2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W

For 2027, the Volkl Mantra 88 W gets a graphics refresh but returns otherwise unchanged. The Mantra 88 W brings all of that power and grace and puts it into the next generation of ripping skiers. With a flatter overall profile and a very sophisticated build, the Mantra 88 W is a solid on-trail carver with modest off-trail aspirations. It’s fine in the bumps and the trees and can plow through crud and chop, but there are more playful and creative skis out there in the world. This one, though, is so incredibly responsive and precise and works great on the feet of active and confident skiers. It certainly wants to find the bottom of whatever surface you're on and start turning immediately, for better or for worse.

As usual, the engineering and sophistication of the Mantra construction is a huge part of the story. Volkl uses their multi-layer wood core in this ski, placing more beech stringers along the sides and more poplar stringers in the center. They use their tailored titanal frame to emphasize the control on the edges. When the metal is combined with the beech, it shows Volkl’s commitment to edge grip and carving control. It’s a stiff ski, too, with a strong flex that does require some skill to bend. When you do, though, it’s a lot of energy that builds up in these skis. In the 163 cm length, the Mantra 88 W sits on the scale at 1710 grams per ski—heavy enough to make quick work of adverse conditions but still light enough to create some mobility and agility. Tester Megan Papineau notes: "I do love this ski, it’s an aggressive ski that works hard and has me charging through carving turns. I would say it lacks some versatility in that you’d have to work really hard to get much play from it but if you want to rip groomers it’s your ski."

Among other 88's, the Mantra 88 W has a much flatter overall profile, giving it a unique look from the side. At 88 mm underfoot, we do expect versatility to come along with precision. This ski blends those attributes reasonably well, but it does fall more on the precise side of the spectrum. Featuring Volkl’s 3D Radius Sidecut, you can make clean carves in a multitude of shapes and styles. This triple radius creates the capacity for short carves at higher edge angles without compromising stability at speed in shallower angles. Overall, it’s a very intuitive way to shape a ski and it totally works. Volkl also uses long and low rocker in both tips and tails to accompany low camber. This flat profile enhances the use of the 3D Radius and makes it simpler to create all sorts of carved turns with relative ease. Tester Colleen Fitzgerald states that "This ski feels stable and responsive underfoot. It was playful but reliable. It held up well in the hardpack and and felt predictable in its support at high speeds. It is a great all-mountain ski that likes to rip! It could probably handle a lot of conditions and is a real trooper."

Due to the precise feel and sturdy overall character, this ski is an advanced and expert ski for sure. It has a very high-performance ceiling and works great on the feet of skiers who have a strong skillset, sturdy legs, and relatively stiff and proper fitting boots. This is not a lazy ski—it prefers to be activated and skied thusly. While the precise nature of the ski keeps it from being super-fun in an off-trail capacity, the flatter profile does make it feel like it can be swiveled around with relative ease compared to the stiffness and weight. Be prepared for an instantaneous engagement and a confident ride throughout any turn shape or style.