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?

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


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. 

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.

Quote:


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

YES, thanks MB 

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