2026 Volkl Mantra 84

Volkl has a new 84 for the 2026 season and it falls under the Mantra name. While the Kanjo was always a solid option for advanced skiers looking for light and energetic performance, the Blaze 86 caused some overlap, pushing it out the door. The Mantra 84 filled those shoes and then some. By featuring the same build and overall style of the Mantra 88, the new 84 brings an energetic performance to an all-mountain realm. Skis in the mid-80's are tough to pin down as being in one category or the other. Since the Mantra 84 shares principles with the wider skis in the Mantra range, it does make sense here to place more of an all-mountain title to go along with this ski. This does not take away from its amazing on-piste character.

Built with a multi-layer wood core made from poplar and beech, this ski is sturdy and strong. Volkl doubles up on the emphasis on the edges due to the placement of the titanal frame. The metal over the beech along the sides provides smooth and predictable power—and it feels that way on the snow. In addition, we get a full titanal layer below the core and tailored carbon tips. The front of the ski is very responsive and crisp, bringing a lot of predictability to the initiation phase of the turn. In the 177 cm length, the ski sits on the scale at 1910 g/ski. Tester Bob St.Pierre states that “This is a crisp and active ski with a lot of precision to give. It has to be earned, though, as you can't just saddle up and expect the ski to do its own thing--it prefers to be driven, and by an experienced pilot.”

Again, 84 mm is a bit of a middle ground between front side and all-mountain. The skis carve incredibly well for being part of an all-mountain and even freeride lineup, so based on performance, it’s simple to put them in that range, but they just work so well on groomers. Volkl uses a long and low rocker profile in the tips and tails to allow full access to the 3D Radius drive. This ski uses similar measurements as the Mantra 88, with a radii split of 29.2/16.2/25.5-meter arcs. Bob continues, noting that “This 84 works best on smooth terrain, and the firmer the better. It's very sharp and likes to be in a carved turn. Due to the stiffness, if the snow gets softer, it's not as much fun as it tends to deflect and bang around a bit.” The precise feel does make it feel a bit catchy on softer snow as the ski really wants to turn.

This ski is all about energy and rebound. It’s fine in the moguls and can handle some trees, but for the most part, this is an excellent on-piste carving ski for advanced and expert skiers. Built with precision and power in mind, we love the Mantra 84’s confident feel and sturdy style. If you’re looking for a quick and agile ski that can stand up to the rigors of aggressive skiing, this Mantra 84 is a very welcome addition to the Mantra line.