of quality snow. But I think that's a good thing. Almost all skis would ski well in beautiful corn.
They're softer than something like the Dynafit Backlight series, but not too soft. They can hold an edge quite well on steep, icy terrain.
I'm excited to bring these tiny toothpicks up to the PNW to see how they fare on the North American portion of the Ring of Fire.
Comment on this review:
1/2/2021
Wondering about which length ski to get for the MTN Summit 79. I'm a female at 5'8" and weigh 125 lbs., and am a competent athlete and fairly aggressive skier.
1/5/2021
Hi Katie, the 164 would be the sweet spot for you, it's a very fun ski!
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11/2/2020
Howdy
I have a set of the Salomon MTN Summit 79 in 164 length. Any pre cut skins from Salomon coming your way. And if not, do you have a skin to recommend?
I have a set of the Salomon MTN Summit 79 in 164 length. Any pre cut skins from Salomon coming your way. And if not, do you have a skin to recommend?
11/3/2020
Hey Jim, unfortunately, we are not carrying a pre-cut skin for the MTN Summit 79. There are potentially a few options that could work out using some other pre-cut skins but potentially your best option would be building a custom one. If you wanted to email us at help@skimo.co we could set you up with the right combination. Thanks
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