For the past months I have been using a paddle I made myself out of a broken section of mast and a 100% carbon blade. I thought this was as good as anything else out there. I was comparing it to other cheap paddles of coarse. Now the paddles that the boards come with are fine, and they work really well don't get me wrong. But if your one of those people (like me) that wants everything to be as good as it can possibly be, I strongly recommend purchacing a top end paddle. C4, Werner and Kialoa make some great paddles. I got a C4 and am blown away at the difference. Visit your local SUP dealer and see what they have to offer, or maybe suggest they get some in. I know SAM at Wind Surf N Snow has a great selection of paddles to show you and I believe he also has a demo one.

I don't want this to seem like you all have to go out and buy an expensive paddle now, but some of you will feel the benefit or just want one to look cool. If your a windsurfer, think of it like a carbon mast. The cheep ones are like a 30% carbon mast and good ones are like a 100% one!

Paddle on,

Regards,

JB

Steve is right, it changes the whole experience. Now I have paddled with my new paddle for some time and I have noticed the joint pain in my shoulders from extended session has gone, a good paddle actually reduces the impact on your shoulder and elbow joints. It must be because they have a gradual flex loading, you nearly get half the stoke out of the paddle it self using the flex. Makes a massive difference, but yes it is expensive, but worth every cent in my opinion.

JB