OTHER THAN THE TOPSHEET, the Völkl M6 Mantra is unchanged for 2023 but continues to land on the pages of our Buyer’s Guide for good reason. Featuring the brand’s proprietary 3D radius sidecut—longer radii in tip and tail and a shorter radius underfoot—this speed machine can make long, drawn out Super G turns but can also snake together quick slalom turns. Tailored carbon fiber in the tip and a Tailored Titanal Frame make the Völkl M6 Mantra more amiable than its predecessor at slower speeds; but don’t let its approachability fool you, this ski wants to rip. Whether it’s ice, chewed up pow or a total refresh, the M6’s rockered tip and tail keep you floating on top while traditional camber underfoot hooks and holds on for dear life. “An absolute missile,” says Pit Viper’s Mike Filander.

Explore the 2023 FREESKIER Buyer’s Guide