Subkayak D46 Caiaque de Competição e Turismo de Lazer by Tamas Fekete

Subkayak D46 Caiaque de Competição e Turismo de Lazer by Tamas Fekete is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award de Ouro in Design de Artigos Desportivos, Fitness e Equipamentos de Recreação Competition Category.

OuroArtigos Desportivos· 2025

Subkayak D46 Caiaque de Competição e Turismo de Lazer

by Tamas Fekete

Client: Openend Design Ltd.

A' Design Award de Ouro Winner in Artigos Desportivos Category

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The Design

About Subkayak D46 Caiaque de Competição e Turismo de Lazer

O Subkayak D46 é projetado tanto para turismo quanto para competição, com foco em desempenho e estética. Seu design visual apresenta uma separação ótica em duas seções distintas, conferindo-lhe uma aparência reconhecível. O caiaque oferece várias opções de personalização através do uso de componentes impressos em 3D. Elementos como tampas de escotilha do leme e porta-bandeiras podem ser produzidos sob encomenda, permitindo ajustes na forma, cor ou marca. Esta abordagem permite que os usuários personalizem seu caiaque de acordo com preferências individuais, mantendo a funcionalidade e o design gerais.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award de Ouro

Subkayak D46 Caiaque de Competição e Turismo de Lazer conquistou o A' Design Award de Ouro, um reconhecimento imensamente prestigiado atribuído a designs de primeira linha, maravilhosos e notáveis. Os vencedores do Ouro são criações extremamente inovadoras, visionárias e glamorosamente deslumbrantes, que refletem o prodígio, a sabedoria e a proeza dos seus designers. Espera-se que Subkayak D46 Caiaque de Competição e Turismo de Lazer seja uma invenção muito elogiada, pioneira e monumental, que oferece um valor sem precedentes. Este design vencedor do A' Design Award de Ouro é um projeto espetacular e respeitado, que beneficia muito e faz avançar as fronteiras da arte, da ciência, do design e da tecnologia. Subkayak D46 Caiaque de Competição e Turismo de Lazer cria sentimentos intensos de desejo, evoca paixão, incentiva a criatividade e fascina-nos.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

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.
Team Members: Tamás Fekete
Image Credits: Image Credits: Tamás Fekete