What to look out for when buying a carbon paddle for sup
Blade size: Consider the type of paddling you will be doing and choose a blade size that suits your needs. A smaller blade size is usually better suited for fast, cadence-oriented paddling and smaller riders, while a larger blade is better suited for slower, more powerful strokes and larger riders. The blade size of sup paddles is measured in square inches (sq.in.) and refers to the total area of the paddle blade. For smaller paddlers or paddlers with less power, a smaller blade is recommended (e.g. 70-80 square inches). For larger paddlers or paddlers with more power, a larger blade is recommended (e.g. 90-100 square inches).
Weight: Carbon fibre (carbon) is a popular material for paddle shafts because it is light, strong and stiff. However, there are different grades of carbon fibre and manufacturing processes that can affect the strength and stiffness of the shaft. A lightweight three-piece carbon- sup paddle usually weighs between 600 and 800 grams. A two-piece between 400 and 600 grams. Attention: Most suppliers do not publish the actual weight (in grams) of the paddle, but simply write "light". Here you can assume that the paddle will not actually be light, otherwise they would have written it. Look for a paddle with a high carbon percentage , at least 40% carbon. See also below ''What does the carbon-percentage mean in sup-paddles''
Blade shape: sup paddles can be available in different blade shapes, each offering different advantages and disadvantages. Like more surface area at the bottom of the paddle blade, how easier it is to ''grab'' water and paddle efficiently. This is mainly offered by the blade with tear-drop shape. Other shapes include a rectangular blade shape. Or elliptical blade shape: This blade shape is a mixture of the tear-drop and rectangular shapes.
Adjustable length: Consider whether you want an adjustable or fixed paddle. An adjustable paddle can be more versatile as you can adjust the length for different conditions and paddling styles. Beginners usually have it a little longer. Advanced paddlers shorten the paddle slightly for more efficiency. However, a fixed paddle can be lighter and stiffer, which can be an advantage for performance (race) paddling.
Price: Carbon fibre paddles can be expensive, but can also offer significant performance benefits. Consider your budget and choose a paddle that offers the features and performance you need at a price you can afford.
Three-piece carbon paddle (fits in your pocket)
100% carbon of about 600 gr. (then you really feel a difference to the 1000 gr. aluminium paddle)
Teardrop blade shape (easiest to paddle)
Blade size approx. 85 sq.in (square inch also called square inch)
Tear-drop blade for sup paddles offers several advantages
Efficiency: The tear-drop blade is wider at the base and tapers towards the end. This uses a larger area of the blade to grip the water for greater efficiency and speed.
Reduced fatigue: Because of the increased efficiency, a paddler can paddle faster with a tear drop paddle, allowing them to cover longer distances without becoming too fatigued.
Less kickback: The tear drop blade is also known to offer less kickback in wind and waves. The taper at the end of the blade reduces drag and allows the paddle to glide through the water better.
Better control: Because the tear drop paddle has a narrower tip, it offers better control and manoeuvrability, which is an advantage for experienced paddlers.
Sup-Paddles can have different handles
T-handle: The T-handle is the most commonly used handle on the sup paddle. It is usually made of plastic or rubber and provides a good grip and comfort. The T-grip also makes it easier to remove the paddle from the water.
Palm Grip: The Palm Grip is an ergonomic handle that adapts to the shape of the palm. It offers a comfortable and secure fit and is popular with many paddlers.
Ergonomic Grip: An ergonomic grip is shaped to promote a natural hand position and increase comfort while paddling.
Straight grip: A straight grip is a simple and straight pole without ergonomic or anatomical adjustments. It is popular with many paddlers who do not require special grip shapes.
Advantages carbon sup paddle compared to an aluminium paddle
Weight: carbon sup Paddles are usually much lighter than aluminium paddles. The lighter weight of the carbon paddle allows for a more efficient paddling motion and reduces fatigue for the paddler.
Stiffness: carbon sup paddles are also stiffer than aluminium paddles. This means that the paddle flexes less and allows for better transfer of paddling power to the water. This can lead to better speed and efficiency when paddling.
Durability: carbon sup Paddles are also more resistant to damage and wear than aluminium paddles. They are less prone to scratches, dents and corrosion and have a longer life.
Design: carbon sup Paddles often have a sleeker and more elegant design than aluminium paddles. They also often have a more modern appearance and can be available in different colours and designs.
Paddle always floats
Blade has 10 degree angle to the pole, the pull phase is longer
Pole bends a little but flexes back, this gives extra propulsion
However, it is important to note that carbon sup paddles are also usually more expensive than aluminium paddles. Some paddlers may also prefer the weight and feel of aluminium paddles or have a limited budget to purchase a paddle. It is important to choose a paddle based on your paddling needs and abilities to ensure the best paddling experience.
What does the carbon-percentage in sup-paddles mean?
The carbon percentage in sup paddles refers to the percentage of carbon fibres used in the shaft and/or blade of the paddle. A higher percentage usually means that there are more carbon fibres in the paddle, making it stiffer, lighter and more durable.
For example, 40% carbon means that 60% fibreglass is used. This is all mixed with resin.
Ex. 100% means that 100% carbon fibres and no fibreglass fibres are used.
A paddle with a higher carbon percentage is usually more expensive as carbon fibre is more expensive than other materials such as fibreglass or aluminium. Some paddles also have a combination of different materials to take advantage of each material and make the paddle lighter, stiffer and more durable. e.g. Carbon + Kevlar.
Three-piece paddle Advantages:
Portability: As the paddle can be disassembled into three parts, it is easy to transport and take with you when travelling. It can easily be packed into a backpack or bag, making it ideal for sup trips.
Adjustability: A three-piece paddle allows you to adjust the length of the paddle to suit your size and paddling conditions. You can also use it as a single, long paddle or as a shorter paddle with a longer handle, depending on your preferred paddling technique.
Comfort: A three-piece paddle allows you to hold the paddle in the middle, which is more comfortable for many paddlers than a long, rigid paddle. You can also move it in and out of the water more easily, which reduces effort and makes paddling more comfortable.
Spare parts: If a part of the paddle is damaged or worn out, you don't have to replace the whole paddle. You can simply replace the damaged or worn part, saving time and money.
What should a good three-piece carbon sup paddle cost?
What is the weight of a lightweight carbon sup paddle in three parts?
Advantages two-piece sup paddle
Transport: A two-piece sup paddle can be split in the middle for easier and space-saving transport. It can easily be stowed in a backpack or bag and is therefore ideal for travelling or transporting on a car or bicycle carrier.
Adjustability: A two-piece sup paddle is usually adjustable, allowing the paddler to adjust the length of the paddle to suit their height and the conditions. This is especially useful when sharing the paddle with other paddlers or paddling in different waters or conditions.
Replacement: In case of damage or wear, the blade or shaft of a two-piece sup paddle can be easily replaced without having to replace the entire paddle.
Comfort: A two-piece sup paddle offers more comfort when paddling as the shaft is broken in the middle and the paddler can keep their hands in a more natural position.
Versatility: A two-piece sup paddle can be used for different paddling activities, such as touring, racing, surfing or yoga, as it can be adapted to different conditions and paddling styles.
Advantages of a one-piece sup paddle
Stiffness: Compared to separable paddles, one-piece sup paddles are stiffer because there are no joints. This means that less energy is lost and power transmission is more effective.
Easy to handle: One-piece sup paddles are generally easier to handle and transport as they have no joints to disassemble and reassemble.
Durability: One-piece sup paddles have fewer moving parts due to their simplicity and are therefore usually more durable and resistant to damage.
Weight: One-piece sup paddles are often lighter than splittable paddles because they do not have any additional connecting pieces.
Price: As a rule, one-piece sup paddles are less expensive than separable paddles.
However, it is important to note that one-piece sup paddles cannot be adjusted in length as they have a fixed measurement. However, once you have found the right size, one-piece sup paddles offer a good combination of stiffness, durability, weight and price.
Protective cover for your paddle
Protection from damage: A protective cover protects your paddle from scratches, dents and other damage that can occur when transporting or storing your paddle.
Extending life: If you use your paddle regularly, it can wear out from contact with water, salt and UV radiation. A protective cover can help extend the life of your paddle by protecting it from these elements.
Increase resale value: If you want to sell your paddle at some point, a protective cover can help to keep your paddle in better condition and therefore achieve a higher resale value.
Easy identification: If you store your paddle on a paddle stand or in a paddle bag, a protective cover can help you identify your paddle more easily and access it more quickly.