Hi Ian...I'm also over 50 and I think this is a great sport for us old fogies..and it's also the best way to keep fit..The big Starboard is a great board.

I'm not sure if you will get many replies to your question because there just is not much out there in the way of cheap paddles from what I've seen.

You can either buy cheap or make something yourself for $50-$100.

or buy something like the Naish alloy/fiberglass for $200-$250.

or buy a cheaper fiberglass/carbon paddle for $300-$350.

or buy a top of the line carbon paddle for $450-$500.

These are only aprox prices..I'm not sure where wood paddles fit in..My guess would be around the $350+ mark.

It's interesting that the carbon Naish paddle (like I have) is the same paddle as the GSI paddle that costs almost $500 and yet with the Naish logo's on it it only costs about $350....What's going on there???

Good luck with it....let us know how you go....Others might know more or have info about this.

btw..C4 do make a cheaper fiberglass paddle..but C4 in their wisdom do not bring them in to Australia. (as far as I know).

DJ

thanks guy's.
I might keep the one I've got until I get a chance to get to the big smoke. There should be more options there.
Going to Bali again next month. Will have plenty time on the water to improve, I hope.
Sanur looks to goods.

Just started paddle-boarding this summer, been an on-off surfer (when snow-skiing & golf didn't take over) since my teens, now also past the mid-century!! Paddle I bought is a wee bit short for me, so if anyone (in WA) is looking for a top-quality carbon kevlar paddle, almost-new, 185cm long, suit someone 160-172cm tall, $100 off RRP, (sell for $300, shops sell them for $399-430) call Mike 0418 915640.