I've got all kinds of graphite paddles,,,everything from 8" to 8.75". I've never though the width made a big difference. Yes the lightest racing ones are the narrow 8". But one of my favorite ones to take on my solo trips is 8" also. If you get a Zaveral paddle look at his whitewater blade. There's an extra layer in the tip, and the extra weight isn't a big deal.

I'm thinking the light bentshafts are more of a plus soloing. Going to take some straight blades for the tandem this fall. I'm really enjoying using a j-stroke. I'll stick a couple bentshafts in the solo boat. There's 3 of us going.

Zav owns Barton paddles now, but he doesn't produce them much, or promote them either. But for me that's the best tripping graphite paddle. They were made in MN after Greg sold the company and made them on the farm in MI. They're just tougher than most newer models, slightly heavier too, but they'll last. Twist Zav's arm a bit and see if he'll make one for you.