2027 Volkl Mantra 88

The 2027 Volkl Mantra 88 gets a graphics refresh for this year but otherwise returns unchanged. This ski is an amazing option for high-test skiers who love the feeling of endless edge grip and decent soft snow versatility. The Mantra 88 is a powerful, strong, and grippy ski that handles the iciest conditions possible for this width—it's an impressive firm snow feel with tremendous rebound and energy. By flattening the overall profile compared to many other 88's, the skis create a smooth and cohesive character, but the stiffness keeps them from being easily accessible for intermediate skiers looking to improve and progress. These skis are very fun on the feet of the correct skier but can feel demanding otherwise.

The engineering and sophistication when it comes to construction is on another level with Volkl. By using a multi-layer wood core consisting of poplar and beech, they put more emphasis on the edges by increasing the amount of beech in that zone. The poplar creates more flex and ease of use in the mid-section of the ski, making it easier to ski in multi-dimensional snow. Under the core, we get a full sheet of titanal, and on top we get Volkl’s Tailored Titanal Frame. This consists of three separate metal pieces which work together to allow for proper flex and grip. They keep the ski damp and stable. In the tips, we see tailored carbon tips—this inlay of carbon stringers provides improved precision through the entry phase of the turn while keeping the swing weight lower. Tester Matthew McManus notes that " While an all mountain ski, these felt very directional and powerful. They were moderately quick edge to edge, taking a moment to engage when angled over, but did so predictably. They held an edge well on a very firm day, making nice carving turns. They felt damp but perhaps a bit heavy underfoot, as well. These would be good front side skis that also can power through likely some heavy crud, as they want to track through their turn very stably. Did not ski in bumps so cannot comment directly on that, but imagine that they would be good for those wanting to take a somewhat direct line through moguls. They required staying on top of them and reward an engaged and perhaps more technical style."

As interesting as the construction is, the footprint of the ski also stands out in a crowded field of 88's. The flatter overall profile allows for a smoother feel with more ski connected to the snow. The shape allows for crisper and rounder turns which is impressive given the ski’s already stellar reputation and history for clean arcs. Because of the narrower shape overall, Volkl’s 4 Radius Drive does not filter into this ski as it still relies on the 3D Radius Sidecut. With turn radii splits of 29.2/16.2/25.5 meters in the 177 cm length, the skis feel like a slalom ski underfoot while higher speeds are easier to achieve at lower edge angles in the tips and tails. Volkl uses a flatter profile and long tip and tail rocker to unlock the multi-radius sidecut. It works well and provides a smooth and predictable feel overall. While these skis certainly excel in an on-trail format, their off-trail performance takes a bit more work due to the stiffness and weight. Tester Martin Herold calls it " Amazing! Really fun all-round ski. The Voelkl Mantra is giving enough stability to feel secure even on Vermont icy patches, is playful to take either small or large turns and the newer softer front feels great. Really great all-round ski. For lots of powder I would consider the 96. The 88 is the right mix for anything to come and is my preferred ski out of the set tested. Great to some powder, awesome grip on the ice and fun if the woods are on the menu."

These skis have a very precise and powerful feel, especially on ice and firm snow. While this isn’t an ideal choice for everyone, especially skiers who are more creative and playful, it is a fantastic ski for hard chargers who like to push the speed limit and the edge angles. If you’re on it, then you can get some decent bump and tree performance, but overall, this ski is meant to carve, and with a wider bodied platform, you get excellent balance and poise as a result. In softer snow, it fights to find the bottom because it just wants to turn so bad.