Cabrinha Mantis Apex vs Mantis V6 (2026): Which Wing Should You Buy for UK Conditions?
Quick answer: Choose the Cabrinha Mantis Apex 2026 if you want the most premium feel, lighter handling and a faster, more reactive wing for performance freeride. Choose the Mantis V6 2026 if you want the most versatile, predictable “daily driver” wing for gusty UK freeride sessions.
- Best for performance feel: Mantis Apex 2026
- Best all-round choice: Mantis V6 2026
- Best for progressing riders: Mantis V6 2026
- Best if you hate arm fatigue: Mantis Apex 2026 (lighter feel)
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Key takeaways (UK conditions)
- Apex feels lighter in hand and more reactive when pumping, accelerating and turning.
- V6 feels calmer and more predictable when the wind is gusty and the water is messy.
- If you want one wing to cover most sessions, V6 is usually the safer pick.
- If you’re chasing premium feel + performance, Apex is the upgrade.
Mantis Apex 2026 vs Mantis V6 2026 (at a glance)
Mantis Apex 2026
Premium freeride feel • lighter handling • faster response
Mantis V6 2026
Do-it-all freeride • predictable control • great in gusts
What’s the difference between the Mantis Apex and the Mantis V6?
The difference is feel and intent. The Apex is the premium performance option with a lighter, more responsive feel, while the V6 is the versatile freeride benchmark built to feel stable and predictable across the widest range of riders and sessions.
Feel on the water
- Mantis Apex: more “direct” and reactive when pumping and changing direction; feels sharper through transitions.
- Mantis V6: more composed and forgiving; easier to keep calm in lulls/gusts and messy water.
UK gust-handling
If you ride a lot of gusty coastal wind, the V6 tends to feel easier session-to-session. The Apex rewards more active trimming and gives back efficiency and response—especially when powered.
Mantis Apex vs Mantis V6: comparison table
| Category | Mantis Apex 2026 | Mantis V6 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Performance freeride riders chasing premium feel | Everyday freeride, widest range of riders |
| Handling | Faster response • more reactive | Balanced • predictable • calm |
| Fatigue | Lighter feel helps on long sessions | Stable feel • great “set and ride” comfort |
| Gusty UK wind | Efficient and lively (best with active trim) | Forgiving and consistent (easy confidence) |
| Buying advice | Choose if you value performance feel and responsiveness | Choose if you want the most versatile, safe pick |
Mobile tip: swipe the table left/right. The left column stays visible as you scroll.
Which wing should you buy?
- Buy the Mantis Apex 2026 if you’re intermediate–advanced and you want premium feel, faster response, and a more reactive freeride wing.
- Buy the Mantis V6 2026 if you want the most versatile freeride wing with predictable control in gusty UK conditions (ideal as your “main wing”).
Wing size guidance for UK wind
- Most UK freeride days: many riders live on a 5.0–5.5m “do-it-all” size.
- Lighter wind / bigger riders: consider 6.0–7.0m for earlier take-off.
- Windier / lighter riders: 3.5–4.5m gives more control and less fatigue.
- Board + foil matters: bigger board volume and larger front wing usually lets you size down.
Want a fast recommendation? Message your weight, typical wind, board volume, and foil front wing size via Contact.