Skis · Alpine Touring (AT) / Backcountry Skis

Do I need a different width AT ski than my resort ski?

Not necessarily—many skiers choose similar widths for both. However, backcountry snow is often softer and less tracked than resort snow, so you may want a slightly wider ski for the backcountry (e.g., 100mm AT vs. 90mm resort). Conversely, if you ski a very wide resort ski (110mm+) for powder, you might go narrower for touring to save weight and improve firm-snow performance. The 95–105mm range is the most versatile for backcountry use.

Related gear types

If this answer nudged you toward a different style, these guides compare specs and trade-offs.

All-Mountain Skis

$350 – $950

dominant

Versatile skis designed to handle the widest range of resort conditions, from groomed runs to light powder.

Waist width 85–105mmRocker-camber-rocker or tip rocker profilesMedium turn radius (15–20m)

Freeride / Big Mountain Skis

$500 – $1200

common

Wide, stable skis built for charging steep, ungroomed terrain and variable off-piste snow conditions.

Waist width 100–115mmSignificant tip and tail rockerStiff flex for stability

Nordic Backcountry / Touring Skis

$200 – $600

niche

Wider, more rugged nordic skis for off-track exploration and light backcountry touring.

Waist width 60–80mmPartial or full metal edgesWaxless bases common