Read Our Full 2026 Touring Ski Test and Reviews
For the 2026 season, it’s safe to say there are hardly any truly bad touring skis left—just models designed for different uses and skill levels. Choosing the right ski should be based on your skiing style and objectives, rather than pure downhill performance. A very stiff touring ski built for high speed and aggressive descents won’t suit everyone, while a softer, more accessible model will appeal to most skiers.
Make sure to consider all test criteria—not just how the ski performs on the descent! We’ve tested and compared over 170 pairs of touring skis, which we’ve grouped into four clear categories to help you find your perfect match.
Do you prefer long, lightweight ascents? Or are you more into big descents from the resort? Maybe a bit of both? Whether you’re looking for an ultralight 75 mm-waisted ski for big climbs or a wider 100 mm ski for freeride touring, there’s a model for you.
Before diving into your next gear search, don’t forget to check out our buying guide in our dedicated ski test issue. And don’t miss issue #61, coming in October, with the full 2026 touring ski test and expert advice to help you choose the right skis. In the meantime, download issue #57 for last season’s full review.
BRANDS
ARMADA – ATOMIC – BLACK CROWS – BLACK DIAMOND – BLIZZARD – DECATHLON – DYNAFIT – DYNASTAR – ELAN – FACTION – FISCHER – FIZ– G3 – HAGAN – HEAD – KASTLE – K2 – MAJESTY – MOONLIGHT – MOVEMENT – NORDICA – ROSSIGNOL – SALOMON – SCOTT – TRAB – VOLKL– ZAG
THE BEST TOURING SKIS
TOURING SKI TEST: 70–85MM UNDERFOOT
Ultralight models designed for competition or for skiers looking for a touring ski suited to big days out while saving energy on the ascent.
TOURING SKI TEST: 85–90MM UNDERFOOT
A category that can be described as versatile. These are all-purpose touring skis, primarily intended for 100% touring use, though some models can also handle light freerando. Their width and lightness offer solid uphill performance, while still delivering reliable downhill capabilities.
TOURING SKI TEST: 90–100MM UNDERFOOT
“Wide touring skis that, not so long ago, were meant exclusively for powder but are now becoming increasingly versatile. As weights continue to drop, these skis can be used in all kinds of conditions. The only drawback is that the extra width can be tricky on the ascent, with awkward leverage on hard snow. On the descent, however, they generally offer strong performance across all snow types.
BACKCOUNTRY SKI TEST: TOURING SKIS OVER 100MM WAIST
“A range designed for deep snow. These are fairly specialized touring skis that perform exceptionally well in powder and soft snow, but are more challenging to handle on harder snow, both on the ascent and the descent.
WOMEN’S SKI TOURING TEST
Women’s touring skis are most often adapted versions of the men’s models, usually offered in smaller sizes. Their performance is generally very similar to the men’s versions. In some cases, we test both, but when we don’t, you can confidently refer to the corresponding men’s review—apart from the graphics, the differences are minimal!
WHERE TO BUY TOURING SKIS?
AU VIEUX CAMPEUR – SNOWLEADER – TELEMARK PYRENEES – MONTAZ
2025 Touring Ski Test Video
Watch how the 2025 ski test went, with a look at the conditions on video. The 2026 video is coming soon!
Photos from the Touring Ski Test
