VIC
627 posts
OK folks...
I've bought, but yet to take delivery of a Starboard XL high aspect carbon paddle.
I know what my ideal paddle length is for flat water/cruising/downwind which is all I do when it comes to a conventional paddle (81"/2057mm). Given the high aspect paddles are a deeper/narrower blade than the conventional, do I replicate the dimension from the top of handle to top of blade as opposed to an overall length? I.e. if the new Starboard paddle is 2"/50mm deeper than my conventional paddle, should the overall paddle length increase by a similar amount? I'm being advised that the paddle length shouldn't change, but that doesn't make a lot of sense.
I understand there's a trend towards shorter paddles, but as many know, it's a pretty expensive f^&k up if you don't get it right.
Appreciate your advice!
Thanks
Magilla
VIC
3982 posts
You definitely want the whole blade in the water with the high aspect so that means it is NOT simply a matter of making the length from bottom of blade to top of handle exactly the same as your other paddles. As you say, it's an expensive mistake to cut it too short so go conservative to start with - make it at least 2 inches longer than your previous paddle length and then work it from there. It's held together with hot glue so easy to heat, pull apart, trim a bit more and give that a try.
VIC
627 posts
As I thought PT. Thanks for the advice!
VIC
17570 posts
I agree with PT.. It's the same with the new Kialoa Hulu Sm paddles.
VIC
627 posts
Looks like the view is unanimous!
I appreciate your help DJ
