The Volkl Mantra 102: A bigger badder M6?
Note: the 2021-2022 Volkl Mantra features new art, but it is the same ski structurally as the previous two versions (2019-2020, 2020-2021). This review was originally published in April 2019.
Field Notes
Groomers
From Brian: “Unsurprisingly this thing absolutely rips on groomers. It’s easy to get on edge even at its 102 width, and the metal in the titanal frame gives it some bomber power. Speed limit? What speed limit?
From Zack: “Yeah. It’s fast.”
Bumps and Trees
Shop for the Volkl Mantra 102
Powder and Mixed Snow
Downside
With lightweight freeride skis on the rise across the industry, the Volkl Mantra 102 is not one of them. For the weight, you do get stability and power. But after a day of bump-crushing at Mary Jane, you’ll be feeling it.
From Zack: “The skis feel kind of clunky. They definitely need to be skied hard.”
Bottom Line
Introduced a year after the M5 stormed onto the scene, the Volkl Mantra 102 adds a wider option to the line. Long-time Mantra fans will be psyched—this ski could remind them of earlier versions but with a more refined build.
From Brian: “Rad Dads who ski out West will find an awesome one ski quiver that walks the line between being aggressive but not overly demanding.”
Check our brand previews for information on more 2021-2022 gear.
