I recommend Bending Branches' Espresso ST.  It's made of black willow (used to be called the Black Widow) and weighs about 19 ounces.  Not superlight but lighter than the usual 24-ounce wood paddle.  I use mine in all conditions except whitewater and it's just fine.  For tripping when paddling bow I use either a Sawyer Kai bent (bamboo and graphite) or a Bell bent, both under 20 ounces.  The Bell looks like the Mitchell Leader   (You need to Login or Register.