What does everyone use? I'm looking to cut weight and would like some recommendations - price versus weight. I'm sure there are other criteria. Thoughts?

Are you a double paddle user now?

If so, then you already know that to save that weight you going to give-up some degree of "toughness" sort of like you do with a super lightweight graphite paddle.

I’ve been using a double paddle for a long time. I love it and because I value toughness/versatility over just being lightweight, I still have and use my first double paddle and IF something happened to it, I’d buy another.

It’s my 3rd leg on rough area, can double split in two as tarp poles or in one piece as a pole for center of tent. I've used it standing up in canoe, legs braced against portage yolk and POLED my way thru low water areas rather than get out a wade in that cold spring time water.

Lightweight aircraft aluminum so it’s very stiff. It’s drawback is that it’s not light compared to the higher end paddles available, but then it cost so little in comparison that the weight factor isn’t an issue for me, at least not anytime soon.

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The also sell those T-handle adapters and Drip rings too.

I recommend it to anyone that has never used a double paddle or just wants it for certain wind conditions, like a strong headwind or a tailing wind when you want to get somewhere fast.

IF you hate it they sell a T-handle kit for a few bucks and you end up with 2 spare single paddles.

A double paddle for a canoe is going to be longer than a kayak paddle because the canoe is wider and sits higher off the water. IF you get to short a paddle, you end up having to do that high windmill stroke that is very physically taxing in a canoe. You’re also going to be banging the gunnels all the time too.

My double paddle I use in bow seat of tandem canoe siting backwards is 9 FT- 274 CM.

solotripper wrote on Jan 27^th, 2016 at 9:58pm:

Are you a double paddle user now? If so, then you already know that to save that weight you going to give-up some degree of "toughness" sort of like you do with a super lightweight graphite paddle. I’ve been using a double paddle for a long time. I love it and because I value toughness/versatility over just being lightweight, I still have and use my first double paddle and IF something happened to it, I’d buy another. It’s my 3rd leg on rough area, can double split in two as tarp poles or in one piece as a pole for center of tent. I've used it standing up in canoe, legs braced against portage yolk and POLED my way thru low water areas rather than get out a wade in that cold spring time water. Lightweight aircraft aluminum so it’s very stiff. It’s drawback is that it’s not light compared to the higher end paddles available, but then it cost so little in comparison that the weight factor isn’t an issue for me, at least not anytime soon.   (You need to Login or Register The also sell those T-handle adapters and Drip rings too. I recommend it to anyone that has never used a double paddle or just wants it for certain wind conditions, like a strong headwind or a tailing wind when you want to get somewhere fast. IF you hate it they sell a T-handle kit for a few bucks and you end up with 2 spare single paddles. A double paddle for a canoe is going to be longer than a kayak paddle because the canoe is wider and sits higher off the water. IF you get to short a paddle, you end up having to do that high windmill stroke that is very physically taxing in a canoe. You’re also going to be banging the gunnels all the time too. My double paddle I use in bow seat of tandem canoe siting backwards is 9 FT- 274 CM.

Thanks ST! Good information and suggestions as always. I've been a double-blade user for the past couple of seasons. My paddle is an REI special, aircraft aluminum with poly/plastic blades and I've really become accustomed to it and its use.

You mention several things that I call 'adjustments' that have to be made when using and I agree with your observations. I'm still looking to cut weight but will keep my aluminum shaft paddle as a backup.

Good point as well on the longer length needed. I have been a gunwale-banger in the past but I think it's been more of a lack-of-focus than length issue.  ;D

I found these links that might help you in your search for a lighter weight double paddle.

One has a discussion about techniques you want to employ so you’re not “wind-milling” that long canoe double paddle which is what I personally find to be very tiring.

I do a lower flatter version, what I call a “touring stroke”. Once your in that “groove” you know it because you don’t feel like you’re working hard, but your moving along at a good clip.

I couldn’t find the link, but some guy had a video demonstrating that touring stroke in a canoe with the double paddle. Once you see it, it’s easy to duplicate.



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I have used a cheap Carlisle 4 pound paddle for years. Four years ago I treated myself to a Werner Camano all carbon fiber in 260 cm length. At $350 dollars it was indeed a special treat. I still take the Carlisle if the trip is bushwhacking up unknown shallow streams. On better waters the Werner is worth every penny. In researching over forums I learned about "swing weight." Saving a little money by buying a paddle with a carbon shaft and heavier blades disrupts the smoothness of the lightest paddles.

I can paddle all day with the Camano and enjoy it. You will adapt to and get along with most paddles. A trial on the water is the best way to see the difference. Having a GPS to clock your speed is helpful. Paddles with bigger blades may make you think they are faster but the GPS gives the truth.

Most paddle shops do not stock paddles over 240cm but they can tbe ordered. I have found that my Wenonah Prism loaded and my 6 foot height get along dry and fine with the 260cm.

I've heard about the Werner K-1 as well as other lines and they sound like they are well worth it. Others have recommended the Manta Ray paddle by Aqua Bound. I have a Bending Branches Whisper at 230cm for my 6'0 height. Paddling in a 17ft SR perhaps is part of the issue. With a solo boat, the narrower gunwale width and a longer paddle I might not have the same issues.

Quote:

Paddling in a 17ft SR perhaps is part of the issue.

Now that I know you’re paddling a tandem canoe solo, I'll say besides the weight you want to lose, your "issues" are probably 90%+ because you don't have a long enough paddle.
I’m paddling a SR 16 Tandem, so there just about the same dimensions.

My first attempt at using a double paddle was when I was still going with 3 other guys. I had seen a guy using one in solo and thought that from my usual stern paddler seat it would help generate more speed.

I didn’t want to spend big bucks so when Campmor had an 8’-244 cm double paddle on sale, I bought one.
I soon found that because your sitting higher in a canoe and even the bow/stern seat is wider in a tandem than either a kayak or solo canoe, to NOT hit the gunnels you have to do that high-windmill stroke which is very physical ESPECIALLY with a heavy paddle.

A little Google research and I found the problem. You want about a 9’ or so double paddle IF you’re going to be using a tandem canoe solo. That being able to FLATTEN your stroke means more than you realize physically.

I would try the longest kayak paddle you can find that allows you to do that flatter touring stroke. You’ll notice the difference right off.

Even if you go to a lighter paddle, you still want a backup right?
If so, I have a suggestion.  You might even want to try this before you decide on what length newer lighter paddle to get?

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This Mohawk paddle extension “should” fit your aluminum shaft Whisper. Get the one that gets you closes to 9”- 274 cm. You might even find with being able to do that lower touring stroke, that old paddle isn’t as “heavy” as you think it is. For $10 it’s a cheap/easy way to find the exact length you want before you spend bigger bucks. Try and test it in your canoe with a full tripping load because that will make a difference too.

You could even pick up a couple of those T-handle adapters for a few bucks and have even more mix and match options.

Good Luck :)

ST, is this the video link you were having trouble finding?  It is one you kindly sent me some time back.

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MossBack

YES, thanks MB  [smiley=thumbsup.gif]

Obviously you have to adapt for the wider/higher canoe.
I use my packs for the foot braces, but you can buy carbon fiber ones and glue them in your canoe if that works for you.

The stroke is virtually the same EXCEPT with the added width of the LONGER canoe double paddle allows a FLATTER stroke that he's doing, at least MINE is.

He does a real good job of showing how you using more hip rotation than with a single paddle, so you’re going to be using muscles you’re not used too but the trade-off is like in most sports, the  most power is generated thru the hips.

IF you’re just using your arms either single/double paddle, you burn out fast.

The guys that regularly use a double paddle know when you hit that "sweet spot' in your touring stroke.
You’re moving well and it doesn't seem like you’re working hard at all. The HARD part is not to lose that rhythm; at least it is for me. Getting distracted by scenery/animals/picture taking always is a challenge when you’re in God's Country  ;)

No one here has mentioned the Bending Branches Impression Solo.  Comes in 260 and 280 cm and a claimed weight of 44 oz.  I am guessing that is for the 260.  The 280 I bought last year at Copia weighs in at 52 oz. on my scales.  Wish I could report on how it paddles, but the sad truth is I have not had it in the water yet.  Apparently I am not living correctly these days.

Regards,

MB

Quote:

Wish I could report on how it paddles, but the sad truth is I have not had it in the water yet.  Apparently I am not living correctly these days.

  ;D ;D I was wondering what happened to your Gear Report on that double paddle ;)

With all the videos and feedback you must be chomping at the bit to see if you'll like using that double paddle? I sure hope your not disappointed since I been hyping it so much.  ;) ;D ;D

Not to worry ST.  I am always happy to listen to suggestions from people who are out doing it and not just sitting in the recliner thinking about it.  I am trying not to become one of the later.

I sent the 280 home with my neighbor and tripping partner this past summer.  He lives on a small lake and his Malecite is close at hand.  He brought it back a couple of weeks later, apologetic that he had not had time to try it either.  He works 80 to 90 hours a week in the summer, so at least he has a good excuse.

When the weather eases up a bit I need to sort it out. I am taking a solo trip in Mid September.

Thanks for the help.

MossBack

solotripper wrote on Jan 31^st, 2016 at 4:10pm:

Quote: Paddling in a 17ft SR perhaps is part of the issue. Now that I know you’re paddling a tandem canoe solo, I'll say besides the weight you want to lose, your "issues" are probably 90%+ because you don't have a long enough paddle. I’m paddling a SR 16 Tandem, so there just about the same dimensions. My first attempt at using a double paddle was when I was still going with 3 other guys. I had seen a guy using one in solo and thought that from my usual stern paddler seat it would help generate more speed. I didn’t want to spend big bucks so when Campmor had an 8’-244 cm double paddle on sale, I bought one. I soon found that because your sitting higher in a canoe and even the bow/stern seat is wider in a tandem than either a kayak or solo canoe, to NOT hit the gunnels you have to do that high-windmill stroke which is very physical ESPECIALLY with a heavy paddle. A little Google research and I found the problem. You want about a 9’ or so double paddle IF you’re going to be using a tandem canoe solo. That being able to FLATTEN your stroke means more than you realize physically. I would try the longest kayak paddle you can find that allows you to do that flatter touring stroke. You’ll notice the difference right off. Even if you go to a lighter paddle, you still want a backup right? If so, I have a suggestion.  You might even want to try this before you decide on what length newer lighter paddle to get?   (You need to Login or Register This Mohawk paddle extension “should” fit your aluminum shaft Whisper. Get the one that gets you closes to 9”- 274 cm. You might even find with being able to do that lower touring stroke, that old paddle isn’t as “heavy” as you think it is. For $10 it’s a cheap/easy way to find the exact length you want before you spend bigger bucks. Try and test it in your canoe with a full tripping load because that will make a difference too. You could even pick up a couple of those T-handle adapters for a few bucks and have even more mix and match options. Good Luck :)

I am realizing that I need to check my posts more often! Interesting suggestion. I'll check the extensions out. It may have the desired effect that I'm looking for.