Dagger Mamba Creeker 8.1

Size, weight, capacity

At 8’1” (246cm) long, the Mamba is now a fairly short option for a white water kayak, with most boats coming closer to the 9’ mark, but the volume distribution and hull design make up for this shorter stature. A width of 26.75” (68cm) is more than enough to make this a stable and confidence inspiring boat without impacting how efficiently the boat spins.

The Mamba 8.1 weighs just 47lbs (21kg), a relatively easy boat to move around off the water, as well as on.

Paddler weight range for this kayak is 150 – 220lbs (68 – 100kg).

Features

The Mamba 8.1 features one of the best planing hulls on the market, a design which can carry speed through features but also surf and play on the river too. The volume distribution around the cockpit gives the paddler plenty of space to be comfortable and focus on their performance. The rocker profile at the bow and stern give the boat the ability to spin on the spot and make complex moves.

Outfitting is a key component of any white water kayak, and the Contour Ergo outfitting in the Mamba will keep you comfortable and connected to the boat, optimising your control. The padded seat is fitted with an adjustable leg lifter to increase the contact through your knees and a ratchet adjustable backband keeps you supported. Precision adjustable thigh braces, hip pads and an adjustable, bulkhead style foot brace complete the high quality outfitting and ensure you stay in full control of the Mamba.

A step out pillar allows you to safely exit the kayak in difficult situations, while five safety handles are fitted for rescues and moving the kayak around.

Performance

The Mamba 8.1 is a white water kayak which is suitable for paddlers with a wide range of abilities. Beginners will enjoy the primary stability and how easy this kayak is to roll, while experienced white water enthusiasts will benefit from how efficiently the Mamba resurfaces and moves around the river.

The planing hull combines well with the long carving edges to make a boat which can spin on the spot and carry speed well. Unlike some kayaks with larger volume around the cockpit, the Mamba tracks well through white water and isn’t thrown off line easily.

The planing hull and rocker profile mean this kayak punches through features with ease and carves through holes that would be grabbing even larger volume boats.

The Mamba is a great all round river kayak and can do everything. As well as the downriver qualities, it surfs well and carves across standing waves with ease. It can also spin quite well in a hole if that’s your thing!