Those looking to escape the daily hustle and explore the untouched mountain world will find the ideal companion in modern touring skis. The models in the Men’s category combine lightness on the ascent with reliable downhill performance. Our latest test reveals just how diverse the offerings have become.
Lightweight partners for real adventures
Touring skis in the Men’s category are versatile and characterized by their reduced weight. This conserves energy on longer ascents – whether on ambitious multi-hour tours or spontaneous after-work outings. With waist widths of 86 to 91 millimeters, they offer a balanced combination of agility on the ascent and safety on the descent.
Heiligenblut as an optimal test location
The test took place under optimal conditions in Heiligenblut at the Großglockner, within the impressive Hohe Tauern National Park. The terrain provided ideal conditions – from relaxed ascents to technically demanding descents. Not only were skiing characteristics and edge grip evaluated, but also the handling of the climbing skins. The results show that the quality of this category is consistently high.
Target group: Tourers who want to combine easier ascents with downhill safety
Winner: Kästle TX88

With 46.5 points and a rating of “very good,” the Kästle TX88 secures the top position. It combines remarkably low weight with absolute precision in skiing. On the ascent, it impresses with track-accurate glide and reliable grip. Downhill, its qualities fully emerge: stable running characteristics, precise edge grip, and balanced flex – whether on firn or in powder. A ski for ambitious tourers who demand maximum performance. Bronze in the Design Contest underscores its well-rounded overall concept.
| Criterion | Ascent / Descent |
|---|---|
| Handling, skins | 7.7 / 10 |
| Long turns | 8.1 / 10 |
| Short turns | 7.7 / 10 |
| Stability | 7.6 / 10 |
| Edge grip | 7.5 / 10 |
| Overall impression | 7.9 / 10 |
| Overall score | 46.5 / 60 very good |
2nd place: Hagan Core Carbon 89

With 44.7 points and a rating of “very good,” the Hagan Core Carbon 89 rightfully takes second place. The model presents itself as a sporty all-rounder with versatile character. On the ascent, the Hagan proves reliable with efficient management and energy-saving handling. On the descent, it impresses with dynamic presence, stable skiing characteristics, and secure edge grip – an ideal combination for various types of terrain. Tight passages as well as wide turns in open terrain are a joy with this ski.
| Criterion | Ascent / Descent |
|---|---|
| Handling, skins | 7.4 / 10 |
| Long turns | 7.5 / 10 |
| Short turns | 7.4 / 10 |
| Stability | 7.2 / 10 |
| Edge grip | 7.5 / 10 |
| Overall impression | 7.7 / 10 |
| Overall score | 44.7 / 60 very good |
3rd place: Fischer Transalp 86 CTI

The Fischer Transalp 86 CTI scores 42.3 points with a rating of “very good.” The model combines robustness with notable skiing comfort for longer touring days. Even on the ascent, it scores points with easy skin management and reliable handling on demanding routes. On the descent, the Transalp delivers smooth skiing and secure edge engagement. A ski that performs confidently in all types of terrain and instills trust in the skier – perfect for multi-hour tours.
| Criterion | Ascent / Descent |
|---|---|
| Handling, skins | 7.6 / 10 |
| Long turns | 6.7 / 10 |
| Short turns | 6.8 / 10 |
| Stability | 6.7 / 10 |
| Edge grip | 7.4 / 10 |
| Overall impression | 7.1 / 10 |
| Overall score | 42.3 / 60 very good |
All Test Results for Touring Ski Men
| Rank | Ski model | Design Award | Score | Rating | Price (RRP)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kästle TX88 | SnowStyle Bronze | 46.5 / 60 | very good | €899.00 |
| 2 | Hagan Core Carbon 89 | - | 44.7 / 60 | very good | €699.00 |
| 3 | Fischer Transalp 86 CTI | - | 42.3 / 60 | very good | €700.00 |
| 4 | Blizzard Zero G 088 | - | 41.8 / 60 | good | €700.00 |
| 5 | Elan Ripstick Tour 88 | - | 41.6 / 60 | good | €649.95 |
| 6 | Nordica Unlimited 88 | SnowStyle Silver | 41.5 / 60 | good | €649.99 |
| 7 | Atomic Backland 88 | SnowStyle Gold / SnowStyle of the Year | 40.7 / 60 | good | €599.99 |
| 8 | Völkl Rise Above 88 | - | 40.5 / 60 | good | €650.00 |
| 9 | Salomon MTN 91 Carbon | - | 38.1 / 60 | good | €700.00 |
>> Detailed ski test results can be found for each linked model




