2025 Volkl M7 Mantra Ski Review with SkiEssentials.com

[@troypeterson27]

Just got my pair in the mail today! Coming from 5 years on M5s, very excited to try out the new hotness. Thanks for an awesome video guys (as always)!

[@SkiEssentials]

Awesome! Hope you enjoy them!

[@Bushwacked487]

What do you think??

[@behroozamirinejad3959]

I love Volkl particularly Kendo 88, all Volkl productions are really nice. Thanks Skiessentials

[@SkiEssentials]

Glad you like them!

[@darinsmith2458]

Everybody in this video really skied these skis well.. I think that was the best I have seen Bob ski the moguls..

[@scorch13md]

Finally!!! Thanks guys!!!

[@Iinifinii]

each time i look these videos, i'am always facinating into differences of each skies.

[@keith2076]

The first M6 was my intro to Volkl. Absolutely LOVED the ski. So responsive, so fast, and edges you can stand on. I’m a complete Volkl fan now and ski the Kendo 88 and Mantra 102…..but damn do I want to try out these M7s!!!

[@SkiEssentials]

Please do! It's interesting to see the differences between these skis, even if they're subtle!

[@IanBrentFetterly]

Useful, right-on reviews

[@quentenjones5513]

I hope Beach appreciates how many times you say ‘beach’ 😂 And he rips! Also, I love the M7s!

[@rickardare9454]

They are sweet😃Get a pair in late December, so been riding them for almost a whole season, and totally agree whit your opinion about them. Downsized to 177 and it works fine, would have liked the 184 in spring slush, but downsizing works for me. So thanks for a good job 🙂

[@Bushwacked487]

Had you tried the m6? Would be interested to hear your impressions of the difference.

[@rickardare9454]

@@Bushwacked487 I use to have the M6 before, liked that modell, big improvement over the older M5. The new M7 is quicker and more stable than M6, not a super big differens but notable. I totally agree with Jeff and Bob in this clip.

[@Bushwacked487]

@@rickardare9454 thanks for the insight man! Might have to grab a pair now…

[@MikeMyerstpt]

Curious what is your height and weight?

[@rickardare9454]

@@MikeMyerstpt Around 175cm (5,9) and 100kg. So not a small guy

[@rickden8362]

When I first opened this episode I thought it was a poll on who had the best looking knees. I vote for Bob.

[@bearclaw5115]

Oh yeah, Bob for the win!

[@robertvilter9196]

Would be so interested to hear your comparison of the Mantra M7 and the new Enforcer 99. Cheers.

[@patrik.rosendahl]

Second this! Would be an interesting comparison.

[@SkiEssentials]

Happy to lend thoughts, but in the video we noted that it is more like the Enforcer 94 than the 99. With the new tail rocker and forward mount point, the new 99 feels more versatile and swervy than the M7. Off-trail, I'd much rather ski on the Enforcer. On-trail, it's really close. They both fit that high-performance model, but the M7 is more precise and responsive with more pep and zest.

[@patrik.rosendahl]

@@SkiEssentials Thanks for the reply! I think I'll look into the Enforcer then for that bit extra off trail performance.

[@robertvilter9196]

@@SkiEssentials Perfect. Thank you.

[@carterfan80]

How is the maneuverability vs a Bonafide?

[@mbohone]

Great video. Jeff and Bob are both on the 177? I need help deciding between 170 and 177. I'm 5'11" 180 lbs and currently ski the 2015 Mantra in a 170 which I love. But I'm thinking I should go longer but don't have a great reason other than maybe more float off-piste? But I do like to make short turns and want maneuverability in trees. I do like very fast high speed GS turns also and my 170s were crazy stable. Do I lose some of that in the M7? Do the M7s now turn easier than the 4th gen so I could go with 177?

[@SkiEssentials]

The new ski is considerably more precise and smooth than the older versions. I do think they're a lot easier, but they're also not less stable. If you like the 2015 in the 170, I'd still get the new one in the same size.

[@skyoung419z]

I've skied on two generations of Mantra and will definitely be buying the M7.

[@SkiEssentials]

It's been very interesting to see these skis evolve over time, and we're pretty darn confident you'll enjoy these M7's.

[@JohnCowlesOfficial]

Volkl is the Audi of skis. Accessible-ish at their price point, amazing product, confusing branding, amazing performance, with a few sacrifices.

[@johnp4917]

I have the M6 and the S8. Have to agree.

[@joachimb8231]

You again with your mouthwatering footage! Thank you so much! How about the main differences of the M7 to the Kendo 88? What do you feel under your feet resp. legs by comparing them?

[@SkiEssentials]

The M7 now feels like a more productive ski from tip to tail--there's something to be had at every phase of the turn. The Mantra 88 still has a very strong and predictable feel, it's not as peppy (per width) as the new M7. The 88 still likes to find and hold the radius of the turn while the M7 can be finessed better than before. I suspect that once the M7 tech reaches the Mantra 88 (likely for 2026), those characteristics will filter into the narrower ski as well.

[@John_Carder]

An off-topic question for Bob: After having skied both the Kästle and Lange boots for a season, have you come to any conclusions?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Kastle is still my favorite. It fits my foot very well and the performance is off the charts. If that boot didn't exist, the RS 130 would easily take its place as my new go-to boot. The Shadow is interesting, but I think I prefer the traditional feel of the RS 130.

[@GoodTrails]

How's do the Mantra M6 and M7 compare on icey days? I'm an intermediate skier living 2 hours west of Tremblant and we get a lot of rain, freeze, thaw, then freeze again cycles. I have been looking for a ski for bullet proof/chattery hard pack and icey groomers. But, I still want something versatile enough for trips to Jay, Stowe, and Whiteface. I currently have Kore 87's and they are less than confidence inspiring in icy mixed conditions, but I love them on Soft and medium firmness snow. Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

They compare very closely--I don't think it's a discernable difference. The M7 has a lower profile tip with more carbon strips and a slightly shorter entry radius, so it does hook into the ice a bit more precisely than the M6, but the build is mainly the same so you're going to get similar grip if the edges are equally as sharp.

[@Andy-gn2hj]

Thanks for the review. I had a chance to demo in the Spring. I have the two ski quiver M6 + Blaze 106. The new M7 is a great all arounder and had great carving. The wide tip improves for powder and slop but not for bumps so wouldn't like it as my daily. Also did they put suspension rubber tips and tails? It felt more damp and less energy than my M6 but could have just been my Spring conditions? Is there a new mantra 88 coming out that would have a 5mm wider tip as well that could be a good upgrade from my M6?

[@SkiEssentials]

No rubber that we know of in tips and tails. We expect that changes to the Mantra 88 will come for 2026, but no official word at this point. If you are looking for a peppier M6 with a wider tip, it's probably worth the wait.

[@amateurstanding]

Can’t wait to hear about the 108/Katana

[@SkiEssentials]

It's Mantra 108 now, and it's structurally unchanged from last year. Great new color, same solid ski!

[@nicholas5396]

I hope they fixed the tail delamination. Had a pair of 2023/23 secrets both skis delaminated at the tails at just after the warranty period. Had other issues with the frame delamination in older m4 model a few years back. In both cases volkl customer service made it right but still seems like it's happened enough over the years with other people they could figure out the issue. Since it's not happening on every ski sold I assume it's not a design issue and more a manufacturing qc issue in something to do with the epoxy and pressing. Just a guess though. Great skis. One of the more versatile front side oriented freeride/all mountain skis out there. If you're going on a trip and unsure what type of snow and terrain you encounter you wouldn't be upset if you packed a pair of mantras and was you're only ski.

[@SkiEssentials]

Most skis have some sort of tail cover or insert to mitigate this issue. That is not the case with M7, but hopefully they have taken steps to improve the overall construction of the skis for 2025.

[@pavelsindelar3579]

Thanks for another great review! For many years, the often compared hard chargers in this category, Mantra M5/M6 vs. Bonafide 97 vs. Enforcer 94 held their position against one another. This seems to have changed for the first time in a while with the 2025 skis. How would you compare the new M7 vs. Anomaly 94 vs. the new Enfrocer 94? I know you've suggested the Anomaly kind of switched positions with the Enforcer. Any thoughts on the overall comparison of the three? Thank you.

[@SkiEssentials]

They all compare very favorably in terms of overall performance and application. M7 is still the most precise, and now is creeping up in the agility department. The Anomaly 94 needs more pep. The 84 and 88 have it, but I haven't been totally sold on the energy of the 94 at this point. That is also the case for the new Anomaly 102. Very smooth and stable, but not a ton of feedback. The new Enforcer 94 is very close to perfection when it comes to mixing all available attributes with the fewest weaknesses. This ski is amazing and should be at the top of anyone's short list who's looking at high performance mid-90's skis. Just awesome.

[@pavelsindelar3579]

Thanks for the reply!

[@OB2Kenobi]

Is the Mantra the go-to choice for a maneuverable tree ski with the most edge grip? I’m thinking of days when one has the itch to ski trees, but it there is no fresh snow to be had.

[@bearclaw5115]

The Mantra is definitely not on the list of maneuverable tree skis! I think a better choice for you mission would be a QST 92 which will snake through the trees much easier. It won't have the power on the groomers of course and they are a dozen other skis in between these choices but I wouldn't want to drag a Mantra into the woods.

[@SkiEssentials]

I do think this ski works better in trees without fresh snow, so a packed path through the woods. If the snow is heavy or cruddy, these skis prefer more open zones. Within Volkl's line, the Blaze 94 is a better option in this non fresh snow tree realm.

[@mcleanirish]

Can tell you at least that the latest Volkl Kendo at 88 under-foot does not do well in the trees, or is maneuverable in tight trees (when going slower) without a hop turn. If going faster that might be a different story but am not too eager to try that with those skis.

[@aloebeara]

Well done. You guys mentioned the potential for a near endless tweaking of the carbon in the tips. Do you know how many ski engineers work to develop these skis?

[@SkiEssentials]

Not sure. I can't imagine there's more than a few.

[@OlaCurtius]

Have an older version Mantra from 2014. Tested the M6 but felt it was very numb and sluggish in turn ins. Slow speed was a battle in comparison. Really hoping the M7 is better in that perspective. Can’t wait for the first tests in December 😊

[@SkiEssentials]

Hopefully this new ski brings some light and joy to your ski experience!

[@carpusbarsum]

How does it compare to the Black Crows Serpo as a one ski quiver for Europe or East Coast?

[@SkiEssentials]

The energy and precision is mostly there with the Serpo, but in the M7, it extends from tip to tail. You get some reprieve with the Serpo and the lack of end to end metal. If you do not think you need the total stability and power that the M7 provides, you'll likely be better off and happier on a Serpo. M7 is ideally suited for the skier that wants it all and does not want to sacrifice.

[@Coconautify]

Great review guys. Would you recommend this ski to an intermediate? I think its helpful to comment on this aspect in your reviews of the different skis - which demographic is a particular ski best suited to?.

[@bearclaw5115]

The Mantra is better suited to advanced skiers. It's not that you couldn't ski it but you might find it skiing you. A better choice for you would be the Rustler 9 as mentioned in the video. Much easier to get on with and you'll progress faster.

[@SkiEssentials]

If you are of an intermediate skill level, you should at least be strong and/or athletic. Experts will get the most out of the ski.

[@No_Name_2604]

what would be your recommendation for a 100-110 powder ski that‘s made for conditions in which you‘ve got lots of powder that’s already been skied through often times and is made for a lighter skier around 65kg?

[@bearclaw5115]

Being that light, I think performance in chop will be relatively easier for most skis to accomplish. A heavier skier could fold up a flimsy pair but you would be unlikely to do the same. You may want to choose based on other parameters that are also relevant to you.

[@SkiEssentials]

We are just now putting out a review of the 2025 Black Crows Corvus. This ski is excellent for that application. Dynastar M-Free 108 and Atomic Maverick 105 CTi also fit this description quite well.

[@malcolmturner4232]

Great review as usual. How do you think this compares to a Ripstick Black edition? Maybe need to demo both before deciding, not always to try both though.

[@SkiEssentials]

The M7 is closer to the original Black Edition 96 more than the 2025. Even then, the Elan isn't quite as sturdy or stable, nor is it as precise or grippy. I do think that the Ripstick is more versatile and easier to ski for a vast majority of skiers. More skiers will be able to access all of the performance benefits of the Ripstick while more skilled skiers will unlock the M7 to create a super-strong and powerful ski experience.

[@rtabucic]

What's the big difference between Mantra 88 (Kendo 88) and the Mantra M7? I was considering buying the Mantra 88 but my gut feeling tells me to get the M7. I love to carve fast on Austrian groomers, but I'm trying to get myself into off piste a bit more. I skied a 66mm underfoot 162cm length while having 80kg and being 175cm tall. I'm considering the 177cm length for the Mantra M7. Which ski should I get? Thanks

[@SkiEssentials]

The M7 has the new 4 Radius Drive, an updated tailored titanal frame, and carbon tips. Other than that they have very different feels to them aside from the width difference. At 96 mm underfoot, the M7 has a lot more beef to it but it's not as agile or grippy as the narrower 88. If you're used to a 66, the move to a 96 is certainly a bigger leap than that to 88. I would start with the 88 and see if you need or want to go wider. You can also size down to the 170 if you want because the skis are so stout and sturdy that there's no real need to upsize in order to attain stability.

[@rtabucic]

@@SkiEssentials thank you so much for th3 valuable information

[@AlertsAPC3]

How are these going to go as a ski for a 2 week trip to Snowbird in early Feb?

[@SkiEssentials]

If you get snow, then great! You have a mid-90's ski with a flatter profile that will handle freshies just fine. If you don't get snow, then great! You have a fantastic carver that works well on-trail in a carved turn or off-trail as a wind-buffed and crud master.

[@mazollo1]

I’m looking to get the 177. Do you have a recommendation on bindings?

[@SkiEssentials]

We pair them with the Tyrolia Attack 14, but the Marker Griffon works great as well! www.skiessentials.com/products/2025-volkl-m7-mantra-skis-with-bindings-v2410112k?ski%2520size=170

[@volkl-skis]

woohoo!

[@bearclaw5115]

I hated the M6 last year. Worst ski I tried on demo day (dozen skis tried). It felt planky and rough. I couldn't wait to turn it back in. I'm a big dude and like to carve hard. I thought it would be right up my alley. But I do like making shorter, rapid turns maybe I wasn't patient enough with the tip. I'd give the new version a chance with it's wider tip. Looks like they did their best to improve the ski. I ended up buying a pair of Rossi Sender 94ti's. From Skiessentials of course! A really dynamic and fun ski that carved way better than I thought possible. I guess my point is to use Bob and Jeff to put skis on your shortlist and try out as many skis as you can because you might be surprised what ski ends up being your jam.

[@SkiEssentials]

A great reminder that there's no substitute for actually trying the skis! We do our best, and share our personal experiences, but it's never going to replace empirical knowledge. Thanks for sharing!

[@StartCodonUST]

Between my Nordica Enforcer 104, Blizzard Thunderbird R13, and my new Stereo Piste RS, basically a detuned wide (76 underfoot) GS ski, there's a bit of a gap for something 90-96 underfoot, soft-ish flex compared to the rest of my quiver, good in trees/moguls, but still a fun carver, especially in softer snow that would overwhelm my narrower skis. Sounds like the M7 Mantra, while being maybe more fun for carving than my Enforcer 104, is a good deal more carving-oriented than what I'm looking for compared to a Black Crows Serpo, Blizzard Rustler 9, or Atomic Maverick 95 Ti.

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd think the Rustler 9 fits best with what you have, mainly due to the versatility and fun factor. Especially if you're looking for something that mixes bumps, trees and groomers.

[@markfriedman8892]

Great Vid as always,. I ski with a Mantra fanboy but I am leaning towards the Paragon 93 and a new pair of '24 QST 106 to round out the Quiver. Thoughts on that Quiver and M7 vs paragon 93? Thx

[@bearclaw5115]

Your question is too broad. Where do you ski? What do you ski? Ability level, size? Only thing I can offer you is that my '24 QST's came in 200g heavier than they should be. 2,080g is printed right on the ski. But they aren't! My pair is also not an anomaly, there'll all overweight. Not sending them back but I def wish they were lighter. I'm not a fan of heavy powder skis. Who knows maybe they'll feel great.

[@markfriedman8892]

Colorado, Groomers and bowls 60/40. 5'8 198 racer from the 1980s. On the Fx 96ti and Rustler 112 now. Looking to sell fx96. I ask the guys a lot of questions. But you're right.

[@markfriedman8892]

200 grams over is a lot for the QST!

[@SkiEssentials]

The Paragon 93 is a closer comparison to the Mantra, so if you're looking for that style of ski, then the Kastle is a great choice. If wider, softer snows are on your horizon, then the QST 106 is a better option.

[@blade1535]

Just bought a pair of these. Let’s see how they go 🤞🏻🤩

[@jsieq23]

Do you know when you’ll be able to review Peregrine 80/82?

[@SkiEssentials]

We have this video of these skis. It's not quite a full review of either ski individually, but we do cover most of it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqqvpmR4e9dolbM

[@calibomber209]

The gotamas were great.

[@jberczi6]

Wonder who will "win" this generation of the Mantra/Anomaly/Enforcer wars

[@Ceemysix]

We will.

[@SkiEssentials]

I agree with the above commenter. The skier is the winner of this battle. As to who will sell more? I see it very difficult to dethrone the Mantra.

[@jberczi6]

@@SkiEssentials Has Mantra always outsold the Enforcer?

[@Ceemysix]

@@SkiEssentials I wish more ski shop sales people would take the time to properly inform their customers on their options based on the customers needs/wants. Ski essentials goes above and beyond in educating its viewer base on what is out there and who should benefit. We are in a minority.

[@FlimFlamvanHam]

You're just talking sales numbers, yeah? Because they are each totally different skis and should appeal to very different skier wants/needs.

[@Bushwacked487]

Would it be fair to say that it feels like it skis a little narrower than the m6 on groomers?

[@SkiEssentials]

I don't think I'd come out and say that, but I also would understand if a bunch of skiers feel that way. It's all about the entry and exit with the M7, which is a lot more dynamic than that of the M6. If you feel that conveys the character of feeling narrower, then I would 100% agree.

[@martinbjorklid3336]

Is there any difference between the m6 from the 22/23 szn and 23/24?

[@SkiEssentials]

Nope, those are same skis with slightly different graphics.

[@martinbjorklid3336]

@@SkiEssentials would you still recommend the m6?

[@SkiEssentials]

@@martinbjorklid3336 Highly recommend the M6! Super solid and very smooth.

[@mathieug6136]

I wonder why they didn't push those change on the new Kendo/mantra 88

[@Bushwacked487]

The kendo and 102 are always on cycle for updates 1 year behind the mantra. They’ll be out next year

[@mathieug6136]

@@Bushwacked487 good to know!

[@SkiEssentials]

The above comments are generally correct. While we haven't exactly heard this is the case, the smart money is on the 88 and 102 getting the M7 treatment for 2026.

[@Reiberle]

After this coming season my stance 96 will definitely fall apart. These will be on the short list. Hoping that the top sheet on these will last a bit longer 😅

[@SkiEssentials]

It does seem that they are both aware of the issue and taking steps to prevent the problem. It's not like all Mantras delaminate, but when you see a top-shelf ski like this peel, it just has bad optics. We have high hopes for the M7's increased durability.

[@Bushwacked487]

Do the tails/end of the turn feel any different?

[@SkiEssentials]

I found the M7 to be considerably more energetic out of the tail than the M6. It's a progressive build from the mid-body back through the tails, ending with a total rocket rebound out of the turn. If you're balanced and can deal with the energy, it's an extremely lively ski experience.

[@Bushwacked487]

@@SkiEssentials love to hear it!

[@DLeeDukeJr]

?t=19:16 -watch the tip movement. I skied these a couple weeks ago an loved them when on edge. They suck when not on edge. That's not over the top -they are terrible if not on edge

[@greedygreg-l9r]

What height are you guys? Bro looked huge and he's on a 177?

[@SkiEssentials]

Jeff: 5/10 160 Bob: 6/2 225 The skis are strong and if speed isn't a goal, there's no real need to upsize here. The 184 is fine, but the 177 feels very stable and secure even for bigger skiers. More about preference and application when it comes to sizing versus a hard and fast rule/equation matching stats to ski size.

[@TomekMajchrzak]

I want that pair😂

[@raybird180]

I still like the new shape of the blizzard anomaly’s.

[@SkiEssentials]

I do wonder if traditional Mantra skiers tried the Anomaly 94 back to back with the M7 what they'd think. The precision aspect of the M7 still stands out as a defining characteristic while the Anomaly feels smoother at speed and more capable of higher velocity carves.

[@garyhunter9612]

Don't know why they dropped the Kendo name. At least when people ask you what you are riding and you reply Kendo or Mantra they know straight away. I might be a bit precious being a Kendo rider😁

[@SkiEssentials]

I always liked the Kendo name because it implied that the ski was incisive and sword-like. It makes some sense from a branding perspective, but you are not the only one who's going to miss the Kendo name.

[@mcleanirish]

Skiing the Kendos you also feel like a martial artist with the constant shift of balance and weight distribution needed to take full advantage of its advanced turn-capabilities and the ski in general. Slightly different than other skis I've been on, but the Kendos do work Very well once you understand them.​ @SkiEssentials

[@paulbrownjr8676]

This ski looks more universal than I feel like you guys give them credit for. Looks like it can turn short as well as it can carve.

[@bearclaw5115]

The M6's definitely did not like short turns when I tried them last year. The new version should have some improvement with the wider tip but these guys have skied hundreds possibly thousands of skis. I'd trust their experience over an impression you are getting from a picture or specs. Skis often surprise you, skiing differently than you might think before you try them.

[@SkiEssentials]

I suppose you're right that the SKI can do those things, but our main point was that it just takes more work to access those different types of turns, especially the shorter ones. Former racers, like the skier at the end of the video, can make it go, but she also notes that it's not something you'd want to spend your whole day doing.

[@Pädderson_89]

Made in Germany ❤

[@philippefagnant1841]

Mid 80

[@Tirppa]

Obligatory, first