2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Model Year	Product Page	Ski Test Results	Chairlift Chat
2027	2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis—Skis with bindings	2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W	—
2026	2026 Volkl Mantra 88 Women's Skis—Skis with bindings	2026 Volkl Mantra 88 W	—

Megan submitted 2 test cards — select one:

tester:

Megan Papineau

Ability: Expert
Height: 5’1”
Weight: 122
Days / Year: 30
Age: 39
Years Skiing: 36

Former racer trying to hang responsibly with Jeff

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

163 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe, Perry Merrill, firm, loose granular.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

I was surprised after skiing this ski to see it was an 163, it felt much longer.

Scores

Floatation:5/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:4/10

Edge Grip:10/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

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.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Steep, firm, groomers.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

I can’t imagine a beginner or even an intermediate skier really enjoying this ski; if you work hard it’s very high performing but you gotta lay it over confidently.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

Also, she is very pretty.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Lauren Morton

Ability: Expert
Height: 5’4”
Weight: 130
Days / Year: 30
Age: 37
Years Skiing: 30+

Happy to ski any terrain and like to make turns

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

163 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Frozen granular on Perry Merril.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

Felt true to size.

Scores

Floatation:6/10

Stability:10/10

Quickness:9/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:10/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

This is the ski for today. Love the stability on firm and mixed terrain. Felt super stable going at speed.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Firm and fast terrain.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Strong advanced skiers. This ski needs to be piloted.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

Love.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Martin Herold

Ability: Advanced Intermediate
Height: 5/4/2026
Weight: 68
Days / Year: 20
Age: 45
Years Skiing: 12

Fun

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

156 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe - New England skiing.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

Too short.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:5/10

Playfulness:4/10

Forgiveness:5/10

Edge Grip:5/10

Versatility:5/10

Overall:5/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

It was too short but I loved the bigger version.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Colleen FitzGerald

Ability: Advanced Intermediate
Height: 5’5
Weight: 135
Days / Year: 25
Age: 37
Years Skiing: 15

Fun, like short and long turns, some bumps, glades, sometimes like to push speed otherwise chill

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

163 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe gondola groomers, hardpack, some ice crud.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

The length felt true to size, I usually ski a 160 and the 163 felt in the same range. It was manageable and the length liked short and long turns.

Scores

Floatation:5/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

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.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

It was great with hardback snow, not sure how it would hold up in powder. Great for carving and getting through crud. They would be fun in narrow glades, easy to maneuver.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

This feels like an accessible ski for an intermediate skier, it likes going fast but also was steady at slower speeds.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

It is a great all mountain ski that likes to rip! It could probably handle a lot of conditions and is a real trooper.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Carly Monahan

Ability: Advanced
Height: 5'4"
Weight: 135
Days / Year: 50
Age: 41
Years Skiing: 12 (tho I've been xc-skiing recreationally for 40 years)

Engaged and active, but not particularly aggressive. I like to find the flow of terrain+ski and let that lead me; I rarely find the need to go faster than my skis want to go - nor do I typically find the need for my skis to leave the ground.

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

163 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Frozen granular groomers, icy bumps.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

Just right - true to size. I would choose this size.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:6/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Exactly what I expected; just a totally bomber, reliable ski. I feel like you could take this ski out in any conditions, including marginal ones, and know that you’ll have a good time. Sure it’s not the most playful or lightest ski out there, but it sure is dependable.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Anything really. Though I think the most fun would be had on groomers, soft bumps, fresh snow - but not super deep snow in the trees.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Intermediate to expert. An athletic intermediate skier looking to progress and push their skiing will find this ski will keep up with them as they do. Just an all-around enjoyable ski for a more advanced or expert skier as well.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

Classic all mountain feel, with enough metal to assure you that it won’t wash out or chicken out when being pushed by the skier or the conditions.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Kristin Connors

Ability: Expert
Height: 5’6”
Weight: 125
Days / Year: 75
Age: 43
Years Skiing: 37 years

I like carving groomers, ducking into trees, ski touring in the woods. Spring skiing aficionado. Believer of friends on a powder day.

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

170 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe groomers on firm hardpack and variable snow.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

The 170 was a bit long for me - it's a beefy ski! I would size down to a 163 next time.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

The Mantra 88 offers excellent stability and edge grip, while remaining maneuverable for varied terrain. It strikes a unique balance between rocker, maneuverability, power, and stability. It has enough rocker to feel accessible and easy to pivot, but not so much that it sacrifices edge grip or precision. Underfoot, the ski remains powerful and composed, delivering the stability and confidence you expect.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

It excels on groomers, firm snow, and variable conditions.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced skiers who want a powerful, do-it-all ski.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

This is a ski that can carve with authority on firm snow while still being maneuverable enough to handle tighter terrain, blending strength and agility in a way that stands out in this category.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Ann MacDonald

Ability: Expert
Height: 5’7”
Weight: 123
Days / Year: 70+ including uphill
Age: 63
Years Skiing: 61! 🤯

Having fun!

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

170 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Gondi, icy groomers.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

Perfect length! This ski skis true to size since it’s not too rockered!

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Powerhouse of a girls ski….quick, maneuverable and a great east coast width for a variety of terrain and conditions.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Groomers, bumps, soft and hard snow and icy conditions! Kinda does it all! Deep powder days personally I would like a wider ski but Im sure it’s fine!

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Intermediate to Expert ladies that like a variety of terrain.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

Great, lively, ski especially if you like to turn a lot, which I find exhausting! Good all around East coast ski for energetic gals!

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Emily Tiche

Ability: Advanced
Height: 5’2
Weight: 130
Days / Year: 15
Age: 30
Years Skiing: 22

Semi aggressive

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

163 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

I skied these at Stowe in variable conditions with a good bit of ice.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

I would say this ski is true to size.

Scores

Floatation:4/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:9/10

Playfulness:3/10

Forgiveness:3/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:4/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

I really enjoyed the Mantra 88 W. I found it to mean business and grip the ice with ease leading me to feel confident despite the conditions being a bit challenging.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

I would stick to groomers with these skis as they have a lot of charge and excel at carving. However, I will note I did not take these into the glades so I am unsure how they would do.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

These skis are best suited for intermediates to expert skiers as they can handle speed and help you get a nice carve but are likely a bit too heavy and stiff for beginners.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

I had a blast demoing these skis and found them to be very stable and fast. I would be happy to add these skis to my quiver!

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Allison Ruschp

Ability: Advanced
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 150
Days / Year: 40
Age: 39
Years Skiing: 38

x-racer who has toned it back

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

163 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Hardpack at Stowe.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

True to size.

Scores

Floatation:5/10

Stability:10/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:6/10

Forgiveness:6/10

Edge Grip:10/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Still one of my favorites on the market, it's strong, stable and smooth. Easy to get on edge and really knows how to perform on icier conditions. The 88 waist is great for a one ski quiver, its versatile enough to ski in crud, soft powder and ice.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

The Mantra 88 W can do just about any terrain, from ice to soft groomers. Even a light powder day, especially a denser snow, the Mantra 88 W will power thru it all. Its a little narrow and heavy to a true powder day, but those are rare anyways.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced skiers who like a stiffer ski with metal. The reduced weight helps with turn initiation and the mental constructions helps with the edge grip and stability buts a stronger ski than most on the market, putting it at the advanced level.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

Love the new topsheet colors!

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Bryce Zicarelli

Ability: Advanced
Height: 5'6"'"
Weight: 150
Days / Year: ~60 days a season
Age: 27
Years Skiing: ~26 years

I'd say I'm an advanced-ish skier with a racing background but been skiing quite conservatively over the last few years. Slowly getting back into a more aggressive riding style -- trying to hit bigger lines and hit them smooth, going outside of my comfort zone but not beyond my limits!

Ski:

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

Size Tested:

170 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe, VT - Extremely firm groomers, granular.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

These felt long.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Very heavy, hyper smooth/damp. Eager to turn but it demands a lot of respect and technique. I see why there is such a following for this ski but it needs your undivided attention at all times, so I wouldn't want to ski it all day long.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Frontside carving and groomers.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Technically sound advanced and expert skiers.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

These were a lot.

Read the Full Ski Test →

2027 Volkl Mantra 88 W Women's Skis

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