A modern shape and less reactive materials for the Backland model with the widest appeal
- Buyer’s Guide reviews
- In words
- Technical specifications
Buyer’s Guide reviews
The charts show our impressions from testing
Product info
Category average
In words
Intro
The OG Backland line (minus the UL and SL) is Atomic's most popular, a troubleshooter that meets the needs of the average skier. It has also been completely overhauled, for modern, sustainable ski touring, with the narrower 78 model being retired and substituted by the 88, which will take its place alongside the 85 and 95 models. The poplar core works in combination with fiberglass layers for a smooth, forgiving ride.
On the snow
Where does the Backland 88 differ from the 89 SL, its closest relation in terms of geometry? In its responsiveness, which is more controlled and controllable, suitable for a wide user base. The poplar and fiberglass provide a more neutral response and less lively edge changes (as well as less instability). The result is an intuitive ski that glides effortlessly into and out of turns, without needing the progressiveness of the 89 SL when releasing. The tip is softer, but it is a damper ride overall. On more difficult terrain, including hard or choppy snow, its laid-back nature struggles to cope. But it's a situation in which this ski's target market is unlikely, or rarely, likely to find itself. It's up there with the Wayback 89: where its American cousin employs autopilot, the Backland relies on human intervention. It's a little like the Boeing/Airbus rivalry. For other skis that sit halfway between the light and classic touring segments, check out the Ripstick Tour 88.
Lab
Slightly concave at the tip and tail, flat in the center. No structure or wax, reasonably good edges 1.5 x 1.6 mm at 90°, base edge 1.5°. The tip and tail need detuning. Better than other Atomic models in this category.
Technical specifications
Construction
cap-sidewall
Materials
poplar, glass fiber
Base
sintered UHMWPE
Available sizes
162, 169, 176, 183
Released in
2023
Made in
Austria
Price
599.99 €
Declared specsMeasured by us
We measured the length 176 to get all the details
176 cm
Length
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124 cm
Tip width
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112 cm
Tail width
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90 cm
Waist width
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N/A
Edge contact
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N/A
Camber
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N/A
Tip rocker
XXXXX
N/A
Tail rocker
XXXXX
1.300 g
Individual weight
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N/A
Left weight
XXXXX
N/A
Right weight
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17,4 m
Sidecut radius
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N/A
Load-bearing surface
XXXXX
N/A
Tip torsion
XXXXX
N/A
Center torsion
XXXXX
N/A
Tail torsion
XXXXX
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