Skis · Alpine Touring (AT) / Backcountry Skis

How much should my AT skis weigh?

Weight depends on your touring objectives. For ski mountaineering and fitness tours, aim for under 3000g per pair. For all-around backcountry use, 3000–3400g is the sweet spot. For backcountry freeride where downhill performance is the priority, 3400–4000g is acceptable. Going over 4000g per pair means you're essentially skiing a resort ski with touring bindings—the uphill penalty is significant. A good rule of thumb: if you're questioning whether the ski is too heavy on your first tour, it probably is.

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