Manta Ray for squats

[guitarlifter]

Awhile ago I started having some upper back prblems that I thought could be due to heavy squats and the pressure of the bar on the spine. I saw an add for this device called the manta ray that is supposed to distribute the load of the bar over a much greater area of the back. I have to say, I highly recomend this device. It takes alittle getting use to, but I feel it actually gives better leg develpment while really being alot easier on the upper back and shoulder (it also somewhat "holds" the bar for you, so your shoulders are not being torqued as much).
I was used to doing low bar powerlifter style squats, and this device forces you to hold the bar high on the back (it also takes alot of the stress off the low back). I can't use nearly as much weight as I did with my old style, but I feel squats alot more in my quads now (as opposed to my butt and lowback).

Anyone else heard of or use this device?
Thanks!

[Wildcat33]

I've heard of it and have been considering buying one. The same company also makes something similar for front squats called the "Stingray".

Does the Manta Ray "snap" onto the bar, or do you need to lay it on your back and back up under the bar?

[guitarlifter]

It will snap onto a standard olympic bar. They are about $35, not a bad investment.

[RHINO]

I have the Manta Ray and Stingray; I could never get the hang of front squats without the Stingray; I'd recommend both. Both snap onto the bar.