Völkl 2018 ski reviews

The Kendo from Völkl is a benchmark in this segment, always getting high scores from the PROSKILAB reviewers and loved by the ski community. On the ski runs, it’s a high-strung and stiff tool with exceptional qualities for a ski in this category. The Kendo loves speed and is happy in dynamic turns, on hard pack and steep slopes. Good grip, turn precision, stability and rebound... the cocktail is always just... Read on

Like the Speedzone 7, Völkl's RTM 76 is very accessible when it comes to mastering skid turns and will help riders advance to more technical turns. The ski is accessible from the middle of ESF class 2, in other words, once riders have mastered parallel turns. It’s slightly less accessible than the Dynastar because the tail hampers behavior to some extent in back-leaning positions. Skiers who are well centered... Read on

Since the brand’s Kendo, Mantra and Cochise regularly score high in the PROSKILAB reviews, we were curious to see how Völkl’s 90Eight (for "98") behaves in this category where we’re also looking for lightness. It was no surprise that the 90Eight is a bit heavier and stiffer than its playmates, with more emphasis on performance. It behaves well and is efficient both on and off the groomers.... Read on

Generally getting high praise from the reviewers and taking home a "Best ski" award last year, this year the Mantra lost a few places, probably because of the softer snow conditions and the arrival of new high-flying contenders like the Stormrider 95. The ski is still an excellent model and a market benchmark, but the reviewers found it more demanding than in previous years. The Mantra is still a stiff ski,... Read on

Völkl‘s RTM 81 puts the focus squarely on performance, especially high speed and long turns where it excels. It’s an energetic, even aggressive ski, which requires engagement and a forward position to be handled correctly. It’s slightly less happy in short turns where the rider has to show some stamina, not helped by a rather flexible tail, and rebound that lacks energy. The RTM 81 is great for... Read on

Don’t forget that ProSkiLab reviews a selection of the best skis on the market. This means that excellent skis can sometimes finish last. That's what happened to the Racetiger RC from Völkl, that has great qualities but was somewhat too "underpowered" to do well in this category. Despite its consistent and reassuring behavior, the ski is flexible and lacks responsiveness and bite. It’s... Read on