SmallRig Tribex Monopod Prototype Unveiled – Hydraulic Lock, X-Clutch, Modular Options

by Alexandra ThompsonSeptember 14^th, 2025

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At IBC 2025, we stopped by the SmallRig booth where Manny Moreno walked us through the latest addition to the Tribex line: a prototype monopod developed in collaboration with YouTuber Gene Nagata, aka Potato Jet. The Tribex series has already drawn attention with their tripod designs, and now SmallRig is testing the waters with a monopod that carries over the same X-Clutch handle and hydraulic locking system, but in a streamlined, one-stick form.

The Tribex line began with tripods, developed together with Potato Jet, and quickly became one of SmallRig’s most recognized designs. What started as a single product has grown into a series, with the new monopod carrying forward the same ideas of speed, modularity, and operator-focused handling.

Hydraulic lock and quick setup

Manny demonstrated how the hydraulic lock works with a simple squeeze to release and a one-press to lock, making height changes quick and fluid with one hand. This feature is aimed at operators who need to move fast on set without having to fiddle with twist locks – just press and adjust.

Top plate and base design

At the top, SmallRig is using a quick release plate that’s close to Arca-Swiss, but with guiding pins and a rotating lock for extra security. Once pressed down, it snaps into place and you’re ready to go, though a final hand-tighten is still recommended.

The base has its own clutch system, allowing the monopod to swivel and lean for flexible positioning, then lock back in with a press. Manny explained that Potato Jet has been closely involved in shaping the design, from experimenting with carbon fiber patterns to refining how the camera sits on the mount. That collaboration, combined with feedback from U.S. and Asian markets, has pushed SmallRig to explore variations such as a spherical ball instead of three folding feet, since in some regions three feet would legally classify the monopod as a tripod. At IBC, they’re continuing to gather European feedback before locking in the final version.

Payload, prototype stage, and next steps

The designated payload is around 40 lbs (16–17 kg), enough for fully rigged setups like Sony FX6, RED Komodo, or DSMC2 bodies. Manny was clear that this is still a prototype, with load testing ongoing in Shenzhen, but said that normal camera weights shouldn’t be an issue, as part of the process now is ironing out the exact configurations filmmakers want, for example, head or no head, feet or no feet, and what accessories should ship with it.

Price and availability

SmallRig is targeting a sub-$400 price point, with final development expected to wrap up by the end of 2025 and shipping no later than Q1 2026. For more information on SmallRig products, please see their website.

The Tribex monopod carries over the DNA of SmallRig’s earlier tripod designs but adapts it for operators who want speed, flexibility, and a modular approach. Whether this prototype becomes the go-to stick for run-and-gun or event work will depend on the feedback SmallRig gathers now.

Do you prefer a monopod with folding feet, a spherical ball base, or no base at all? Is a 40 lb payload more than you’d ever need, or do you regularly push close to that weight with your setups? Let us know in the comments!