Need some help with a SUP Paddle. I've picked up a Niash Nalu 10'6" second hand but now need to get a paddle.

I will be doing mostly flat water work, with maybe 30% surf. Should I go full carbon or is a carbon shaft with composite paddle head OK? How big should the paddle head (sorry if the terms are incorrect - im new to this) be? I would prefer to keep the cost around $250 - but will spend up to $350 if I will get a lot more benifit from the paddle and it will last longer. You advice is appreciated!

Also any models/brands you can recommend?

Thanks!

RogerRoger said..
If it makes any difference for the type of paddle I should be looking for, Im about 85kg.

Carbon if poss.. approx 8' wide blade .. IMO

There's lots of good paddles out there now.. and only a few bad ones..

Any experience with the YOB paddles? I see they are on special at the moment, and if I can support a local company then I would prefer to over an overseas company.

cel23 said...
hey roger,

See if you can get your hands on an 8.5" Naish Makani, these are an 80% cbn with kevlar reinforcements & ABS RAILS, one of my favourites at a great pice, or fanatic do a really nice Carbon 80 they call it. You'd got the 8.0" in this one. This is an 80% carbon also with innegra weave and also runs ABS.

I'm sure there are lots of others good ones, these are just 2 that I personally love.

Thanks for the recommendations Cel23. I had a quick look at the Naish last weekend (was more looking for a board at the time so didn't spend too much time on paddles) but haven't seen the Fanatic.

I see the Fanatic Carbon 80 has a bamboo blade.... Is that good, bad or indifferent? I recall reading bamboo can damage easily?

Both of those are in my price range... Albeit at the higher end. I also seen the Starboard Tiki Tech.... It's a bit cheaper but looks like a lower end paddle than the ones you recommended?

cel23 said..
hey roger,

See if you can get your hands on an 8.5" Naish Makani, these are an 80% cbn with kevlar reinforcements & ABS RAILS, one of my favourites at a great pice, or fanatic do a really nice Carbon 80 they call it. You'd got the 8.0" in this one.

I'd stay clear of the Makani. I broke 2 within a few months of each other just paddling on to waves. Wasn't until I returned the second one, the bloke in the shop tells me it's a common occurrence with that particular paddle. I did wonder why he replaced the first one without question. May have just been a faulty batch I guess.
For a few bucks extra, I upgraded to the Kaholo. It feels tough as nails, but I find it a bit harsh on the shoulders as there isn't much flex.