Manta – The Sun Sail as Architecture
Sun sails are among the most versatile forms of sun protection. Unlike umbrellas or pergolas, they combine protection with a strong aesthetic impact: the taut fabric defines space, creates perspectives, and fundamentally changes the perception of an outdoor area. The Manta collection by Unopiù takes this principle to a premium level.
Each Manta sun sail is supplied with laminated wood posts as well as ropes, pegs, and rope tensioners – the sail and its mounting system come as a complete concept.
Design and Form Language
Manta is not a sun protection product that hides away. The taut sail is a visibly present element that actively shapes the garden design. The clean lines of the posts and the geometric shape of the sail create accents and create architecture in the open air. Manta is therefore suitable not only as protection, but also as a design tool.
Products in the Manta Series
The Manta series includes diamond-shaped sun sails in 400×400, 500×500, and 565×565 cm, including the Manta sun sail 400×400 cm as an entry-level option, as well as a large hexagonal sail measuring 1315×1264 cm. Each sail includes laminated wood posts, ropes, pegs, and rope tensioners. All products are available on the Manta collection page.
Use in the Garden and on the Patio
Manta is suitable for large patios, pool areas, and restaurant grounds seeking striking sun protection with a strong visual presence. The system is less suitable for narrow, winding areas and develops its effect on open spaces, where the posts and sail are fully visible.
Manta in the Context of the Unopiù Brand
Manta complements the Unopiù sun protection range as a design alternative to umbrellas and pergolas. While Lipari covers the classic umbrella range and Shibuya offers the mobile pergola, Manta occupies the segment of large sun sails. All Unopiù collections are available on the brand page.
Technical Specifications – Manta Sun Sail
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Max. sail dimension | Diamond sail up to 565 × 565 cm; large sail 1315 × 1264 cm |
| Sail shape | Diamond (standard sizes), hexagonal (large sail) |
| Sail material | 100% acrylic fabric, solution-dyed (large sail: polyester with PVC coating) |
| Post material | Laminated wood (Ø 6.8 cm, height 300 cm; large sail 9 × 9 cm, height 400 cm) |
| Support system | Two posts included (large sail: three); remaining corners at existing mounting points |
| Post anchoring | Ropes, pegs, and rope tensioners (included) |
| Origin | Italian manufacturer Unopiù (since 1978) |
Comparison: Sun Sail vs. Sun Umbrella vs. Pergola
| Feature | Manta Sun Sail | Lipari Sun Umbrella | Pergola (Shibuya) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shading area | Very large – 400×400 to 565×565 cm, large sail up to 1315×1264 cm | Medium – up to 400×400 cm | Medium to large |
| Aesthetics | Architectural, striking | Classic, subtle | Architectural |
| Mobility | Posts permanently anchored | Umbrella mobile | Mobile (wheels) |
| Rain protection | Limited – sun sail | Limited | Good – enclosed roof |
| Suitable for | Large areas, pool, restaurant | Dining, lounge | Patio |
Care Instructions – Manta Sun Sail
- Cleaning the sail: Brush the sail fabric occasionally; if necessary, wash with neutral soap at a maximum of 30 °C without spinning. No aggressive cleaners – they damage the fabric's UV protection coating.
- Drying: Store the sail completely dry or rolled up – moisture promotes mold formation in the fabric.
- Wiping the posts: Clean the laminated wood posts occasionally with a damp cloth.
- Checking tension: Check the sail tension and mounting points once a year. A loose sail can flap in the wind and cause damage.
- Wind: Remove the sail in strong winds (storms). Taut sails can be damaged by extreme wind loads.
- Winter storage: Remove the sail and store it clean and dry. Cover the posts or store them away if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Manta Collection
What is required to set up a Manta sail?
The sail is tensioned to the supplied posts and existing fixed points such as a wall, a mature tree trunk, or a beam; ropes, pegs, and rope tensioners are included. The mounting points should be determined before purchase.
How quickly can Manta be assembled and disassembled?
A Manta sail is not an umbrella that can be opened and closed several times a day: It is positioned once and then remains taut. It can be removed in storms.
Is Manta suitable as a replacement for a pergola?
Manta and pergolas serve different functions. The Manta sail offers sun protection with a striking look, but it is not a complete roof. For permanent weather protection, we recommend a pergola such as the Unopiù Solaire or Shibuya.
What surfaces can Manta posts be anchored to?
Ropes, pegs, and rope tensioners are included; the manufacturer does not specify any further surface requirements. Please contact us before planning to determine which mounting method is suitable for your area.
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→ Go to the Manta Collection – all products at a glance
Other collections: Unopiù brand overview | Material guide
