[Paddlewise] Paddles I use

I am really glad to see this thread where people are discribing the paddles
they use.  I would ask, though, that people describe their use (river vs.
flat water. touring vs. racing, etc.) and the approximate beam on their
boat along with the paddle length.  I feel that this added information
would be useful for people, like myself, who are trying to gather more
information to make a paddle upgrade more rewarding.  It might also be
interesting to open discussions on the merits of right hand vs. left hand
control.

My wife and I do primarily open water touring and use one piece Ainsworth
paddles.  They appear to be plastic (resin?) blades with plastic covered
aluminum shafts.  The shafts are round in cross-section.  Hers is a 216cm
K106 and mine is a 220cm K108.  I believe the K number has something to do
with the aspect ratio of the blade since my 108 is longer and not as wide
as the 106.  Both paddles are right hand control with about (by eye) an 80
(or is that 10) degree feather.  The boat I paddle has a 24.5" beam and my
wife's beam (boat that is) is probably an inch less.

The paddles have been durable and, for me, the K108 has performed well on
long paddles.  I have used it on two 6+ hour paddles and many of lesser
duration without feeling the paddle did anything bad to my body.  I must
say, however, that these paddles feel heavier than the ones other people in
my paddling groups use.  OTOH, they were relatively inexpensive.  We bought
my wife's used for $50 and mine new for about $120.  

When I bought my paddle, I also bought an adapter to make it a two piece
paddle.  This adapter is a screwed coupling that, when used, will allow the
paddle to be assembled either feather or un feathered, the angle adjustable
and RH or LH control.  I have been reluctant to cut my paddle since I feel
it might compromise its strength, but when this becomes my backup paddle, I
will make it two piece for easier carrying on my deck.  

It seems to me that the ideal paddle would certainly have to be angle
adjustable, i.e.:
   feathered for wind conditions (also, this is the normal angle for many
people)
   unfeathered for sore wrists ( also, this is the normal angle for many
people)
   opposite hand feather for use by others who are only used to that
orientation

And of course, relatively light.  Stiffness needs more discussion.  Also
blade shape.

More input please!!!

Bill Leonhardt, East Patchogue, LI, NY
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