Hi. I am just getting geared up for tele. I got the scarpa women's t2 boot. I hear this is the binding I need. Why would one need the tour version of this binding? Now for the skis. I am about 5'6" and 112lbs. I want something fat and about 163ish. Any suggestions. Why is tele setup so complex? I've been assured it will be worth the effort. BTW, I have the backcountry in mind -- that's the point, right?

atomic kalias cheap light powerful (but more forgiving than most atomics) and fairly fat. good quiver of one

Tour or no tour, the 7TM is heavy, but I still prefer the reliable release mechanism. Weight is where you pay the piper. If I was restricted to a 1 ski quiver (I'm not) the Icelantic Nomad would get the nod. Stable on pack, great with champagne, rules in the mank/mashed potatoes/concrete and avalanche debris. Forget ice. This ski is light enough to balance out the weight gain from 7TMs..... I also like Volkl Gotamas (very light with freight train stability) but the Nomads are fatter and in the length you desire (168 cm or shorter [156 cm]). Otherwise prepare to be waterboarded.

if you have backcountry in mind, the tour is the way to go. let's the binding pivot freely and has almost no resistance. makes a huge difference touring. think of taking full strides instead of a shuffle steps.