With a fresh graphic and updated name, the 2027 Mindbender 90 brings the lighter, friendlier construction of the previous version forward into the 2027 lineup, giving a solid and reliable option for skiers who don't want or need a metal-laminate ski. K2's Spectral Braid and Aspen Microblock core do the heavy lifting here, creating a platform that's easygoing and 100% fun.

Why we like it:

Cuts through a problem a lot of women's all-mountain skis run into: metal skis can feel heavy and demanding, especially for lighter skiers, but most non-metal skis lack composure when conditions get rough. Spectral Braid lets K2 tune torsion and flex independently along the ski, which produces a non-metal ride that still feels like a real all-mountain ski.

Who it's for:

Intermediate to advanced women skiers who want a ski that progresses with them. Lighter skiers and anyone who finds metal skis fatiguing will appreciate the easier feel.

Highlights:

Construction here is fundamentally different from the metal Mindbender W skis. Aspen Microblock construction in the core uses a mosaic of small aspen blocks instead of wider stringers, producing a smoother, more consistent flex than typical lightweight builds. Around that, Spectral Braid wraps the core with a variable-angle fiber weave that tunes torsional stiffness without the weight of metal. Stance Forward construction adapts the shape and flex to women's biomechanics. There's no titanal anywhere, which is the whole point. The 90mm waist is a versatile resort width, and a relatively short turn radius keeps the ski feeling quick. A sintered base rounds out the build.

Things to consider:

High-speed charging in chunky snow isn't this ski's wheelhouse. Without metal damping, it can chatter when conditions get rough. Skiers who want a more authoritative ride should look at the 88 W or 96 W.

Fit & sizing considerations:

True to length. Lighter skiers can confidently size down.