All good stuff, solopaddler!

So, this morning, I contacted the fellow who used to be the dealer in MN.  Here's what he had to say:

"Specifically to your inquiry-
1. The Levas paddles are probably the lightest paddle made. They have a smaller blade (as most true racing paddles do) and are designed for higher cadence paddling, which is typical in Marathon canoe racing. Do they withstand wear and tear-yes and no. If you were to compare them to a bending branches paddle, no. But compared to other racing paddles, yes.

There are other heavier carbon paddles which are heavier and more durable, such as the ZRE medium, which also has a larger blade, and is heavier at 12-13 ounces. It’s my preferred paddle for day tripping and early season paddling. Wenonah Canoe also carries a knock off of the ZRE paddle

2. Many racing paddles are made in small shops with maybe 1-2 employees, except Zaveral, which is more of a higher end performance company, uses their carbon fiber shafts in a variety of applications and industries, so the shafts come in 1 length, with grips not attached. We then cut the shafts down, and epoxy the grip on place.

Race boats tend to have less freeboard than touring canoes, and with long shaft paddles, cadence becomes an issue. It’s a lot of paddle to swing around. I’m 6’, and use either a 49” or 50” paddle. Rarely do racers go much longer."

His point #2 explains why the paddle only comes in one size.

Thanks for the Grey Owl referral.  You'll note their "usage" comment indicates "marathon or outrigger racing" as its primary application.

All of this is great food for thought.  Thanks!

Jimbo   8-)