All-mountain skiing is a style that lets you explore many different elements and terrains. It’s a style I enjoy because it allows you to develop your abilities while discovering new features on a mountain you may have never encountered before.
I’m Christine, and I’ve been skiing for most of my life. I founded TheSkiGirl to share my love of the sport with other skiers while also providing a valuable resource that people can use to make informed buying decisions.
The Volkl Mantra M5 is my pick for the best all-mountain skis. These are an extremely versatile option that is capable of handling nearly any condition that comes your way. The Mantra is a fun ski that allows you to bust through slush, cruise fast on groomers, and float on top of powder.
There are plenty of other good all-mountain models out there, so in this post, I’ll share with you all of my favorites so you can find the option that best suits your needs in the mountains. You can’t go wrong with any of them, and every model is recommended.
Let’s get started.
Contents
Who Should Get This
All-mountain skis allow you to handle a wide-ranging variety of conditions on the mountain, which makes them an excellent option for just about anyone.
Beginners will like that these skis allow you to explore new terrain and ski styles, while experts and intermediates who already enjoy all-mountain skiing know this style can let you handle anything that comes your way.
If you’re considering purchasing your first set of skis, all-mountain models are a great option. These skis will allow you to handle changing conditions that happen throughout a ski season or when traveling to different places.
They are incredibly versatile, which means you’ll be able to handle everything from early-season crud to big powder days to soft groomers without having to change your equipment.
If you want a specialty ski that stands out in one specific style over another, you probably won’t want to get an all-mountain type of ski. While these can handle nearly any condition, they are not exactly built to stand out in one over another.
What does all-mountain mean for skis?
All-mountain skis mean that you can take them reliably all over the mountain. These skis are built for versatility, and they offer effective performance in nearly every condition you are likely to face when you ski.
How much are all-mountain skis?
Just like any other type of ski, all-mountain skis come in a range of prices. On the low end, you can get a quality option for $400-500. On the high-end, you might pay close to $1000 or more. Generally, they fall in between $500 and $1000.
Are All-Mountain Skis Good for Beginners?
Yes, all-mountain skis make for a good option for beginners. They are perfect for any beginner who wants to learn how to ride in different types of terrain and not be limited in where they can ski.
Can you ski powder with all-mountain skis?
Yes, all-mountain skis can easily be used in powder conditions. If you think you’ll see a lot of powder, wider skis are always better. But all-mountain models typically come in a middle width that can cruise through powder no problem.
Best All-Mountain Skis: Top Picks
All-mountain skis are some of the most popular skis on the market. They give you the ability to handle anything that comes your way on the mountain, and that versatility allows you to ski on them all season long.
1. Volkl Mantra M5
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: Versatile, extremely stable, solid construction, multilayer wood core, durable,
- Sizes: 170, 177, 184, 191
- Ability Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Cost: $$$
The Volkl Montra M5 is a serious ski capable of handling nearly any condition and gets my vote as the best overall all-mountain ski. It’s simply fun to ski on and will give you outstanding versatility that is required when all-mountain riding.
The construction includes a Titanal frame that adds a lot of stability and performance at high speeds without sacrificing flexibility. These skis perform well in just about every condition.
The Volkl Mantra 5 makes for one of the best all-mountain skis around. These skis are sure to stay stable at high speeds while also floating over powder and cutting through crud with ease.
Their construction allows for solid strength without compromising weight or flexibility. They also feature carbon tips for added stability at high speeds and a rocker-camber-rocker profile that’s nice for an all-mountain ski.
There isn’t much to dislike about these skis, but they are not a great option for beginners and are expensive.
==> You can also get it on Skis or Buckman’s.
2. Fischer Ranger 99 Ti
- Best for: Intermediate Skiers
- Key features: Great for intermediate skiers, sandwich sidewall construction, durable, lightweight
- Sizes: 174, 181, 188
- Ability Level: Intermediate
- Cost: $$$
The Fischer Ranger 99 Ti is the best all-mountain ski for intermediate skiers, and they are another great option if your skillset sits right in the middle.
These skis have a more traditional design and construction that features two sheets of metal sandwiched together. The 99 Tis handle fast speeds while still floating on powder or cutting through the crud.
Their shape allows for extra edge contact with the snow, making them great in hard-pack or icy conditions. They are also sturdy in all types of conditions and are versatile without compromising performance.
I don’t really like these skis’ graphics and traditional design, but that’s an aesthetic complaint and doesn’t have anything to do with performance. They are also not the greatest option for larger skiers.
==> You can also get it on SidelineSwap.
3. K2 Mindbender 99 Ti
- Best for: Advanced Skiers
- Key features: High-end performance, solid construction, good at high speeds, fun to ski, very capable
- Sizes: 170, 184
- Ability Level: Intermediate to advanced
- Cost: $$$
If you are an advanced-level skier and want something to keep up with, check out the K2 Mindbender 99 Ti. It is a very capable model that can handle the rigors of just about anything while holding up very well at high speeds.
K2 is one of my favorite ski brands, and they always create high-quality equipment. The Mindbender 99 Ti is an epic all-around high-performer that makes for a fun and hard-charging all-mountain option.
They feature a maple and aspen wood core on top of an upper layer of Titanal that gives the skis a sturdy but fun feel and allows them to tackle wide-ranging conditions easily.
These aren’t a good option for beginners because they are too aggressive, and they are also relatively expensive and not a budget option.
==> You can also get it on Evo or Christy Sports or Outdoor Gear Exchange.
4. Nordica Enforcer 100
- Best for: Speed
- Key features: Fast for all-mountain option, ABS sidewalls, stable and solid, versatile, built to handle anything
- Sizes: 172, 179, 186, 191
- Ability Level: Intermediate to advanced
- Cost: $$$$
If you live for speed, the Norica Enforcer 100 will have you covered. This model is my choice for the best all-mountain ski for speed.
These skis are somewhat wide for an all-mountain type ski, but that extra width only leads to more stability and control. And both of these factors come into play when you want to turn up the throttle.
The Enforcer has a unique construction that comes with a special blend of wood at the core alongside ABS sidewalls and two layers of Titanal. This translates into a stable and solid ride that’s built to handle anything.
The extra width means they’ll excel in big mountain and powder conditions if that’s your preference. They also offer a stable feel at higher speeds and are both durable and high-performance. These skis have a classic feel that makes them a consistent top-seller.
These aren’t a very good option for riding in the park or moguls, and they are also quite expensive.
==> You can also get it on Evo or Utah Ski Gear or Skis.
5. Head Kore 93
- Best for: Lightweight
- Key features: Versatile, easy to control, playful but strong, excellent design and construction
- Sizes: 163, 170, 177, 184, 191
- Ability Level: Beginner to advanced
- Cost: $$$
The Head Kore 93 (review) makes the list as the best lightweight all-mountain option. This can be helpful if you are still new to the sport or prefer skis that are easy to control and maneuver.
The Kore 93 is constructed with a karuba wood core and has carbon and graphene elements built into the tip and tail. That allows for a lightweight feel that also has the strength to carve and charge.
This is a very versatile ski perfect for all-mountain skiers who want the ability to go anywhere at any time. They also have a playful but strong feel that makes them easy to get used to. Their design and construction are both solid.
These are pretty narrow, which makes them not the most incredible option to use in powder conditions.
==> You can also get it on Head or Evo or Utah Ski Gear.
6. Blizzard Bonafide 97
- Best for: High-end performance
- Key features: Very capable, versatile high-end performance, excellent rocker feel, fun and sturdy
- Sizes: 171, 177, 183, 189
- Ability Level: Intermediate to advanced
- Cost: $$$$
The Blizzard Bonafide 97 is an excellent choice for any skier who demands high-end performance. They are another recommend all-mountain option that can deliver in a range of conditions.
These skis are best for advanced and intermediate skiers looking to conquer the mountain and all it can offer. This ski’s versatility is unmatched and results from a beech and poplar core surrounded by two sheets of Titanal.
They also offer a really solid rocker profile for all-mountain skiing and have a fun yet sturdy feel that will keep a smile on your face even when conditions are demanding.
This isn’t a good option for inexperienced skiers because they can be aggressive, and they also come with a higher price tag.
==> You can also get it on Evo or Skis or Buckman’s.
7. Rossignol Black Ops
- Best for: Under $500
- Key features: Affordable, versatile, symmetrical design, strong but fun, poplar wood core, progressive sidecut
- Sizes: 164, 176, 186
- Ability Level: Beginner to advanced
- Cost: $$
If you are looking for a more budget-friendly all-mountain option but don’t want to sacrifice performance, be sure to check out the Rossignol Black Ops.
Rossignol is a well-respected ski brand, and their Black Ops 85 is a fun and functional choice for the everyday skier. It’s a versatile all-mountain choice that performs well in many conditions.
The skis come with a poplar woodcore that keeps them playful yet sturdy, and a progressive sidecut gives you added grip and bite in hard-pack conditions. They are also very capable in powder and freeride conditions.
The graphics could use a little work, and they might be a little too wide for some situations – but the price is right.
==> You can also get it on Rossignol or Curated or Evo.
8. Armada Tracer 98
- Best for: Backcountry
- Key features: Playful feel, unique construction, sturdy, versatile, all-mountain rocker, adaptive mesh laminates
- Sizes: 164, 172, 180, 188
- Ability Level: Intermediate to advanced
- Cost: $$$
The Armada Tracer is a recommended companion for your backcountry adventures. These are lightweight but sturdy and versatile enough to handle any condition that comes your way on the mountain.
These skis are more focused on backcountry and off-piste pursuits, but they can hold up under typical resort conditions. They also have a karuba wood core construction with a mesh laminate that creates a unique design that is both flexible and sturdy.
A solid overall ski that has a fun and playful feel, the Tracer 98 is fun to ride on and capable when you need it to be.
These aren’t the greatest option for typical resort skiing, and they can get a little chatty at higher speeds, but hold their own off-piste.
9. Salomon QST 99
- Best for: Versatility
- Key features: Very versatile, flexible but strong, great for bumps,
- Sizes: 188
- Ability Level: Beginner to advanced
- Cost: $$$
Every all-mountain model on this list is versatile, but the Salomon QST 99 (review) is probably the most versatile of the batch and can hold its own in many different conditions.
They feature a combination of basalt and carbon stringers that run the length of the ski to add rigidity while still allowing for good flexibility.
They are also strong when you need them to be but playful enough to keep a big smile on your face, no matter where you want to roam.
The QST 99 isn’t the best in powder because they are a little thin, and they also leave something to be desired at higher speeds.
10. Atomic Vantage 97 Ti
- Best for: Technical Performance
- Key features: All-mountain rocker, prolite construction, excellent performance it tight spots, quick to turn, laminate grid construction
- Sizes: 180
- Ability Level: Beginner to advanced
- Cost: $$$
The Atomic Vantage 97 Ti (review) is a great all-mountain option for beginner and intermediate skiers looking to improve their abilities. This is because they perform and handle well at moderate speeds, which allows you to utilize that factor while keeping control.
They can still perform well in variable conditions and at speed, but they really stand out with a more balanced and controlled use. That gives them more than capable performance in all-mountain conditions that you can rely on.
The Vantage 97 Ti also does an excellent job of handling in tight spots, allowing you to make quick turns if you get in a bind.
These aren’t the best option for hard-charging skiers, and people with advanced skills will notice some lack of performance.
How to Choose All-Mountain Skis: Buying Guides
Keep the following factors in mind when looking for a quality set of all-mountain skis, as they can help you find a model that best suits your needs.
Construction
When it comes to all-mountain skis, you want something that’s constructed with this skiing style in mind. That means you should look for a strong but flexible construction that can adapt to whatever conditions you might be skiing.
All of the options in this article feature a build that is both sturdy and forgiving. You might want more flexibility if you like the terrain park or moguls, and you might want more strength if you prefer going fast or handling big mountain conditions.
Width
With all-mountain skis, look for a width that sits in the Goldie Locks zone. That means a ski that is not too wide or too narrow. Too wide, and you won’t have the versatility you need to navigate tight spaces, bumps, or the park.
Too narrow, and you’ll struggle to get through powder or thick crud. A medium ski width, around 90-100mm underfoot, is typically a good width for all-mountain situations.
Shape
Concerns in shape ultimately come down to personal preference but can also affect performance. Personally, I like an all-mountain ski that is more symmetrical in design as I prefer to play in the park a bit and ride switch.
If you like to keep your skis headed straight downhill, you might prefer an asymmetrical design. All of the skis found here have differences in shape, and you really can’t go wrong. It just comes down to how you like to ski.
Stiffness
Stiffness is another consideration that has some elements of personal preference mixed with performance. In an all-mountain ski, you want something that’s not too loose or too stiff.
Again, you want it to be in that Goldie Locks zone. A wood core surrounded by some added metal elements will provide a nice stiffness for all-mountain purposes.
Your Skiing Style
All-mountain skiers have a favorite terrain. Consider that when picking out your skis. If you really like powder days, you probably want a wider ski with more camber to float on top of the deep snow.
If you like to stick to the terrain park, you’ll most likely enjoy a ski that’s both small and flexible. All-mountain skis are versatile. However, you can still choose a pair that will work with your preferences and demands.
All of the above skis are great options, but you should consider the weight and flexibility they offer to see how those factors align with the type of skiing you like to do on the mountain.
Useful Tips for All-Mountain Skiing
All-mountain skiing is a great experience that comes highly recommended if you’ve never tried it before. You get the chance to experience all of the different elements that make skiing so fun, but you are not restricted to just one type of skiing.
The all-mountain style affords a sense of freedom that makes it unique and exciting for anyone who explores it.
The right gear goes a long way towards helping you develop your all-mountain abilities. If you want to learn more about what makes a great all-mountain ski, check out this video. Also, if you want some tips on how to be prepared for varied conditions, take a look at this.
Final Verdict
All-mountain skiing is an amazing way to experience the sport. And the Volkl Mantra M5 is the best all-mountain skis you can find. They will let you explore every inch of the mountain and handle any condition that comes your way.
Any of the models you find in the post come highly recommended. Whether you are a beginner or have been skiing for most of your life, there is a good option for everyone here, and you can’t go wrong with many of them.
Do you have a favorite all-mountain ski that didn’t make the list? Why is it so great? Let us know in the comments below.
John Hauner
Glad I came across your website as I enjoy your reviews and writing style. All of your fav all mountain skis seem fairly long for me. I’m just a 5’ 6” guy intermediate skier. Any suggestions? Thanks
Christine
Hi John,
Both the Armada Tracer and Head Kore come with lengths in the 163-64 range that should work pretty well for your size and ability level. There aren’t that many skis in the all-mountain category shorter than that, and if you’re an intermediate level, they should do just fine. One idea is to rent a few different models at the shop and see which you like the best (different lengths, too) before purchasing.
Hope that helps!