2026 Volkl Mantra 102 W

While the 2026 Volkl Mantra 102 W gets a new name and graphic, it remains the same ski as we’ve had in the Secret 102 from last year. This way, the branding is more cohesive within Volkl’s line, and since the skis are basically unisex except for lengths and looks, it makes sense for them all to be Mantra. These skis are strong, sturdy, and ready to rip. The Mantra 102 W is an amazing carver for the width and can handle crud and chop with the best of them. By using sophisticated construction technology and innovative shaping protocols, these skis are unique feeling and totally awesome at plowing through adversity with confidence.

Built with a multi-layer wood core consisting of poplar and beech, these skis emphasize smoothness and power. The beech is placed under the metal frame parts that run along the sides of the ski and add grip and cohesiveness to the edges. By placing the poplar in the middle of the ski, where it’s unencumbered by the frame parts, the ski can be more torsionally flexible, creating more snow contact. The skis also use tailored carbon tips to make sure the initiation phase is crisp and the swing weight is lighter. Overall, though, these are not light skis, sitting on the scale at 2140 g/ski in the 177 cm length. Tester Lauren Morton notes that she “enjoyed being able to get it onto an edge in most terrain. Not light or playful but good to cut through most stuff.”

Volkl uses a flatter overall profile than most skis, relying more on the construction to power the ski rather than energy built into the camber. Additionally, Volkl uses this flatter footprint in order to hook into the 3D Radius sidecut. By using three different radii throughout the ski, longer turns are smooth and stable while shorter turns are crisp and powerful. It’s a natural way to go about carving a ski, and while you don’t have to think too hard about the turn shape and style, it’s fun to go about it in various methods. The rocker profile is low and long as a result, and it’s easy to slide around on the skis as a result. Once you get them up on edge, though, the power band activates, and these skis start to light it up.

Because it’s a strong, hefty, and sturdy ski, it’s much better suited to advanced and expert skiers who don’t mind a bit of a challenge. When you put a lot into it, you get a ton back, but you do have to be on it more often than not—this is not a lazy ski. Also, if you are in the middle of the sizing structure, it’s okay to go shorter here as the skis do not lose stability at speed. Instead, they get a boost in precision and reactivity—two of the most impressive parts of this wide-bodied all-mountain ski.