Windsurf MagazineGA MANIC 5M TEST REVIEW 2025

GA MANIC 5M TEST REVIEW 2025

The Verdict

Versatile and dependable, the Manic is an exciting wave sail that delivers power and stability in an impressive package. The Manic will support all wave sailors in any conditions; from down-the-line wave riding to fierce storms, onshore or even a freestyle session.

The Lowdown

Straight out of the bag, unrolled and rigged, the GA Manic looks stunning. Its shimmering red body subtly glistens in the light, with orange detailing and a darker blue luff. The GA Manic will draw attention on a grey day while riding, as well as in glorious sunshine that will enhance its colourway. The Manic is GA’s hardcore wave sail, designed to provide stability and plenty of power, with the ability to perform and hold its own in a range of wave-riding conditions. Its increased luff curve contributes to these attributes. An elite Dacron luff panel extends up the luff, while carbon load stringers radiate from the clew to distribute load, manage twist, and enhance stability. 5mil X-Ply is used in the foot of the Manic, while 2mil X-Ply is employed up top to reduce weight. Two clew eyelets allow the rider to choose between more control or more power. As expected, GA has placed abrasion-resistant or padded reinforcements in areas prone to wear, such as the clew, tack, and foot. Plenty of batten overlap and room for expansion are present when the Manic is at rest, ready to deliver direct power to the rider’s fingertips. Not only does it look good, but the Manic doesn’t overcomplicate things and is designed to deliver power.

Brand Claim

“Whether you’re into jumping, wave riding, or tackling big waves, this sail is your ultimate companion.”

Performance

“Very dependable” springs to mind when you’re up and on the board with the Manic in your hands. While it’s slightly heavier than some alternatives, it’s not hinderingly so. The Manic feels solidly built and ready to carry you into the action. Power is delivered purposefully—it’s there to be used, and it wants to be used. The rider is required to react, move, and direct the sails power though the board, bringing it up to speed efficiently. The power is stable, and the Manic naturally adjusts to gusts and lulls. Its luff curve contributes significantly to this supportive trait, ensuring the rider is never thrown off balance. The Manic’s impressive wind range allows riders to excel in various conditions, it is a very versatile sail. On the way out, the Manic drives you towards ramps, if that’s your priority, propelling you into forward and backward loops where the sail feels very neutral throughout. Its stable and powerful nature persists when matching the pace of a wave. The feel of the Manic remains neutral, with positive power at your fingertips. This power can be accessed quickly and easily to amplify your performance, whether you need accelerate to chase a section or extra force off the top of a turn to pull you back down the wave’s face. If you want something from it, the Manic will give you it back and deliver high-performance across various conditions. The Manic’s compact sail window is well positioned to spot sections down the line, helping you set up a well-timed, powerful approach to the lip. Dependable and always supportive, the Manic champions every move and choice the rider makes. It’s a wave sail that can truly take you anywhere.