Lettmann Machete 85

Lettmann Machete 85: German precision and the “Queen of the Waves” for medium and larger riders

Machete 85: Queen of the Waves with Higher Load Capacity

The Lettmann Machete is an uncompromising half-slice kayak that truly excels on the water. The “85” version brings the best of this award-winning design to a larger size, making it the perfect choice for medium and larger paddlers (up to 120 kg) who prefer a lively and agile boat with ample volume. It’s a machine that rewards an active paddling style and a feel for the water, while remaining stable enough to give you confidence even in more challenging terrain. A playful ride on easy sections, yet fully controlled even in tough whitewater—that’s exactly what the Machete does best.

Hull and Hydrodynamics: Wide, Flat, and Incredibly Playful

The hull design is optimized for maximum efficiency and a fun ride in the current:

• A wide, flat bottom from bow to stern: It provides excellent stability and allows the board to glide smoothly through the waves. The Machete really shines in the waves—it handles spins, blunt turns, end turns, and rocksplats with complete confidence and grace.
• A Rocker's Unique Profile: It allows the boat to emerge from the water in an extremely controlled manner, which is essential for clean, dry, and safe boofs over obstacles or after jumps.
• A "juicier" stern: It allows you to perform pirouettes and spins for hours on end, because the stern dives into the water smoothly and predictably, and the boat immediately returns to the rider’s full control.
• Optimized dimensions (270 cm): They ensure lightning-fast maneuverability in tight passages, while also providing enough length to maintain directional stability and speed.

Features: German precision and functionality

Lettmann insists that equipment must be lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust:

• Aluminum safety handrails: 2 at the rear and 1 at the front of the cockpit for easy transport and rescue in the water.
• Sports Seat 38: Comfortable and ergonomic, it provides plenty of room for dynamic movements during Eskimo rolls and long paddling sessions.
• Backstrap with ratchet: It allows for quick and reliable adjustment of the backrest, which stays in place even during hard impacts and doesn't get clogged with sand.
• Mac 3 Adjustable Thigh Supports (Thin): They ensure precise contact with the board for maximum power transfer and edge control without unnecessary bulk.
• Center Rail and Support Foam: Front and rear foam reinforcements increase the boat's rigidity and passive buoyancy for greater safety.
• Drain valve: For quick and easy drying of the boat after practicing rescue techniques or a longer trip.

Recommended activities: From playful river running to technical whitewater

The Lettmann Machete 85 is a versatile tool for dynamic riders:

• River play and surfing: The Machete 85 excels on the waves, where it handles spins, blunt turns, end turns, and rocksplats with ease and grace.
• Technical descents (WW II–IV): Thanks to its controlled rocker and stability, it can handle even the most challenging sections, provided the paddler is active and trusts the boat's shape.
• Advanced Techniques Training: The ideal board for learning edge control, Eskimo rolls, and dynamic maneuvers for riders who need a little more volume than the 65 version offers.

About the brand Lettmann

A German company Lettmann is synonymous with precision craftsmanship and innovative kayak design. Their products are tested under the most demanding conditions and combine lightness with extreme durability. The Machete 85 model is proof that German quality can combine elegance with fierce performance on whitewater.

Caring for a Polyethylene Shell

Although the Machete 85 is built to be durable, we recommend rinsing the kayak with clean water after paddling in sandy terrain—especially in the cockpit area—to prevent wear and tear on the outfitting. Store the kayak in a shaded area away from constant direct UV exposure. Regularly check that the screws on the thigh pads and the back strap are tight.

Technical parameters and specifications

Bonus program and purchase benefits

When you purchase this top-of-the-line kayak, you'll get 2,801 points to our loyalty rewards program! You can immediately use these points as a discount toward the purchase of a high-quality freestyle paddle, helmet, or neoprene spray skirt. For this model, we offer Free shipping throughout the Czech Republic. We have the boat in stock at our store in Brno, where you can try it out, and we’ll be happy to adjust it to fit your body type before handing it over to you.