Subkayak D46 Kayak de Carreras y Turismo Recreativo by Tamas Fekete

Oro Artículos Deportivos · 2025

Subkayak D46 Kayak de Carreras y Turismo Recreativo

by Tamas Fekete

A' Design Award de Oro 2025 in Artículos Deportivos
CLIENT: Openend Design Ltd.
Estimated Number of Design Views: 70,732
Verification code D6C239BC3E · Verify this award

Visit Site View at A' Design Award Press Release

Colors

About Subkayak D46 Kayak de Carreras y Turismo Recreativo

El Subkayak D46 está diseñado tanto para turismo como para carreras, con un enfoque en el rendimiento y la estética. Su diseño visual presenta una separación óptica en dos secciones distintas, otorgándole una apariencia reconocible. El kayak admite diversas opciones de personalización mediante el uso de componentes impresos en 3D. Elementos como cubiertas de escotilla del timón y portabanderas pueden producirse bajo pedido, permitiendo ajustes en forma, color o marca. Este enfoque permite a los usuarios personalizar su kayak según sus preferencias individuales manteniendo la funcionalidad y el diseño general.

About the A' Design Award de Oro

Subkayak D46 Kayak de Carreras y Turismo Recreativo ha ganado el A' Design Award de Oro, un reconocimiento inmensamente prestigioso concedido a diseños de primera categoría, maravillosos y sobresalientes. Los ganadores de Oro son creaciones sumamente innovadoras, visionarias y glamorosamente deslumbrantes que reflejan el prodigio, la sabiduría y la destreza de sus diseñadores. Se espera que Subkayak D46 Kayak de Carreras y Turismo Recreativo sea una invención muy elogiada, pionera y monumental que aporta un valor sin precedentes. Este diseño ganador del A' Design Award de Oro es un proyecto espectacular y respetado que beneficia enormemente y hace avanzar las fronteras del arte, la ciencia, el diseño y la tecnología. Subkayak D46 Kayak de Carreras y Turismo Recreativo crea intensos sentimientos de deseo, despierta la pasión, fomenta la creatividad y nos fascina.

Press Kit

Unique Properties: The D46 kayak offerst a two-section design offering enhanced customization options despite being made of a single composite material. Additionally, it incorporates 3D printed components, such as a rudder hatch cover and flag holder, which can be customized according to the buyer's preferences, including logos and a choice of colors. These parts are made-to-order and provide a level of personalization for the owners to express their style while maintaining the functionality of the kayak.
Dimensions & Packaging: 5200 mm x 460 mm x 310 mm

Crafted using vacuum infusion that ensures even resin distribution.
Incorporates foam, fiberglass or carbon fiber, and epoxy-vinylester, balancing durability with light weight.
Customization option from simple color selections to complex paint jobs. Customizable 3D printed components (race number holder, rudder hatch cover), available in any colors and with debossed graphics.

3D Printed parts:
SLS 3D Print: Nylon PA12, Dyed black
MJF 3D Print: Nylon PA12, Any color
Tags: Kayak Design, Racing Kayak, Leisure Kayak, Touring Kayak, 3D Printing, Watercraft, Boat Design, Watersport, Carbon Fiber, Speed
Production Technology: Starting with 3D scanning and reverse engineering one of Subkayak's hand-built kayak for millimeter-precise hull replication to match its hydrodynamic performance. Further development included mood boards, concept sketches, renders and numerous small-scale 3D printed draft prototypes before making the final CAD file with G3 surface continuity for a sculpted aesthetic. CNC machining of a full-size foam model followed, forming the foundation to create the master moulds to manufacture the D46.
Design Challenge: The main challenge was translating a physical kayak's precise hydrodynamics into a digital format with millimeter accuracy, essential for competition eligibility and performance. Using 3D scanning for the complex hull surface and integrating the new design features within strict size regulations required precise A-class surface modeling. The project's success depended on a single 1:1 scale CNC-d foam prototype emphasising the need for precise CAD deliverable to achieve a hand-sculpted look.
Research: Our research included surveys to understand amateur and professional kayak users' preferences in design aesthetics, customization, and cockpit ergonomics. Engaging with kayakers through both direct and online methods, we gathered insights via open-ended questions. Findings reveal a strong desire for customization options to express personal style and the need for a wider cockpit for better fit.
Inspiration: The design of the D46 kayak was inspired by the complex surface and material transitions seen in racing boats and sports cars. The aim was to visually break away from the uniformity aesthetics of single-piece kayaks by using form and color to split the kayak into two distinct sections.
Project Duration: The project started in March 2022 in Budapest and finished in January 2023 in Budapest. Since then It was exhibited in Budapest in the Hungarian Design Awards in October 2023.
Operation Flow: The kayak, being lightweight, is easily carried to the water and placed in. The user then sits in the cockpit, securing their feet on footrests and grasping the paddle with both hands. Propulsion is achieved through alternating paddle strokes on each side, while steering is managed by foot pedals controlling the rudder. This setup enables precise navigation and efficient gliding through the water, allowing for a smooth and responsive kayaking experience.
Image Credits: Image Credits: Tamás Fekete