2020 Völkl M5 Mantra

[SkiTalk Test Team]

Philpug: First, the good: Völkl did everything right with the new M5 Mantra. It went back to its roots and narrowed the ski, to 96 mm underfoot. It made the flex more balanced, tightened the turn radius, and, most important, brought back camber. These are all positives, the ingredients for a great all-mountain ski. So the M5 should be a winner, right? I know I was excited to get on it ....

Not so fast. The jury is still out for me. I don't like saying it, but occasionally there are skis that I just cannot figure out, and the M5 is one of them. I really wanted to like this new Völkl, but for some reason we did not get along. Trust me, it was not for lack of trying. I skied it at Copper, Snowbasin, Mammoth, and Mt Rose. I skied it in the 177 and 184. I skied it with the bindings fore and aft. So, four mountains, four types of snow, two sizes, and three mount points. Nothing.

I have never been more frustrated with a ski that I know is supposed to be good. So, until the light bulb goes off for me, you will need to rely on other reviewers' opinions about the M5.

Insider tip: Sell your Mantras that are 98 mm and above and put your order in now. Daddy’s home.​

Drahtguy Kevin: A totally new Mantra welcomes camber back to the build. Groomers were sensational atop the M5 with great initiation and an energetic exit. Multiple turn shapes were a snap. The softened tip caused some dismay off piste as it deflected easily in heavier crud. The M5 embraces the “build 'em light” mantra, making this ski feel much narrower than the 96 mm it is.

Insider tip: The inclusion of camber puts this ski back on the path to greatness.​

 

[glschmidt17]

Skiing 177cm M5 and find them a versatile all mountain ski. They carve like a fat GS Ski but are comfortable in the woods and off piste. Had them in knee deep blower powder at Powder Mountain Utah Feb 4 2020 where they performed very well. Could have used a fatter ski but they were fun and floated okay. Fine in chop and feel like they need to be pushed hard to work best. Stable at speed and holds an edge on firm snow. At 96 underfoot they are not quick edge to edge. Have some rebound energy. They need to be driven with a good centered stance. Fun and powerful.