Re: [Paddlewise] Advantages of the high aspect ratio paddle?

From: "Gabriel L Romeu" <romeug_at_erols.com>

> I was surprised to read about the buoyancy factor of the stick as an
> assist to rolling, but knowing Harvey's immersion in the study of
> traditional craft and very thoughtful analysis, would never argue. 

Sounds like a safe assumption, though I've been suspicious of the
bouyancy benefits (with the exception of a floating-paddle assisted 
hand roll).  

> 
> I had always surmised that the less critical blade angle in the
> traditional paddle were a great help in assisting beginners  achieve a
> roll, and is the major advantage.  

That may be it.

I've practiced rolling with several different paddles - all so-called Euro style.

Sabella (borrowed) - sweeps very nicely but lacks power in a C-C

Aquabound Expedition - my most reliable SK paddle for rolling.  Predictable and
rarely dives.

Perception (Harmony) Sea Passage - all around mediocre paddle with a pronounced 
tendency to dive when sweep-rolling.  I hate it (this came with my first SK)

Ainsworth WW paddle (bought 2nd hand from a rental place - has an aluminum edge) -
this is without question the rolling champ.  It never dives and has lots of bite for a C-C.
Heavy as all get out and indestructable - great for bottom rolls and developing arm strength!

Lendal Archipelago - too new to really know.  I rolled with it once - felt like the Aquabound.  
The crankshaft made a blind setup a breeze.

Mohawk canoe paddle.  Super setup with a T grip but awful feel in a sweep.  Rolls ok
though. 

Hmm... all euro, all different.  I don't know if there's a definite pattern that would allow us to 
draw a conclusion that says they're bad and traditional are, by default, good.

Note that the thick-edged Ainsworth is the least likely to dive.  Some of the traditional Greenland 
style paddles have thick or rounded edges.  Coincidence?  Possibly not.  A "soft" leading edge 
won't grab in a sweep and dive like a knife-edged blade.  

The Sea Passage is the lowest aspect ratio of the SK paddles and is least stable - perhaps the 
diving is related to the flutter characteristics.  The Sabella has the highest ratio and sweeps lovely
with good lift in spite of a small area (If CD ever puts a variable feather on their crank shaft, I'm
getting one of these!)

I'll let you know how I feel about my storm paddle in a roll if I ever find the time to sand and oil it.
I expect I'll like it; it has all the characteristics of a decent rolling paddle - good sweep 
characteristics (long, high aspect ratio), soft leading edge etc.  The roughly 80 sq.in. blade 
means it won't do wonders in a brace roll, though.

Mike

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