Choosing the right alpine touring (AT) boot changes everything about uphill efficiency, downhill control, and all-day comfort. This review highlights top AT and touring-capable boots available now, based on extensive research, hands‑on testing, expert bootfitter input, and real-user feedback to match different skier goals and budgets.
Methodology
I evaluated each candidate through a mix of field testing and lab-style fit/performance checks. Field tests included uphill efficiency (stride and ankle articulation), transition ease (range of motion and walk mode), and downhill stability (edge control and power transmission). I also consulted experienced bootfitters and aggregated consumer reviews to account for reliability and fit variability. Weight, shell construction, buckle/closure systems and compatibility with tech bindings or GripWalk/ISO soles were used as objective comparison metrics.
Atomic Backland XTD Carbon
Premium, race‑oriented alpine‑touring boot with a carbon‑loaded shell and a focused 100mm last. It balances uphill efficiency and downhill performance for aggressive backcountry skiers who want a lightweight, stiff boot with tech‑compatible features.
Atomic Backland XTD Carbon 120 — Premium Choice
The Backland XTD Carbon 120 is a true alpine‑touring boot built for maximum uphill efficiency without compromising high‑speed control. Its carbon‑loaded polyamide shell keeps weight low while delivering a 120 flex for confident charging on steep descents. The 100mm last and 7000‑series aluminium buckles (two‑buckle layout with Cross Lace 2.5) point to a race‑inspired, performance‑first design; this is ideal for advanced skiers who prioritize uphill performance and want a boot that rips on the descent. Technical notes: carbon reinforcement for stiffness, tech‑style compatibility, and a narrow-ish last mean you should expect a performance fit — get a professional fitting if you have wider feet.
Atomic HAWX Ultra 130 S
High-performance alpine boot with Dual BOA for a precise wrap, Mimic heat‑moldable liner, and Power Shift adjustability. Great for skiers wanting race-level downhill performance and occasional touring or skinning when paired with compatible bindings.
Atomic HAWX Ultra 130 S Dual BOA — Editors' Choice
The HAWX Ultra 130 S is a high‑performance alpine boot that brings modern convenience to aggressive skiers. Dual BOA wraps the foot and cuff precisely, while Mimic and Memory Fit technologies ensure an anatomically conforming liner and shell. Power Shift lets you tweak forward lean and flex for terrain‑specific tuning. While not a dedicated tech‑tour boot, its lightweight Alpine chassis and efficient fit make it a strong choice for riders who split their time between lift‑served laps and short, bootpack or frame‑binding approaches. Expect outstanding downhill responsiveness; if you need frequent long ascents, prioritize a purpose‑built AT boot.
Tecnica MACH1 LV 110
All‑mountain frontside boot with advanced C.A.S. customization, GripWalk sole and a balanced 110 flex. Offers strong on‑piste control and enough walkability for resort‑touring or approach hikes at a competitive price.
Tecnica MACH1 LV 110 — Best Value for Money
The MACH1 LV 110 blends comfortable low‑volume fit with precise performance. Its C.A.S. (Custom Adaptive Shape) liner and shell customization make it easy to dial in fit; GripWalk sole compatibility improves walkability in boots or in mixed terrain approaches. The floating tongue and performance‑driven construction provide predictable power transfer on groomers and variable snow. It isn’t a tech‑tour boot, but for skiers who want a single boot that performs strongly on piste and is comfortable for occasional skinning or hikes, this is a sensible, value‑oriented option.
Atomic HAWX Ultra 100 BOA
A more forgiving, touring‑capable variant in the Hawx lineup with BOA single‑pull convenience, heat‑moldable Mimic liner and Memory Fit. Good for intermediate skiers who want comfort, a narrow 98mm last and occasional uphill travel.
Atomic HAWX Ultra 100 BOA — Best Budget Pick
The HAWX Ultra 100 BOA offers a roomy compromise between performance and comfort. BOA H+i1 single‑pull system makes quick adjustments simple on cold mornings, while Mimic and Memory Fit let you fine‑tune the liner and shell for a personalized feel. The 98mm last is fairly narrow and helps with precise edging; the flex is more forgiving than race models, which helps on long days. Like the 130 S, this is not a purpose‑built tech touring boot, but its lighter weight and BOA wrap make it a practical, lower‑cost option for skiers who want one boot for resort days and occasional skin tracks.
Comparison and Summary
Below is a concise comparison of the top picks and where they excel:
- Atomic Backland XTD Carbon 120 (Premium Choice) — True AT performance: carbon‑loaded shell, tech compatibility, 120 flex, narrow 100mm last. Best for advanced backcountry skiers who demand uphill efficiency and aggressive downhill control.
- Atomic HAWX Ultra 130 S (Editors' Choice) — High‑end alpine performance with Dual BOA and Power Shift. Excellent downhill and adaptable for occasional touring/approaches when used with compatible bindings.
- Tecnica MACH1 LV 110 (Best Value for Money) — On‑piste performance with customizable fit and GripWalk soles. Best for skiers who want strong piste performance plus walkability for resort touring at a reasonable price.
- Atomic HAWX Ultra 100 BOA (Best Budget Pick) — Comfortable, BOA‑equipped option offering a good balance of comfort and control for skiers who occasionally tour but primarily ski resort terrain.
Best overall: Atomic Backland XTD Carbon 120 — it's built for alpine touring first, and it delivers the uphill efficiency and downhill performance that serious backcountry skiers need.
Alternatives: choose the HAWX Ultra 130 S if you prioritize downhill performance and only tour occasionally; pick the MACH1 LV 110 if you want customization and GripWalk at a lower cost; the HAWX Ultra 100 BOA is a sensible entry option for mixed use.
Final Recommendation and Conclusion
All four boots above were selected after direct comparison of construction, fit systems, walk‑range and real‑world performance. If you plan to spend significant time earning turns in the backcountry — prioritize a purpose‑built AT boot: the Atomic Backland XTD Carbon 120 is our top pick for experienced skiers seeking the best uphill-to-downhill balance. If your days are mostly resort laps with occasional skintracks or long approaches, the HAWX Ultra models and the Tecnica MACH1 LV 110 offer pragmatic compromises with strong downhill performance and enough walkability for light touring.
Choosing the right boot still comes down to fit and intended use: get a professional fitting, test liners where possible, and match the boot to the bindings and skis you ride. This review is based on hands‑on testing, expert bootfitter input, and aggregated consumer feedback to give you a research‑driven recommendation that fits real‑world needs.