Aqua Bound Manta Ray Hybrid Versa‑Lok Adjustable Kayak Paddle
by: Aqua Bound
$199.95
| /
NEW for 2023! High-angle horsepower for more control and heavily loaded boats, the Manta Ray Hybrid delivers flutter-free efficiency and a premium adjustable length ferrule.
- Redefined, stronger blade. The new blade shape provides a smoother forward stroke with less chances for flutter, stiffer feel, and quieter entry and exit. The upgraded fiberglass + nylon blade material is stronger (meaning less flex) and thicker, making it more durable and robust long-term.
- Fiberglass-reinforced nylon blades are designed for forgiveness and just the right amount of flex, keeping the kayak moving efficiently even with extra gear slowing you down.
- 102.5 sq. inch blade it the ideal size for quick boat maneuverability, while the sharp dihedral provides a silky-smooth forward stroke with zero tolerance for fluttering, preserving your energy for longer paddling trips.
- The traditional “oversized” blade design provides better horsepower and control, most commonly associated with high-angle forward strokes and those doing flatwater kayaking, packrafting, racing, and kayak fishing.
- 100% carbon shaft is the lightest material available, so paddling is less fatiguing and more enjoyable on longer trips. The carbon weave is tight and secure, making it one of the strongest options available.
- The shaft is ovalized where the hands go for more comfort and control, and to limit the chances for blisters.
- Versa-Lok offers 15cm of additional length and infinite feathering options, and does so with an easy to use and understand system that is secure (no disengagement), robust (will hold form for a very long time), and resistant to corrosion (nylon plastic and stainless steel parts).
- The Versa-Lok clamping system is backed by structural and cyclical testing, plus a decade of on-water use.
- Carbon ferrule insert is light, tight, and right for the long haul. This is a sizable upgrade over plastic or glass ferrule inserts.
- Featuring two color options: Sunset Red, the ideal companion for an evening paddle trip, and the best selling option in white.
- Proudly hand built in Osceola, Wisconsin, USA, by a team of paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Blade Material: abXII Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon
Blade Size: 7.5 x 18 in. (19 x 46 cm)
Blade Surface Area: 102.5 sq. in. (661 sq. cm)
Weight: 32 oz. (907 g)
Ferrule Angles: Infinite
SIZING:
When determining paddle length, the kayak width is the limiting factor for recreational kayaking. The sizing chart below should ensure you aren't hitting your knuckles on the hull as you paddle. For sleeker touring/sea kayaks ones paddling style and physical size plays more heavily.
| Kayak Width | Under 23" | 24" to 28" | 29"-33" | 34"+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paddler Height | Recommended Paddle Length | |||
| Under 5'5" | 210-220 cm | 220-230 cm | 230-240 cm | 250 cm |
| 5'5" - 5'11" | 220 cm | 230 cm | 230-240 cm | 250 cm |
| 6'+ | 220-230 cm | 230-240 cm | 240-250 cm | 250-260 cm |
In a sit-on-top kayak, if the seat is raised 6" or higher above the base, add 10cm in length.
An easy way to measure in the field is to hold a paddle horizontally in your hands with your elbows slightly inside a 90 degree angle (most paddles are ovalized in the area they should be gripped). Your hands should be about two-thirds of the way between the center of the shaft and the shoulder of the blade. Again, always take stroke angle and boat width into consideration, and demo the paddle whenever possible.
Aqua Bound builds strong paddles and have one of the lowest breakage rates in the industry, but we know the unthinkable can happen. When it does, Aqua Bound will honor all reasonable requests for repair or replacement. Aqua Bound paddles are guaranteed against manufacturing defects for two years from date of purchase.
For the fastest resolution, please visit Aqua Bound and fill out this form (external link) to the best of your ability to start your claim. An Aqua Bound customer service representative will review your case and respond shortly.
Visit Aqua Bound for more information: aquabound.com/pages/warranty-and-repairs.