The prices for wingboards are often not a bargain, so a concept like the Manticore from US manufacturer Slingshot for 959 euros is all the more attractive. The board is available in three sizes (90/105/120 litres) - we tested the size 105 extensively.
On land:
The Manticore is moulded, this construction method makes the attractive price of only 959 euros possible, but also results in a slightly higher weight (WING measurement 8.48 kilos). With a length of 5'8'' (172.7 centimetres), the board is quite stretched, the longer length combined with a flat bottom curve should enable very early planing and take-off. The board is supplied without straps, but has all the plugs on deck to fit the board with two or three straps.
The double rail for mounting the foil is particularly long, so you don't have to worry about not being able to fit the foil you are using. The carrying handle is also well designed.
We also present the Slingshot Manticore Wingboard in a short clip on our YouTube channel. Click in!
On the water:
With its wide bow and stretched outline, the Manticore offers a high degree of stability when dipping. The flat deck also contributes to the fact that even less experienced wingsurf beginners initially feel comfortable on the board. The board was somewhat disappointing when it came to planing: Although the shape suggests good acceleration due to its dimensions and flat bottom curve, it takes a lot of pumping to get the Manticore going. In our opinion, the round tail area prevents better performance - a hard trailing edge would probably help.
Once in the air, the board is stable and flies pleasantly forgiving. The slightly longer nose sends the board back into the air in the event of unwanted touchdowns. In manoeuvres such as jibes or turns, you benefit from the flat deck, on which you have enough space to change feet and which is also equipped with a non-slip deck pad. First jumps are also possible with the Manticore 105, although the board does not qualify as the "freestyle cannon of the year" due to its slightly higher weight.
Slingshot Manticore - the conclusion:
The Slingshot Manticore scores points as an affordable board with a good price-performance ratio for relaxed flights, manoeuvres and first jumps. The board is ideally equipped with cruiser foils (low-aspect). It lacks a little light-footedness when starting off to become an absolute light wind wonder. If you are a more ambitious wingsurfer and also have freestyle tricks on your to-do list, you should opt for the lighter Wing Craft V2 orientate.
Price-performance
Glide-on
No loops
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