Having the appropriate gear can be crucial in skiing. The Volkl Mantra and Kendo are two popular skis designed for advanced skiers.
Choosing between the two can be challenging, as they have some similarities but also significant differences in design and performance.
We will analyze the materials, shape, and skiing performance of both skis to help skiing enthusiasts make an informed decision.
Importance of Choosing the Right Ski
Choosing the right ski is crucial for a successful skiing experience.
A well-suited ski can enhance the skier’s performance, while an unsuitable one can hinder it.
Factors like skiing ability, terrain, and skiing style should be considered while selecting a ski.
Design and Construction
Design and construction play a significant role in a ski’s performance.
The materials used, shape, and width affect the ski’s stability, maneuverability, and speed.
In this section, we will analyze the design and construction of both skis.
Materials Used
Both skis use different materials to achieve their distinct characteristics.
The Mantra features a multi-layer wood core, Titanal frame, and full sidewalls for stiffness and stability.
The Kendo has a slimmer wood core, a layer of titanate, and a full sidewall for added versatility.
Both skis have a layer of carbon to reduce weight and improve responsiveness.
Shape and Profile of the Skis
The shape and profile of a ski affect its performance on different terrains.
The Volkl Mantra has a wider tip and tail, a camber underfoot, and a rocker profile for better floatation and stability in powder.
The Kendo has a more moderate width, a camber underfoot, and a tip rocker for better maneuverability in moguls and trees.
Both skis have a slight taper at the tip to reduce drag and improve turn initiation.
Comparison of the Ski Widths
Ski width is an essential factor that determines a ski’s performance on different terrains.
The Volkl Mantra has a wider waist of 96mm (about 3.78 in).
On the other hand, the Kendo has a slimmer waist of 88mm (about 3.46 in), making it more versatile.
The Mantra’s width allows it to float better in powder, while the Kendo’s width makes it more maneuverable on groomed runs.
NOTE
The waist width of the skis may vary depending on the ski’s length.
Skiing Performance
Skiing performance is an essential factor to consider while selecting a ski.
In this section, we will analyze the skiing performance of both skis.
Stability and Control on Groomed Runs
The Volkl Mantra and Kendo offer excellent stability and control on groomed runs.
The Mantra’s stiffness and width provide a stable platform at high speeds, while the Kendo’s versatility and maneuverability make it easier to handle.
NOTE
Skiers’ experience and technique can affect the stability and control of the skis.
Maneuverability in Moguls and Trees
Maneuverability is crucial while skiing through moguls and trees.
The Volkl Kendo’s slimmer waist and rocker profile make it more maneuverable and agile in these terrains.
The Mantra’s width makes it harder to maneuver, but its stiffness provides a better edge grip.
Powder Performance and Floatation
Both skis have distinctive designs that affect their powder performance and flotation.
The Mantra’s width, rocker profile, and stiffness make it better suited for powder, providing better floatation and stability.
The Kendo’s narrower waist makes it less suitable for deep powder, but its rocker profile helps with turn initiation.
Ability to Handle High Speeds
Both skis can also handle high speeds, but the Mantra’s stiffness and width make it better suited for these conditions.
The Kendo’s versatility and maneuverability make it easier to handle at moderate speeds.
The Edge Grip and Carving Ability
The Volkl Mantra and Kendo offer excellent edge grip and carving ability, thanks to their camber profiles and full sidewalls.
The Mantra’s stiffness provides better edge hold, while the Kendo’s versatility makes it easier to initiate turns.
NOTE
Snow conditions can affect the skis’ edge grip and carving ability.
Skill Level
The skill level of a skier is a crucial factor when selecting a ski.
In this section, we will analyze which ski is best suited for intermediate and advanced skiers.
Which Ski is Better Suited for Advanced Skiers
The Volkl Mantra is better suited for advanced skiers due to its stiffness and width.
It provides better stability and control at high speeds and in powder. Its camber profile and full sidewalls also make it better for carving.
NOTE
Advanced skiers can handle stiffer and wider skis, but it also depends on their personal preference and skiing style.
Suitable Terrain
The Volkl Mantra and Kendo are suitable for different terrains.
The Mantra is better suited for off-piste skiing, deep powder, and high speeds.
The Kendo is better suited for groomers, moguls, trees, and at moderate speeds.
How they Perform for Beginner and Intermediate Skiers
Unfortunately, both skis are not suitable for beginner skiers due to their stiffness and width.
Intermediate skiers may find the Kendo more manageable due to its versatility and maneuverability.
Price and Value for Money
The price and value for money are essential factors to consider while buying skis.
In this section, we will analyze the price and value of Volkl Mantra and Kendo.
Cost
The Volkl Mantra is usually more expensive than the Kendo due to its wider width and stiffer construction.
However, the cost can vary depending on the ski length and year of manufacture.
NOTE
It is essential to consider the value of the ski along with its cost while making a purchase decision.
Are They Worth the Investment?
Whether the Volkl Mantra or Kendo is worth the investment depends on the skier’s needs and preferences.
Both skis are high-quality and offer excellent performance.
However, it’s essential to consider factors like skiing level, terrain, and budget before making a purchase decision.
NOTE
Demoing the skis before buying can help determine their suitability and value.
Which Ski is Better for Skiing Enthusiasts
Both skis are designed for advanced to expert skiers who want high performance on the slopes.
The Volkl Mantra excels in providing stability and control on groomed runs, making it ideal for fast, aggressive skiing.
It also offers excellent edge grip and carving ability, making it a popular choice for those who love to carve.
However, it may not be as maneuverable in moguls and trees as the Kendo.
On the other hand, the Kendo has a narrower waist, making it more versatile on different terrain types.
It also offers better maneuverability in moguls and trees, making it ideal for those who like to ski off-piste.
The Kendo is usually more affordable than the Mantra.
It is an excellent value for skiing enthusiasts who want a high-performance ski at a reasonable price.
Takeaway
Both the Volkl Mantra and Kendo are great skis designed for different skill levels and terrains.
The Mantra is better suited for advanced skiers who want to tackle steep terrain and deep powder.
While the Kendo is a versatile ski that can handle a range of conditions for intermediate to advanced skiers.
The Mantra is more stable at high speeds and has a superior edge grip, but the Kendo is more maneuverable in moguls and trees.
The price difference between the two is significant, but both skis offer excellent value for money.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the skier.
Some people collect expensive old cars, and I’m into collecting bikes. I have 15 different bikes: special mountain bikes, sportbikes, professional, amateur, and city bikes. My friends and colleagues call me a ‘bike expert’ because I give advice on how to choose the right bike.
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