OUR REVIEW OF THE ATOMIC BACKLAND CARBON
Our complete Atomic Backland carbon ski touring boot review is based on extensive on-snow testing in a variety of backcountry conditions. Discover our detailed analysis of uphill performance, range of motion, comfort, fit, transitions, downhill performance, stiffness, strengths, weaknesses and our full verdict in Ski Rando Magazine.
PRESENTATION OF THE ATOMIC BACKLAND CARBON
A lightweight and performance-oriented ski touring boot
The Atomic Backland Carbon is a ski touring boot designed for skiers looking for a balance between low weight on the ascent, generous range of motion and support on the descent. For the 2026/2027 season, it sits between the new, lighter Backland Carbon UL and the Backland Pro within Atomic’s narrow-fit touring range.
With a stated weight of 1,179 g per boot in size 26/26.5, the Backland Carbon remains particularly light for a versatile ski touring boot. Its carbon-loaded PA shell is combined with a carbon fibre cuff, while Prolite construction is designed to retain structure in key areas while reducing material elsewhere.
74° range of motion for the ascent
Atomic states a generous 74° range of motion, combined with the Frictionless Pivot and Free/Lock 4.0 ski/walk mechanism. The design aims to provide plenty of freedom of movement on the skin track, particularly during long ascents and tours with significant vertical gain. Forward lean can be adjusted to 13°, 15° or 17°, with 15° as the standard setting.
Closure is handled by the Cross Lace 2.0 system, complemented by 7000-series aluminium touring buckles and a 40 mm Cam Strap. The 3D Platinum Tour liner features a breathable construction, Dry Fit foams and Dura Shield reinforcements.
A precise 98 mm fit
The Backland Carbon uses Atomic’s 98 mm Touring Last, classified as Narrow / Low Volume. It is therefore primarily aimed at skiers looking for a close, precise fit. Memory Fit technology nevertheless allows the shell to be customised to better match the skier’s foot.
The boot is equipped with Low Tech inserts and a non-standardised Skywalk sole. Sizes range from 24/24.5 to 30/30.5.
With its low stated weight, carbon fibre cuff and 74° range of motion, the Atomic Backland Carbon is, on paper, clearly positioned for versatile ski touring and long backcountry days, with more downhill support than the new 982 g Backland Carbon UL.
FEATURES
■ Flex: 110
■ Fastening: 2 BUCKLES + STRAP
■ Interchangeable soles: NO
■ Metatarsal width: 98mm
■ Weight: 2358g
■ Price: 800€
WHERE TO BUY THIS BOOT?
OTHER ATOMIC TESTS
OUR TEST OF THE ATOMIC BACKLAND CARBON UL SHOE MANUFACTURER’S REVIEW The top model of the Backland UL series, the Backland Carbon UL from Atomic is a lightweight touring shoe designed for efficient ascent, quick transitions, and solid skiing performance. The Frictionless Pivot system provides the freedom of movement needed …
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OUR TEST OF THE ATOMIC BACKLAND EXPERT SHOE MANUFACTURER’S OPINION The perfect choice for the touring skier looking for the ideal balance between uphill efficiency and downhill reliability, the Atomic Backland Expert does it all. Built with Prolite, featuring a frictionless pivot and a fiberglass shell, this shoe is also …
OUR TEST OF THE ATOMIC BACKLAND PRO UL SHOE MANUFACTURER’S REVIEW The Backland Pro UL from Atomic is simply the best value among all the shoes in the Backland UL family, fast and light. The carbon-loaded shell offers solid alpine skiing performance, and the Frictionless Pivot and Free / Lock …
OUR TEST OF THE ATOMIC BACKLAND PRO SL SHOE MANUFACTURER’S REVIEW Combining the best features of the Backland UL with those of the Backland, Atomic’s Backland Pro SL offers powerful downhill performance while allowing for quick transitions. Equipped with the Speed Strap collar closure system that integrates the buckle and …