Ascent under your own power, descent with full control – modern touring skis for women combine lightness with impressive skiing safety. This season once again demonstrates how skis specifically tailored to the needs of female tourers perform. Our test in the Hohe Tauern National Park reveals consistently high quality standards.
Light and reliable companions for mountain adventures
Touring skis in the Women’s category with waist widths of 82 to 89 millimeters are characterized by optimized weight and specially adapted geometry. Every layer of these models is carefully designed – from the light ascent to the confident descent. Whether for long summit tours, spontaneous after-work outings, or varying snow conditions: these skis handle all scenarios.
Touring Skis Put to the Test
The test took place under ideal conditions in Heiligenblut. The focus was particularly on downhill performance: How precisely does the ski respond on firmed snow? How much confidence does it provide during long, flowing turns or steeper sections? The handling of the skins was also evaluated – but the real highlight remains the descent.
Target group: Ambitious female tourers seeking versatility, safety, and genuine skiing enjoyment
Winner: Kästle BIAFO 88

With an outstanding 51.0 points and a rating of “excellent,” the Kästle BIAFO 88 clearly secures the top position. The model sets the highest standards: it offers maximum control, excellent stability, and precise edge grip both on the ascent and descent. With impressive scores for long and short turns, it particularly delights sportily ambitious female tourers. A well-deserved test winner for anyone who prioritizes performance and skiing enjoyment.
| Criterion | Ascent / Descent |
|---|---|
| Handling, skins | 8.0 / 10 |
| Long turns | 8.6 / 10 |
| Short turns | 8.6 / 10 |
| Stability | 8.6 / 10 |
| Edge grip | 8.6 / 10 |
| Overall impression | 8.6 / 10 |
| Overall score | 51.0 / 60 excellent |
2nd place: Nordica Unlimited 88 (SnowStyle Gold)

With 49.9 points and a rating of “excellent,” the Nordica Unlimited 88 impresses just behind the leader. The model excels both on the ascent and descent with remarkable qualities. Its notable stability and precise control stand out – it shows full strength on long turns. Even in varying snow conditions, it remains versatile and reliable thanks to solid edge grip. A top model for ambitious female tourers and a well-deserved Gold winner in the Design Contest.
| Criterion | Ascent / Descent |
|---|---|
| Handling, skins | 8.0 / 10 |
| Long turns | 8.9 / 10 |
| Short turns | 7.7 / 10 |
| Stability | 8.9 / 10 |
| Edge grip | 8.3 / 10 |
| Overall impression | 8.1 / 10 |
| Overall score | 49.9 / 60 excellent |
3rd place: Fischer Transalp 86 CTI WS (SnowStyle Bronze)

With 49.1 points and a rating of “excellent,” the Fischer Transalp 86 CTI WS completes the winner’s podium. The model combines effortless ascent capabilities with stable downhill performance. It responds precisely and provides a confident feel in any terrain – for both long and short turns. With balanced handling and strong stability, it appeals especially to versatile female tourers. A reliable mountain partner and a well-deserved Bronze winner in the Design Contest.
| Criterion | Ascent / Descent |
|---|---|
| Handling, skins | 7.9 / 10 |
| Long turns | 8.0 / 10 |
| Short turns | 8.3 / 10 |
| Stability | 8.6 / 10 |
| Edge grip | 8.0 / 10 |
| Overall impression | 8.3 / 10 |
| Overall score | 49.1 / 60 excellent |
Overview: Test Results Touring Ski Women
| Place | Ski Model | Design Award | Score | Rating | Price (RRP)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kästle BIAFO 88 | - | 51.0 / 60 | excellent | €799.00 |
| 2 | Nordica Unlimited 88 | SnowStyle Gold | 49.9 / 60 | excellent | €649.99 |
| 3 | Fischer Transalp 86 CTI WS | SnowStyle Bronze | 49.1 / 60 | excellent | €700.00 |
| 4 | Hagan Core Carbon 89 Lite | - | 48.0 / 60 | excellent | €699.00 |
| 5 | Atomic Backland 88 W | - | 47.4 / 60 | very good | €599.99 |
| 6 | Völkl Rise Above 88 W | - | 47.3 / 60 | very good | €650.00 |
| 7 | Salomon MTN 86 Carbon | - | 44.3 / 60 | very good | €630.00 |
| 8 | Blizzard Zero G 088 W | - | 43.6 / 60 | very good | €700.00 |
| 9 | Elan Ripstick Tour 88 W | SnowStyle Silver | 41.7 / 60 | good | €649.95 |
>> Detailed ski test results can be found for each linked ski model




