Check for a sweet, fruity smell near the stem
Gently squeeze it; it should yield slightly without feeling mushy
Look for a mostly even color for the variety, not just redness
Avoid mangoes with large black spots, deep wrinkles, or mold
Choose one that feels heavy for its size
Check that the stem end looks slightly plump and not dried out
If it is hard, let it ripen at room temperature
If it is very soft or leaking, it is overripe