The Mantra has been an icon in the all-mountain world since 2005-06. The fifth generation Mantra, dubbed the M5, is set to do the same but with a new construction strategy. Völkl arranges Titanal around the perimeters of the tip and tail, while also utilizing a carbon inlay in the nose. This decreases the ski’s weight without losing the damp, stiff properties that a full sheet of metal provides. The Volkl M5 Mantra also features a rocker-camber-rocker profile, allowing it to perform in any situation. Justin Greene’s review says it all: “Has absolutely no speed limit on hardpack, cuts through the crud as if it’s not there, is nimble through the bumps and has so much life to it. 11/10.”