Re: [Paddlewise] Bent-shaft kayak paddles -- pros, cons, and recommendations

On Wednesday, September 11, 2002, at 1:45:02 PM PST, Michael Daly
wrote:

> If you tend to have joint problems, the bent shaft is worth it
> (assuming, of course, the specific problem is in the wrist alignment
> that the bent shaft corrects). If you don't need it, then it's
> purely a preference that has a few real advantages and some
> potential disadvantages.

I agree with you here, and I'll add a little more from my
perspective...

Out of curiosity, I've tried several bent shaft paddles in the past,
and didn't like any of them. This is probably mostly due to my
preferred paddle handling style. I prefer a straight shaft because I
can freely move my hands along the shaft, effectively changing the
length of the paddle - or the width of my grip - for certain
maneuvers/conditions. This is how I've always used a "Euro" paddle.

For the past six months or so, I've been using West Greenland style
paddles exclusively, and basically have no desire to use a "Euro"
paddle anymore. I really like the sliding and extended paddle strokes
of the Greenland technique, and being able to slide my hands
comfortably all along the length of the narrow blades is a great plus
for me.

For years, I used only an 80 degree feather Werner, and never had any
problems with my wrists, hands, arms, etc., so rather than finding any
advantage to the bent shaft paddles, I found only limitations.

I've heard people refer to Greenland paddles as "variable length"
paddles, and it's one of the many things I really love about them. I
also like the fact that the blade faces are symmetrical. It's never a
problem finding the "correct" blade face! I also like it when people
tell me it looks like I'm paddling with a ski! :-)

Melissa
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