Best Alpine Touring Skis 2023

Alpine touring has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more skiers looking to explore the backcountry and get off the beaten path. However, to enjoy this type of skiing to the fullest, it’s important to have the right equipment, particularly when it comes to skis. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best alpine touring skis for 2023.

Our list includes a range of skis that are suitable for different types of terrain and skiing styles. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight ski for long tours or a more robust ski for steep descents, there’s something on our list for you. We’ve also taken into account factors such as stability, maneuverability, and ease of use, to ensure that each ski on our list is a top performer. So, if you’re planning on hitting the backcountry this winter, be sure to check out our list of the best alpine touring skis for 2023.

Understanding Alpine Touring Skis

Alpine touring, also known as backcountry skiing, is an exciting way to explore the mountains and access untouched terrain. However, it requires specialized equipment, including alpine touring skis. In this section, we will cover the basics of what makes alpine touring skis different from traditional downhill skis.

Construction

Alpine touring skis are designed to be lightweight and versatile. They are typically narrower and have a softer flex than traditional downhill skis, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces and on steep terrain. They also have a rockered profile, which means the tips and tails are turned up, making them more maneuverable in deep snow.

Bindings

Alpine touring skis require specialized bindings that allow the heel to lift off the ski for uphill travel and lock down for downhill skiing. These bindings are designed to release in the event of a fall to prevent injury.

Skins

To climb uphill on alpine touring skis, you need skins. These are specialized strips of material that attach to the base of the ski and grip the snow, allowing you to climb uphill without slipping backward.

Choosing the Right Skis

When choosing alpine touring skis, consider your skiing ability, the terrain you will be skiing, and the snow conditions you are likely to encounter. Look for skis that are lightweight, maneuverable, and have a rockered profile. Additionally, consider the width of the ski. Narrower skis are better for steep, technical terrain, while wider skis are better for deep powder.

In summary, alpine touring skis are designed to be lightweight, versatile, and easy to maneuver in steep terrain. They require specialized bindings and skins to climb uphill, and choosing the right skis depends on your skiing ability, the terrain you will be skiing, and the snow conditions you are likely to encounter.

Top Alpine Touring Skis of 2023

When it comes to selecting the best alpine touring skis for 2023, there are plenty of options available from various brands. We have researched and tested several models to bring you the top picks for this season.

The Blizzard Zero G 105 remains a top choice for its combination of low weight and performance. Its carbon frame and rocker-camber-rocker profile provide excellent control and stability in various snow conditions.

Another great option is the Black Crows Camox Freebird, which has been designed for backcountry skiing. With a lightweight construction and a versatile 96mm waist, it offers a smooth ride and excellent maneuverability on both uphill and downhill slopes.

The Elan Ripstick Tour 104 is another top contender that features a lightweight construction and a versatile profile. Its Amphibio profile and carbon rods provide excellent stability, while the TNT Technology ensures a smooth ride and easy maneuverability.

The Salomon MTN 96 Carbon is a great choice for those who value versatility and performance. Its carbon construction and rocker-camber-rocker profile provide excellent control and stability in various snow conditions.

The Black Crows Navis Freebird is an excellent option for those who want a ski that can handle deep powder and challenging terrain. Its wide profile and rocker-camber-rocker profile provide excellent float and stability, while the lightweight construction ensures easy maneuverability.

The Nordica Enforcer 104 Unlimited is a top pick for those who want a ski that can handle all-mountain terrain. Its lightweight construction and rocker-camber-rocker profile provide excellent control and stability, while the Energy 2 Ti construction ensures a smooth ride and easy maneuverability.

The Armada Locator 104 is another great option that features a lightweight construction and a versatile profile. Its EST All Mountain Rocker and carbon-Kevlar struts provide excellent stability, while the AR50 sidewall ensures a smooth ride.

The Line Vision 108 is a top contender that features a lightweight construction and a versatile profile. Its THC construction and rocker-camber-rocker profile provide excellent control and stability, while the VibeVeil technology ensures a smooth ride.

The Fischer Ranger 102 is a great choice for those who want a ski that can handle various snow conditions. Its Air Tec Ti construction and rocker-camber-rocker profile provide excellent control and stability, while the Carbon Nose ensures easy maneuverability.

The Blizzard Sheeva 9 is a top pick for women who want a ski that can handle various snow conditions. Its lightweight construction and rocker-camber-rocker profile provide excellent control and stability, while the Carbon Flipcore DRT technology ensures a smooth ride.

In conclusion, selecting the best alpine touring skis for 2023 requires considering various factors such as weight, profile, construction, and terrain. The above-listed models are some of the best options available from different brands and have been tested and proven to provide excellent performance and versatility.

Alpine Touring Skis for Different Skiing Styles

When it comes to choosing the best alpine touring skis for your needs, it’s important to consider your skiing style. Different skiing styles require different types of skis, and choosing the right ski can greatly enhance your experience in the backcountry. Here are some of the best alpine touring skis for different skiing styles:

All-Mountain Skis

All-mountain alpine touring skis are designed to handle a variety of conditions, from powder to hardpack. They are typically wider than frontside skis, but not as wide as freeride skis. All-mountain skis are a good choice if you plan on skiing a variety of terrain and conditions.

Some of the best all-mountain alpine touring skis for 2023 include:

  • Black Crows Camox Freebird
  • Dynafit Beast 98
  • Salomon
  • QST Lumen

Freeride Skis

Freeride alpine touring skis are designed for deep powder and big mountain terrain. They are wider than all-mountain skis and have a more pronounced rocker profile. Freeride skis are a good choice if you plan on skiing deep powder or big mountain terrain.

Some of the best freeride alpine touring skis for 2023 include:

  • Blizzard Zero G 108
  • Faction Agent 3.0X
  • K2 Wayback 106

We also dedicated guides on the best freeride skis and big mountain vs all mountain skis to learn more.

Ski Mountaineering Skis

Ski mountaineering alpine touring skis are designed for steep, technical terrain. They are typically narrower than all-mountain or freeride skis, with a more aggressive ski sidecut and a stiffer flex. Ski mountaineering skis are a good choice if you plan on skiing steep, technical terrain.

Some of the best ski mountaineering alpine touring skis for 2023 include:

  • Dynafit Seven Summits
  • La Sportiva Vapor Nano
  • Volkl VTA 80

Frontside Skis

Frontside alpine touring skis are designed for groomed runs and hardpack. They are typically narrower than all-mountain skis and have a more traditional camber profile. Frontside skis are a good choice if you plan on skiing groomed runs and hardpack.

Some of the best frontside alpine touring skis for 2023 include:

  • Atomic Backland 85
  • Fischer Transalp 82 Carbon
  • Rossignol Seek 7 Tour

Overall, choosing the best alpine touring skis for your needs comes down to your skiing style and the terrain you plan on skiing. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect ski to enhance your backcountry experience.

Choosing the Right Ski Based on Snow Conditions

When it comes to choosing the right ski for alpine touring, it’s important to consider the snow conditions you’ll be encountering. Different skis are designed to perform better in certain conditions, so understanding the nuances of snow can help you make an informed decision.

For powder days, look for skis with a wider waist width and a rockered profile. This will help you stay on top of the snow and make quick turns in deep powder. Some popular options for powder skis in 2023 include the Blizzard Zero G 105 and the Salomon QST 118.

If you expect to encounter variable conditions, such as crust or windblown snow, consider a ski with a stiffer flex and a narrower waist width. This will provide more stability and edge hold in challenging conditions. The Black Diamond Helio Carbon 104 and the Fischer Hannibal 106 are both great options for variable conditions.

For deep snow, a ski with a longer length and a rockered profile can help you stay afloat and maintain speed. Look for skis with a longer ski turn radius to make big, sweeping turns. The Dynafit Beast 108 and the K2 Wayback 106 are both excellent choices for deep snow. Read more on Short vs Long Skis to determine the best length for you.

It’s important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing the right ski for alpine touring. Your personal skiing style and preferences will also play a role in your decision. However, by considering the snow conditions you’ll be encountering, you can narrow down your options and find the best ski for your needs.

Performance and Versatility of Alpine Touring Skis

When it comes to choosing the best alpine touring skis for the 2023 season, performance and versatility are two key factors to consider. These skis should be able to handle a variety of terrain and snow conditions while also providing excellent downhill performance.

The Blizzard Zero G 95 and 105 are two top-performing skis that excel in both uphill and downhill scenarios. They are lightweight and responsive, making them ideal for quick turns and navigating tight spaces. Additionally, the Blizzard Zero G 105 offers excellent stability at high speeds, making it a great choice for more aggressive skiers.

Another ski to consider is the Salomon QST 98, which provides a good balance of performance and versatility. It is stable at high speeds and has a quick and responsive feel, making it a great choice for both touring and downhill skiing.

For those looking for a ski that can handle powder, the G3 SEEKr 110 is a great option. It offers excellent float and stability in deep snow, while still providing good responsiveness and quickness.

Overall, when choosing an alpine touring ski for the 2023 season, it is important to consider your own skiing style and the terrain you will be skiing on. Look for a ski that offers a good balance of performance and versatility, and don’t be afraid to try out a few different options before making your final decision.

Understanding Ski Construction and Design

When it comes to choosing the best alpine touring skis for 2023, understanding ski construction and design is crucial. The following factors play a significant role in determining the performance of a ski:

Light and Lightweight

Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing alpine touring skis. Lightweight skis are easier to handle and allow for more efficient movement on the ascent. Manufacturers use various materials to make skis lighter, including carbon fiber, wood cores, and synthetic materials. Read this post to learn more about What Are Skis Made Of.

Metal

Metal layers in ski construction can provide stability and dampness, which are important for high-speed descents and hard snow conditions. However, metal layers add weight to the ski, so it’s important to find a balance between weight and performance.

Width

Ski width is another essential factor to consider when choosing alpine touring skis. Wider skis provide more flotation in deep snow, while narrower skis are more maneuverable on hardpack. The ideal width depends on your skiing style and the conditions you’ll be skiing in.

Tip and Tail Rocker

Tip and tail rocker is a design feature that helps skis perform better in soft snow. The rocker profile lifts the tip and tail of the ski off the snow, allowing for easier turn initiation and better floatation. However, too much rocker can make skis less stable at high speeds.

Carbon Chassis

Carbon fiber is a popular material used in ski construction to provide strength and stiffness while keeping the weight down. Skis with a carbon chassis are often more expensive, but they can provide excellent performance in a variety of conditions.

In summary, understanding ski construction and design is crucial when choosing the best alpine touring skis for 2023. Consider factors like weight, metal layers, width, tip and tail rocker, and carbon chassis to find a ski that meets your needs and skiing style.

Ski Bindings and Boots for Alpine Touring

When it comes to alpine touring, having the right bindings and boots is crucial for both performance and safety. Here are some of the best options for 2023:

Bindings

  • Marker Duke PT: A versatile binding that can handle both resort and backcountry skiing. It features a 6-16 DIN range and an adjustable toe height for customizable performance.
  • Salomon Shift: Another great option for those who want a binding that can handle both resort and backcountry skiing. It features a pin toe and alpine heel, allowing for efficient uphill travel and powerful downhill performance.
  • Fritschi Tecton: A lightweight binding that offers excellent power transmission and retention. It features a unique toe piece that allows for lateral release, reducing the risk of knee injuries.

Boots

  • Salomon MTN Explore: A lightweight boot that is ideal for long tours and steep climbs. It features a customizable fit and a carbon spine for added support and power transmission.
  • Scarpa Maestrale RS: A high-performance boot that is designed for aggressive skiing in the backcountry. It features a carbon-infused Grilamid shell and a Vibram sole for excellent traction on icy terrain.
  • Dynafit Hoji Free: A versatile boot that is suitable for both resort and backcountry skiing. It features a unique “walk mode” that allows for efficient uphill travel and a customizable fit for added comfort.

Backcountry Ski Bindings

For those who are primarily focused on backcountry skiing, there are a few bindings that stand out:

  • Dynafit Radical: A lightweight binding that is designed for efficient uphill travel. It features a low stack height and a wide toe piece for added stability.
  • Marker Kingpin: A reliable binding that offers excellent power transmission and retention. It features a unique toe piece that allows for lateral release, reducing the risk of knee injuries.
  • Salomon MTN Pure: A user-friendly binding that is ideal for those who are new to backcountry skiing. It features a low profile and a simple design for easy use.

Backcountry Ski Boots

When it comes to backcountry ski boots, there are a few key features to look for:

  • Lightweight construction: Backcountry skiing requires a lot of uphill travel, so a lightweight boot is essential.
  • Walk mode: A good backcountry boot should have a walk mode that allows for efficient uphill travel.
  • Customizable fit: A good fit is essential for both performance and comfort, so look for boots that offer a customizable fit.

Some of the best backcountry ski boots for 2023 include:

  • Scarpa F1 LT: A lightweight boot that is designed for fast and efficient uphill travel. It features a customizable fit and a Vibram sole for added traction.
  • La Sportiva Skorpius: A versatile boot that is suitable for both resort and backcountry skiing. It features a customizable fit and a unique “CavoBike Lever” that allows for efficient uphill travel.
  • Atomic Backland Carbon: A high-performance boot that is designed for aggressive skiing in the backcountry. It features a carbon spine and a customizable fit for added support and power transmission.

Considering Options

When it comes to buying alpine touring skis, there are options available for every price point. Here are some things to consider when looking for the best value alpine touring skis in 2023.

Finding the Best Value

When looking for the best value alpine touring skis, it’s important to consider a few factors. First, you’ll want to look for skis that offer a good balance of weight and performance. This will help ensure that you can easily climb uphill while also enjoying a fun and stable descent.

In addition to weight and performance, you’ll also want to consider the construction of the skis. Skis that are made with high-quality materials and construction techniques will typically offer better durability and longevity.

Finally, it’s important to consider the cost of the skis, and more expensive models may offer better performance or durability. By comparing the features and prices of different models, you can find the best value alpine touring skis for your needs.

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the best value alpine touring skis in 2023, there are plenty of options available. By considering factors like weight, performance, construction, and price, you can find the perfect skis for your needs.

Importance of Gear Testing

When it comes to skiing, having the right gear can make all the difference. That’s why gear testing is such an important part of the process. By testing skis in real-world conditions, experts can determine which skis perform the best and which ones are worth investing in.

Gear testing involves taking skis out on the mountain and putting them through their paces. Testers look at a range of factors, including the skis’ stability, responsiveness, and versatility. They also consider how the skis perform in different conditions, such as powder, crud, and hardpack.

Testing skis is important because it allows skiers to make informed decisions about the gear they purchase. By reading reviews and looking at test results, skiers can get a sense of which skis are best suited to their needs and abilities.

It’s also worth noting that not all skis are created equal. Some skis are designed for specific types of skiing, such as backcountry touring or park skiing. By testing skis, experts can determine which skis are best suited to different types of skiing.

In conclusion, gear testing is a crucial part of the skiing process. By testing skis in real-world conditions, experts can determine which skis are worth investing in and which ones are not. This allows skiers to make informed decisions about the gear they purchase and ensures that they have the best possible experience on the mountain.

Conclusion

After extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best alpine touring skis of 2023. These skis have been selected based on their performance, versatility, and durability, as well as their ability to handle a variety of conditions.

Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry skier or just starting out, investing in a high-quality pair of alpine touring skis can make all the difference in your experience. With the right equipment, you can enjoy the freedom and adventure of exploring the mountains on your own terms.

The skis on our list offer a range of features and benefits to suit different preferences and skill levels. From lightweight and nimble options for steep ascents to wider and more stable skis for deep powder, there is something for everyone.

When choosing the right alpine touring skis for you, consider your skiing ability, the type of terrain you’ll be tackling, and your personal preferences for weight, width, and stiffness. It’s also important to invest in high-quality bindings and boots that are compatible with your skis for optimal performance and safety.

Overall, we are confident that the skis on our list are some of the best options available for alpine touring in 2023. We hope that this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect pair of skis to take on your next backcountry adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated 50/50 touring skis for 2023?

The Blizzard Zero G 105, Salomon QST 98, and G3 SEEKr 110 are some of the best 50/50 touring skis for 2023. These skis offer great performance in most snow conditions, are lightweight, and have varying waist widths to suit different skiers’ preferences.

Which are the best crossover backcountry/resort skis?

The Volkl Mantra M5, Salomon QST 106, and Rossignol Soul 7 HD are some of the best crossover backcountry/resort skis for 2023. These skis are versatile and perform well in both backcountry and resort settings.

What are the key differences between touring skis and backcountry skis?

Touring skis are designed for uphill travel and are lightweight, while backcountry skis are designed for downhill performance and are usually heavier. Touring skis also tend to have a narrower waist width and a softer flex than backcountry skis.

What are the best alpine touring skis with bindings included?

The Atomic Backland 107, Salomon MTN Explore 95, and Dynafit Beast 98 are some of the best alpine touring skis with bindings included for 2023. These skis offer great performance and are designed specifically for alpine touring.

Which alpine touring ski package offers the best value for money?

The Fischer Ranger 102 FR, Rossignol Experience 88 Ti, and Salomon QST Lumen 99 are some of the best value-for-money alpine touring ski packages for 2023. These packages include skis, bindings, and sometimes even skins, making them a great choice for those on a budget.

What are the best backcountry ski boots for 2023?

The Scarpa Maestrale XT, Atomic Hawx Ultra XTD 130, and Salomon S/Lab MTN are some of the best backcountry ski boots for 2023. These boots offer great performance and are designed specifically for backcountry skiing.

Where can I find more information on other Ski topics?

Check out our Ski Buyer’s Guide 2023 for all your ski related questions!