I would love to try a wood paddle one day..Maybe even make one myself.

But after reading many forums and reports from Hawaii..where they do it the most..I've read about many wooden paddles that have broken..Some on the first paddle..That would piss me off..But then..they might be easier to fix than Carbon.

I had a feel of a wood paddle the other day (in the shop) and I was surprised at how stiff it was..and the blade was very flat..so I can't help but wonder how straight it would paddle without any dihedral on the face.

I think the good thing about carbon is its flex (I think flex is a good thing)..plus its light weight.

I don't think a wood paddle will help any paddling into the wind..but they do look cool.

I say..try before you buy..I wonder if Xylo allow demos.. www.xylobladz.com/

DJ