Q&A: Upgrading to a high-end paddle - a few things to consider - Kayaking Tips - Kayak Hipster

[@neil_reynolds]

Good tips. I'll also offer that sometimes an "upgrade" includes a slight reduction in the length of what a new-ish paddler is used to, if they've been handed the recommended paddle based on their height/boat width by a bigger retailer. All the caveats -- paddling style, conditions, kayak style -- apply, but if you're gonna upgrade it's worth borrowing/demoing something a hair shorter just to see. If nothing else it'll confirm you're investing in the correct size.

[@seathrunmagaoinghous4119]

This is so true, I purchased a carbon fiber brand and it did not perform like I expected. A friend loaned me a RPC3 wing paddle. This improved my surfski speed significantly. Thanks for all your videos

[@thomascox8670]

I had a cranked shaft Shuna for a number of years, and loved it. Then I got a carbon wing paddle (in common with many of my sea kayaking buddies here in Sydney Australia), and loved it even more. The wing has been my blade of choice for the past four years. My Shuna is now my spare paddle, and only gets used on rare occasions. The wing gives me more grip on the water, and a bit more efficient stroke. Still good for bracing and control strokes too. Love it!

[@obstoutdoors6558]

Such good points. It takes 1000-1200 (ish) paddles strokes per mile and even an 8 ounce difference in swing weight makes a huge difference. The demo of friend's paddles is a great tip. That's how I fell in love with Greenland paddles. Once you figure out which paddles your want start looking for sales and when you find it be ready to jump on it. Also think about shopping at your local outfitters. Many would be surprised what gems that have in there! Happy Paddling Luke!

[@lifeispaddle5089]

Good to have you back Luke!

[@Dachdogoriginal]

Hi buddy, nice video. I was so fortunate to land the best paddle for me right out of the gate. The kayak shop that I went to at the time had a genius owner who knew his stuff. I shared what my concerns and needs were and he nailed the size. I told him I had chronic pain in my hands so I needed something light weight. He handed me three different shafts. All carbon fiber, one regular size, one small and a small ergonomic. Loved the small ergo. Then he asked what kind of kayak I had. And he sized the length perfectly. It was pricey. But I knew this was critical to my paddling long enough to enjoy the effort. I had to sell my kayak. But I kept my paddle and brought it abroad with me. I will never sell it. The right paddle will totally mean the difference between your enjoyable experience or a lot of work. Thanks!!!

[@KayakHipster]

Great example. Yes, I’ve heard stories of how much difference a well-fitted paddle will make. Thank you for sharing!

[@tonysfishingadventures6725]

Man, I love your videos, very informative as always

[@richardskip]

I agree. I tried a lot of different paddles but always felt back on my old Shuna like aluminium paddle. So I bought one in full carbon. No regrets after many miles. Worth every penny. (lot of pennys)

[@jakebrakebill]

When I started paddling for the first time 4+ years ago I went right to a Werner Kalliste. I found the blades to be on the small side and 6 months later I bought a Ikelos which was perfect. Now 4 years later I just bought a Greenland Kalleq and used it for the first time this morning. ( Funny now to see this video.) Each paddle does something different that I like and I switch between them all. I would never get rid of any of them. To me it's like a good fisherman, he has more than one lurer in his tackle box.

[@mmmbass6068]

Question - better to have your spare paddle in the same style/fit as your primary paddle? Bearing in mind if you really need to use your spare paddle (ie something’s gone wrong with your primary paddle), conditions are likely less than ideal. Thanks, Todd.

[@jasonroberts8128]

I prefer shorter white water paddles. Mines 194cm bent shaft but I love it for in the surf, bracing and rolling.

[@dougshields6702]

Thanks so much for the video! I did a double take when you started talking! Coincidentally, I followed your advice and got the Werner Kalliste last weekend! Really looking forward to getting out there with it. Hopefully over the spring or summer I’ll get a chance to try a Greenland paddle. I’m still very interested in that. Thanks!

[@KayakHipster]

Fantastic! Thank you for the question!!

[@richardskip]

Like your video's a lot!

[@asfdestroyer]

What's a good weight for a nice euro touring paddle? I use Itiwit's x500 which is 900 grams and I didn't feel like it's too much of an upgrade on their 1100g aluminium/plastic paddle

[@stevekuehnle8250]

Thank you for this video. I'm in the market for a new Euro paddle. I bought a Gearlabs Greenland paddle over the winter, I tried it a few times and I seem to like it. Its buying a Euro paddle that has me nervous, I have no idea what I want.

[@Chris-vw3yc]

For me, I prefer a slightly heavier Greenland paddle than a lighter one

[@tonysfishingadventures6725]

Please help me, I’m 220lbs 5.10 dude. Looking to get tsunami 145. Will Werner cyprus 220cm work for me? Or do I need 230cm?

[@PascalSmyth]

I'd aim for a 215 or a 220 based on your height and the width of the Tsunami (25.5"). I'm a little taller and have a slightly narrower boat (Looksha IV) and use a 210 Cyprus so it's not a hard and fast rule.

[@criticalcrab5541]

Good tips and great video as always! I paddle a nice light full carbon paddle, and before that I came from an aluminum shaft/plastic blades paddle. While I wouldn't go back to my carbon paddle I don't think the weight matters as much as you say. I'm not saying you are wrong, it's more than likely that I am. I just wonder how long do you have to paddle before really feeling the difference? I have done all day trips ~50 kilometers with and without my nice paddle and don't feel the benefit from the weight reduction. It also seems like lifting the paddle it's such a small percentage of the power required to drive the kayak forward.