[Paddlewise] Epic Wayfarer and Lightning Standard Touring

I've narrowed my choice of paddles to the Epic Wayfarer (probably carbon with 
length-lock) and the Lightning Standard Tour (probably the ultralight).

Here are my questions/observations:

1.  The Wayfarer blade face had a dihedral shape whereas the Lightning blade 
face is flat.  In my experience, a dihedral face helps prevent "fluttering" 
of the blade.  This would seem to make the Wayfarer more attractive, but I 
would like to hear some input on whether this is a real or an imagined 
problem with the Lightning.

2.  I don't want a paddle blade that is too wide (or perhaps more accurately, 
has a large surface area).  An example of a paddle blade which I find too 
"big" for my taste is the Werner San Juan, which has a length of 22" and a 
width of 6 3/4".  By comparison, the Wayfarer (length 18.7" and width 7.1") 
and the Lightning (length 16.5" and width 7.25") also seem to be on the "big 
side".  I would like to hear your views on whether you thing the Wayfarer and 
the Lightning paddle like "big" bladed paddles.

3.  I tend to use a low-angle paddle style as opposed to a high-angle style.  
Is this a relevant factor when selecting between these two paddles?

I would be interested to hear any commentary on the Wayfarer's length-lock 
system (how well does it work, will it wear out etc.).  Any other paddle 
recommendations would also be appreciated.

Thanks for you input,

Bob Vilter

***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not
to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************