RE: [Paddlewise] Epic Wayfarer and Lightning Standard Touring

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Rvilter_at_aol.com [mailto:Rvilter_at_aol.com]

> 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.

  I've been paddling with a Lightning Ultralight Standard Tour for four+
years now.  The only times I had a problem with blade flutter were when I
first acquired the paddle and would try to "over-power" my stroke.  I soon
learned to adjust my stroke (and became more efficient in the process) and
no longer have any flutter problems at all.  The Ultralight is my paddle of
choice for just about every trip.  And no, I don't lend it to my paddling
buddies, because I know it wouldn't be returned until the end of the day's
journey<g>.

snip
> 
> 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 also paddle with a low-angle style and the Ultralight works great for
me.  Can't comment on the Wayfarer.
> 
> 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.
> 
  For strength and simplicity - the fewer moving parts and pieces the
better.
  You might want to check out http://www.marinerkayaks.com and read their
section on paddles.  It gives a pretty good review of Lightning paddles.
When the day comes that I'm in the market for another paddle I'll be on the
phone calling Hank at Lightning. (no, I don't work for Lightning - I'm just
a very happy Lightning paddle owner)

Dave Seng
Juneau, Alaska
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