REAL Watersports, a kiteboarding and surfing shop founded in 2001 out of Cape Hatteras, NC, recently reviewed the MANERA S-FOAM helmet. Founder, Matt Nuzzo, covered sizing, durability, protection, and his overall first impressions of the helmet.
Discover the S-Foam Helmet
We always refused to make bulky, hard helmets because they are very uncomfortable to wear in the wind and horrible to surf with. They could even be dangerous as they make the impact in the water even harder for your neck.
The S-FOAM helmet uses an innovative material that allowed us to create a soft, fitted helmet that is very comfortable to ride with.
These essentials are weapons against the elements. They are designed to make you ride longer & in more comfort whether it’s to fight the cold, the wind or the UV rays.
You can ride without but you’ll always feel better with them!
Magma Plus Technology
Our MAGMA material is one of the warmest on the market. Besides, it is highly stretchable, which brings an unmatched freedom of movement to the suits.
Its plush loops work as effective insulators and heat generators while providing a smooth and soft feeling that makes the suit incredibly comfortable. It also dries extremely fast.
The MAGMA GLOVES
MAGMA gloves are preformed for a better grip in the hand and to avoid forearms fatigue. Outside glide-skin is waterproof and windproof to fight wind-chill effect, while the inside is lined with our MAGMA fleece for an unbeatable warmth and fast drying.
The glove has a “donut” cuff to avoid water flushing. We have implemented a V reinforcement in the cuff so you can pull to put it on without damaging it.
Most of us delay the “boots time” as much as possible: We feel like we lose the board feeling, we’re less precise, our feet slide inside… Many reasons that pushed us to design our own range.
We offer boots for those who don’t like boots: They keep you warm and comfy, but they are made to be forgotten once in the water while still offering great foot support.
XTEND hood is built in the same material as our XTEND wetsuits: It is made to be forgotten while keeping you warm. Its flexibility and lightness allow a very good mobility, this is the perfect accessory if you don’t like bulky hoods.
The XTEND inside layer is the most flexible material you can find on a suit, it makes you feel stretch and light, with a good feeling on the skin.
Protecting your head is key to a good session, but also in the long term to prevent “surfer’s ear”. Hoods are often not the most adapted tools for wind sports, as they can be kind of restrictive when you are always looking right or left.
The Seafarer Cap is a light and comfortable thermal protection that will save you from brain freeze on these chilly days.
We always refused to make bulky, hard helmets because they are very uncomfortable to wear in the wind and horrible to surf with. They could even be dangerous as they make the impact in the water even harder for your neck.
The S-FOAM helmet uses an innovative material that allowed us to create a soft, fitted helmet that is very comfortable to ride with.
MANERA is a proud sponsor of the Central Coast BoardRiders Club. We are always here to support the local surf communities, and are grateful to get the opportunity to be apart of this growing boardriders movement!
We headed up to Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo to watch the annual US BoardRiders Morro Bay at The Rock comp go down. It was a great day full of high level surf from clubs all over CA, as well as good energy from the local surf community. We were stoked to see the Central Coast BoardRiders Club take the win at their home break, Morro Rock.
We got with one of the main coaches Steve Denham after the club took the win:
“A solid 8+ double whammy by @braden.joness in the final 20’s division iced the win. Stoked on the whole team and club. Special thanks to our sponsors @maneraamerica, @woolyspb, @dornsbreakers, @cayucoscollective, @besteverpads, @805beer. The future is local, see you in Santa Cruz.”
At MANERA, we are a family. It is not some overused marketing cliché, but rather a fact of life.
Whether it’s out on the water or in this business, we don’t forget our family and friends. In the early days of MANERA, a small network of shops and salespeople in the community helped us grow to where we are today. They have our loyalty, and vice versa.
To protect and maintain this friendly ecosystem, we have stayed true to the local shop model for our sales approach. This includes both shopping, and supporting LOCAL.
Another huge congratulations to Central Coast Boardriders. Keep making MANERA proud!
Shop the suits to keep you warm all year long.
The MAGMA is made for cold and windy winter days. Its MAGMA+ fleece acts both as an insulator and heat generator, and dries 30% faster than a classic fleece.
American Surf Magazine sat down with MANERA surfer Pete Devries, a nine-time consecutive Canadian Men’s Champion and winner of 2009 Cold Water Classic from British Columbia. Pete, titled “the ultimate cold-water surfer”, took some time to get into the characteristics and benefits of the ALT wetsuit.
The Alt Range — ALT stands for Alternative — is a greener alternative to conventional wetsuits with performance in mind.
Each wetsuit is made from 100% natural YULEX rubber. Because natural rubber is a renewable resource, it ensures a reduced environmental impact as well as a long-term supply stability.
“If there’s anyone who knows wetsuits, and if there’s anyone who knows Manera’s wide range of wetsuits — including the Alt Range — it’s Pete.” (ASM)
A glimpse into the Q & A session:
ASM: “What are a few qualities of Manera’s wetsuits overall that stand out to you?”
Pete: “I think the biggest thing that stands out about Manera’s wetsuits is the durability. They are just so solid — and made to last.
I’ve never once had a seam open up or blow out in the 5 or so years I’ve been wearing Manera. The craftsmanship is great!”
ASM: “The wetsuit market today is crowded with products. What differentiates Manera’s wetsuits from other options?“
Pete: “With Manera, there is enough stretch, durability, and warmth. It’s really the perfect combination. If you want a suit that feels great and actually lasts I’d suggest you give Manera a try.
The thing I hear time and again is how with certain brands on the market they feel amazing when you first put it on, but after two months the suit is completely blown out and over stretched … then the seams start to go. Manera’s wetsuits just last.
I’ve talked to a bunch of people in the lineups around home that love them and are super happy to have given them a chance.”
ASM: “The Yulex Pure is natural plant based rubber that is a cleaner alternative to petroleum. Do you have any thoughts on this topic, knowing that you’re surfing in sustainable and green-product compared to other wetsuit companies?“
Pete: “I think anything we can do as individuals to impact the environment in a positive way is amazing.
It’s no secret traditional neoprene is not good for the environment, so anything we can do to get away from it is great.
I’m happy Manera takes pride in working to make products that are more environmentally sustainable. Hopefully one day the whole wetsuit market will be more sustainable.”
ASM: “Wetsuits have to be flexible to allow you to do what you want on a wave — as far as flexibility and performance are concerned, what are your thoughts about the suit?“
Pete: “I really feel like they are the perfect combination of flexibility, performance and durability. There is a fine line between each and I am really happy with the way they feel.
After an amazing season with five freestyle events worldwide, we are stoked for Swiss Manera & F-One team rider, Maxime. He finished off the ’23 competition season with two second places, and a final third on podium at the 2023 Qatar Airways GKA Freestyle Kite World Champions.
Maxime says,
“Feels good to stand on the box after missing it very slightly in the last couple of years! See you next year beloved kiteboarding!”
romantsovaphoto
Major Congratulations to Maxime! We can’t wait to see what next season brings.
Check Out Maximes’ Gear Favorites
HALO HARNESS – KITE
It all started from an analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of current harness technologies, regarding in particular the softshell (the classic flexible harness) and the hardshell (the rigid shell harness).
By separating the functions of “effort management” and “comfort”, we have created a harness that adapts perfectly to your body type and your movements, while offering unparalleled support.
Best of both worlds, the 4.3mm X10D allows unrestricted movements while keeping you warm during mid-season.
The X10D is the ultimate performance wetsuit. In addition to excellent thermal protection, the X10D fleece interior gives flexibility and lightness while providing great comfort. It is perfectly adapted to any discipline where you need maximum flex because of its ability to follow the body’s movements.
Designed, built, and tested to follow the most hardened of seafarers. Those who can’t resist the call.
For the most passionate. For the early risers who hit the spot at dawn, for the ones who rage until nightfall. For those who live with constantly salty skin, for the loners who venture far from the coast. For the madmen who simply can’t resist the call.
The Collection
Wing Harness
We have developed light and adaptable harnesses with a low profile.
Harness or belt, choose the option that fits your needs.
The Lift Harness -Wing
For us at MANERA, a wing harness is there to go unnoticed when free flying while providing the necessary support to go back upwind. That’s why we have developed a light and adaptable harness with a low profile. See it as a “lift” back to the top of the downwind!
Having one leash on your wrist and the other one on your ankle can be tricky to manage, especially in strong winds. The LEASH BELT is made to attach your wing or board leash when wing, surf or SUP foiling. It has a very strong construction and provides multiple attachment points.
All the spare parts you need to equip or complete your wing harnesses.
You think winging doesn’t require a harness, until you get a taste of free flying. Then you want to go upwind as much as possible and enjoy the feeling of gliding downwind effortlessly.
Our WING HOOK will help you do just that. It is adaptable to any wing harness/leash belt that has a 50mm large front strap.
The S-FOAMhelmet uses an innovative material that allowed us to create a soft, fitted helmet that is very comfortable to ride with.
We always refused to make bulky, hard helmets because they are very uncomfortable to wear in the wind, and horrible to surf with. They could even be dangerous as they make the impact in the water even harder for your neck.
“Temps have dropped and it’s time to pull on the ol’ 4/3. With its iconic fit, quick dry capability, and overall comfort, the Seafarer Steamer should be your top pick.”
Keep reading to learn more about Joshs’ experience with the Seafarer suit.
Wray Surfing Morro Bay
Stay Salty And Comfortable
“Salty is a feeling that anyone who’s spent time in the ocean understands. But, it’s more than just a feeling. It’s a way of life for some of us, including MANERA, a family-owned water sport manufacturer known for supporting local shops. Born and raised in France, MANERA was created to being in the water a true pleasure. This idea runs though their entire line-up of water sports gear– and with customers like me, too.”
Wray surfing the Bend river wave in the Seafarer suit
When The Suit Fits
“I love that MANERA works closely with local shops for sales. I grew up near a surf and skate shop in San Diego, and the smell of wetsuits is something I’ll always love, wherever I go. It will always brings me back to my roots.
Like a number of brands making larger efforts towards recycled materials and less toxic manufacturing, MANERA has stepped up the game with their Stay Green mindset. This means they don’t overproduce, repair products when possible, and make the highest-quality products that stay out of landfills.”
3D Printed for the 4D Surfer
“The Dream Quiver”
“MANERA nailed it with the Seafarer Steamer, both in usability and design. If you’re looking for a suit that truly feels like a glove (thanks to the 3D design that’s proprietary to MANERA), allows for easy paddling, and keeps you warm or a large part of the year, I’d recommend hopping on your banana board or e-bike (if you live in San Clemente) and cruise to your local shop to try one on.
If you’re ever in the San Diego area, keep an eye out for Austin and ask him about the wetsuits. He’ll probably be sporting a camera with a long lens chilling on top of the blue MANERA van.”
The SEAFARER brings us back to the essentials of what makes a good wetsuit, nothing more, nothing less: warmth, comfort, durability. It’s a no-bullshit wetsuit with MANERA’s renowned fit and construction.
On Sunday, September 3rd, Relic Surf Shop in Ucluelet hosted a ‘Surf Rummage’ flea market. The event kicked off at 10 am as community members set up their tables, transforming the shop into a bustling marketplace.
At 5 pm, a raffle drew attention, featuring generous surf prizes donated by Relic Surf Shop and Manera, along side other big name sponsors such as Reef, Vissla, KT, Rip Curl, and Vans. The raffle offered a chance for attendees to score some fantastic surf gear.
In the evening, the crowd gathered for a screening of Quicksilver’s ‘Repeater,’ providing surf enthusiasts and movie buffs with some cinematic entertainment.
The best part? All proceeds from the event went to support Surfrider Pacific Rim, contributing to the protection of our coastal environment.
Relic Surf Shop’s ‘Surf Rummage’ flea market was not just a fun day out but also an opportunity to give back to the ocean we all cherish. It was a memorable event for everyone who attended, and we were stoked to be a part of it!
