2027 Volkl Mantra 84 W

For 2027, the Volkl Mantra 84 W gets a graphic update but returns otherwise unchanged. This shape of ski can be sometimes difficult to label as it can transition between front side and all-mountain. Since it comes flat, with no system binding, we tend to put it in the all-mountain side, but it just carves so darn well it’s tough to move it over completely. The versatility is decent enough, but the precise nature of the ski keeps it from being super-useful in the bumps and trees but it can function well in chopped groomers or degraded snow conditions. These are highly confident and functional skis for both carving up the trails and being adventurous.

Volkl does not shy away from being unique in their engineering department. The construction is quite sophisticated in this ski, and it all starts with a multi-layer wood core consisting of poplar and beech. What Volkl does that’s different from most is that they place more beech stringers along the edges and more poplar in the middle. This, when combined with the upper titianal frame that also puts more metal over the edges, makes for crazy good edge grip on any type of firm snow. By allowing the central portions of the ski to flex more, the Mantra 84 W has increased torsional flex for better soft snow compliance. The skis also use tailored carbon tips to make getting up on edge just that much quicker and easier—everything about the construction of these skis points to a direct energy transfer. Tester Cindy Morin states that "This Mantra 84 W is quick and playful. The ski has very good turn initiation. The shovel is big enough to cut through groomer cookies and crud. This is a really fun ski and seems to be a blend of the old Secret and the old Kenja."

While the construction of the ski normally takes top-billing, the footprint of the ski is also quite innovative. The profile of the ski is on the flatter side of the spectrum, with minimal camber underfoot to go along with long and low tip and tail rocker. Volkl uses their 3D Radius sidecut in this ski, producing arc splits of 23.5/13.2/21.3-meters in the 163 cm length. This allows for smooth and stable longer carves to go along with super-short turns when you’re at higher edge angles and skiing the center of the ski. Basically, it’s a way for Volkl to ensure that any and all turn shapes and styles are welcome in the Mantra 84 W. In softer snow, the skis are flat enough to stay on top, but they do want to turn. The blend of carbon in the tips and the precision involved makes them eager to be on edge, keeping them from feeling drifty or smeary. Leslie Gauff calls it a "Great ski overall. This is a quicker turning ski than the Mantra 88, and the Kenja which is the older version of this ski. Great carving ski, easy to turn, and very stable for higher speeds on groomed terrain. Suitable for making slalom or GS turns. Super all mountain type ski that is easy to work and turn, has great stability, maneuverability and still has a little playfulness to it."

We love the mix of performance and precision in these skis. These skis work great on the feet of advanced and expert skiers. While the waist width is narrow enough to have progressing intermediates get a start here, it’s generally the build that keeps this ski in the upper end of the performance spectrum. It’s stiff, solid, and ready to rip. Skiers need to be active in order to get the most out of it, and the ski appreciates the input. They deliver a confident and well-rounded performance on a multitude of conditions and terrain.