[Paddlewise] Bent-shaft paddles?

>I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with bent shaft paddles.
>I'm new to paddling and I have a wrist injury that I don't want to aggravate.>

About six years ago I developed carpal tunnel in both wrists.  I tried out a
AT paddle (www.atpaddle.com) and liked the feel of it so I bought one.  Both
wrists gradually healed over a period of four months even though I continued
working full time and paddling with the AT every weekend.  I recovered 100
percent and have not had any problems since.  Personally I think a bent
shaft is the only way to go.  The AT has a 45 degree blade feather angle
which I believe is wrist friendly.

Don't buy a paddle until you have been able to test it in the water.  Years
ago I bought a expensive ultra light made by a major paddle company.  Based
on company hype and testimony from other paddlers I thought I would really
like it but no matter what technique I used this paddle always had a noisy
entry.  One thing I like about the AT is that it is so silent entering and
exiting the water.  Test before you buy.

As Bob V stated in his response, even with a bent shaft you should learn a
relaxed, open grip.

Rex 

***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************