Mamba 8.0

The now superseded Mamba 8.0 is a marvellous boat which I first discovered on the Clarence River in New Zealand. I came back to Australia and bought the final 8.0 left in stock and have enjoyed it immensely since. Having said that, I am at best a class 3 creek and river paddler so I can't comment upward.

Some tips. The bung is in the wrong place so it always holds some water. The boat's stability kicks in provided the paddler is forward. The stern rail will catch in heavy water.

I've paddled the newer versions (7.6., 8.1, 8.6) and they have lifted the rear edge, fixed the bung and upgraded the fit-out. And reluctantly I have to say that they are an improvement. But I still have absolute admiration for the Mamba 8.0 - a classic river-runner.

I am 66, size 13 shoe, 175 pounds, 5'11" tall, and have been paddling for 12 years. I have paddled a handful of boats and have owned one other in this category. The Mamba is forgiving, comfortable, OK in flat water, a fair surfer, and a good roller. You should try one in the appropriate size if you can. I am sure other mfr have similar boats that do the same or at least they should.

Awesome boat, easy to roll fun in any river. I own a 8.0 and a 7.5. I am 5'8" and 185 so I'm a little big for the 7.5 but I use it too.