Need some advice on paddle length. I am a late intermediate surf sup er and have been cutting my paddle down gradually over the last couple of years. Recently I chopped a good couple of inches off on some advice. Started at 6 inches over height, but now it is only the handle that stands proud of my head.
My initial experience was great, it felt much easier to paddle into a wave and is not as in the way. I also feel it helps on smaller sups to balance as i can get lower. The only problem is I have had lower back pain after my last two sessions.
I am getting a new paddle soon, (Werner nitro) question is, do i cut it to the same length or go longer? Werners advice is go 8 inches more than your height for surf! Is this outdated advice or something to do with it being a more high aspect and longer blade?
I am reluctant to go long as i have previous shoulder injuries but back pain isn't much fun either!

Just on kind of a whim I ended up with a Kialoa adjustable... never wanted one before as I thought they were just for rentals/beginners. I learned A LOT! For me I choose the length depending on what board I'm riding and how I feel. I usually end up right in the old 6" zone, but you would be amazed how much you feel even tiny changes. Area10 is on it, take out an adjustable and just experiment.

He all ..

Ive been doing the same gradually getting smaller and smaller ... Im under my head now prob bout an inch and love it .. Like said above it helps with balance heaps on short boards as u stay way more bent at the knees ..

Ive only really kept going shorter becuase its easier on my shoulders .. So now my arms are bent down there not much stress on the shoulder ..

It does take it out on your back a bit more tho so u really have to concentrate on using your abb's instead of you back .. Like doing a kind of sit up ..

ALSO when paddling back out just cruise .. with your back straight and small strokes ... takes an extra minute to get out but gibes you a break .. And you stay out longer ..

Hope that helps ...

Like a previous poster I also use an adjustable paddle….I have a Naish Makani which is so good. I Change boards and can change the paddle length to suit. Some adjustable paddles are quality and can offer options. I have a non adjustable paddle that sits in the corner after being used once.

I would go with the Kialoa for durability reasons. I had two nitros, broke both of them. Nice feeling paddle though, just couldn't handle big surf abuse.