»Ergonomic Carving Radius«
The patented and award winning geometry, enables the boat to carve faster in and out of upstream gates maximising the power of the water to accelerate Manta Kayaks.
Performance
On the edge (dynamic)
- More surface attack, »Finn Effect« increases forward dynamic
- »Ergonomic Carving Edge« more draft
- Effective design - creates more space under the pole
Flat position (neutral)
- Ergonomic paddle angle (closer to the axis)
- "A-Form" the boat emerges better in waves. Water flows off the deck faster.
- Widest point at the seat, directly at the center of mass.
- improves the response behavior
- hull flow optimized »teardrop shape«
- more volume under the waterline
Benefits
Patented »ECR« Ergonomic Carving Radius
Manta »Beam«
For lighter athletes
Volume: 216 l
Size Range:
- XS 35 – 50 kg
- S 50 – 60 kg
- M 60 – 70 kg
- L 70 – 80 kg
Features:
- Ergonomic Carving Radius
- Great acceleration
- Improved »Push Out«
- Responsive on challenging courses
- Turns on point, edges up effortlessly
- Allows more vertical paddle stroke
Price per configuration on request!
Image Video: Watch Demo
Manta »Jet«
For bigger, heavier paddler
Volume: 230 l
Size Range:
- S 65 – 75 kg
- M 75 – 85 kg
- L 85 – 105 kg
Features:
- Ergonomic Carving Radius
- Extended width, stable
- + acceleration (enlarged surface)
- Dynamic and fast on the inside edge
- More »Push Out« after pivot turns
- Better glide during crossings and sprints
Price per configuration on request!
Image Video: Watch Demo
Ed Wolffhardt
»Manta Kayaks« Founder & Mastermind
4 times Vice World Champion
26 times Austrian Champion in Canoe Slalom, Whitewater and Sprint
»You can never beat the river – you must use its flow«
The »Carving Edge«, which reduces sideways drifting and develops more dynamics in the direction of travel, was fundamental. Compared to other slalom kayaks, we placed the widest point further forward, directly at the center of mass. As a result, most of the volume is exactly where it is needed. At the same time, the »Manta Kayaks« have 5 cm more draft during paddling on the edge. Due to the larger attack surface, the boat accelerates better. Lateral slipping is reduced (»Fin Effect«). Great gliding phases occur during ferries and sprints. There is a cool feeling out of eddies, being pressed even more into the seat, with a force of 1,5 times body weight.
Grand Prix Winner 2024
Austrian Design Award
Patented Geometry
MantaEVOTeam
The International Racing Stable
Synergy is not just a word for us. We are an international racing team of different cultures and generations. We pursue holistic thinking and action – focused on consequence, team spirit and joy of life.
We guarantee targeted support for ambitious »Manta«-athletes, with the aim of to bring them to the world class ...
We offer material support, international coaching in mental and technical areas. Medical care, professional race support are our additional services. Furthermore we organize international training camps for our Team.
At the same time we are developing in the material area and want to strengthen the confidence in the »Manta« brand.
FAQ · Asked Questions
Why do „Manta Kayaks" accelerate better?
Whilst paddling on the edge of the boat, the geometry offers more draft. Thereby there is a much larger attack surface, which uses the power of the water efficiently.
What is the difference to other slalom kayaks?
The geometry. The patented „Ergonomic Carving Radius", the flow-optimized teardrop shape, make the difference. As a result, there is less turbulence, just like a fish.
What are the benefits of the „Ergonomic Carving Radius"?
You use the power of the water optimally. When paddling on the edge, there is 5 cm more draft, a better attack surface for currents, less sideways sliding and more forward dynamics. The volume is directly at the center of gravity and under water. This way you stay responsive and stable, improve the planing phases as well as the dynamics to the front (after „pivot turn"). Other boats have the widest part behind the seat and the volume in the deck.
Will the new geometry help me to improve my racing times?
Yes, Manta Kayaks can help you improve your performance. Through better acceleration, tracking, stability and glide. 0,25 sec. per upstream gate (depends on the eddy).
Are »Mantas« aggressive?
Not at all, because in flat position it is neutral (edges above water level). On the edge, there is forward momentum (»Fin effect« - less lateral drift). You have to find out the right lines and angles.
Do I have to invest a lot of time to be able to handle the new geometry?
Some adjust immediately - for others a few training sessions are necessary. At the same time, you gain experience when you try something completely different. In a short time you discover the right »twist«.
Is a »Manta« harder to paddle?
Little kids can handle it in heavy white water! If you let the boat lie flatter and gradually discover the advantages of the edges, you will be amazed at how much fun this kayak has in store for you. The important thing is that you are able to stabilize your hips, further check out the right angles and lines. Once you have tamed a Manta, you won't want anything else! Find it out how to ride it - it's fun.
What are the benefits of riding Manta?
»Manta Kayaks« improve your performance.
Are the new models better than the old ones?
Indeed, the kayaks have been gradually optimized and perfected. The development of 16 »Manta Kayaks«, decades of experience in kayaking, the cooperation with »Micado Smart Engineering« were crucial. Furthermore, insights from athletes, successful kayakers as well as coaches have been incorporated into the further development. The new kayaks are much easier to paddle and more responsive!
Why should I change the boat?
I feel comfortable in my old kayak. When you work on yourself, you also have to check the material. Feeling comfortable doesn't necessarily mean being faster. Be curious and discover new opportunities. Get out of your »comfort zone« to reach a new level!
How to paddle a »Manta Kayak«?
Let the boat lie neutral at first. Gradually discover the edges. Feel the benefits without using much power. Put the kayak (out of strong eddies) extremely on the inside edge to feel the acceleration. Surf a wave and steer the boat over the inside edge. Discover the gliding ability during river ferries.
How can I become part of the Manta EVO team?
If you ride a Manta Kayak and are ambitious, apply here. A jury will check and decide.
Who is behind Manta Kayaks?
Ed Wolffhardt, former Vice World Champion in canoe slalom and white water racing, develops the models together with athletes and »Micado Smart Engineering« micado.at. Ed is still racing and testing. The models are CAD data based, CNC milled to ensure accurate, hydrodynamic and symmetrical surfaces. Handmade in Europe. Patented and Award Winning International »Big See« Product Design Grand Prix 2024, European Patent EP3192733, Austrian Design Award 2017.
Maintenance
Please be aware of the precautions you should take when you receive your new Connect craft.
Do not expose your craft to the sun for extended periods of time.
Do not expose your craft to excessive heat.
Do not tie your craft down to hard surfaces or with excessive force.
If your craft is damaged, use only a qualified and experienced repairer.
Do not store or transport your craft inside a wet cover at any time.
Contact
»Manta Kayaks«
Design, Distribution & Research
Ed Wolffhardt
Dorfstraße 24 · 9905 Gaimberg · Austria
E-mail: ed@mantakayaks.com
Tel: +43 664 3850483
Partners
Imprint
Ed Wolffhardt · UID Nr: ATU32126909
Dorfstraße 24 · 9905 Gaimberg · Austria
E-mail: ed@mantakayaks.com
Tel: +43 664 3850483
Photos & Renderings:
©Robert Seebacher ©Jan Skiman ©Ed Wolffhardt
©AberJung GmbH ©Martin Lugger
©Totschnig Flo (Photo & Video)