Volkl Mantra is an all-mountain ski capable of carving on piste at high speeds, floating through powder, and cutting through crud. Completely redesigned in 2019, the Volkl Mantra M5 changed from a fully rockered profile to having a camber underfoot. which makes this version more capable of blasting through crud and ripping on hardpack. The sidecut was also increased in 2019 for a shorter turn radius with more energy and pop. The Titanal Frame Technology keeps these skis smooth and stable no matter what your speed is. The P-Tex 2100 Base provides great gliding characteristics and increases the overall durability of the skis. The Multi-layer woodcore -- constructed from a mix of beech and poplar -- keeps these skis lightweight and poppy. The Volkl Mantra has long been crowned the “Crud King,” and the ability to absorb the impact of skiing through the crud is a trademark of a true all mountain ski.
Expert Notes
The Mantra has been a household name for years now. Currently on the third generation of the Mantra, Volkl has essentially perfected the design for this line of skis. The original Mantra – pre-2015 – was best at ripping on hard snow, but still held its own off piste. The second generation Mantras – 2015-2018 – changed up some bits and pieces and moved away from its hard snow capabilities and more towards being a back country ski. We’d argue that it may have shifted a little too much, and was no longer a great option for hard pack. The newest generation – The M5 – has taken steps back toward the original Mantra and combines the best of both worlds. Whether it’s blasting through crud, ripping groomers, or floating in the backcountry, these latest Mantras can handle it all.
