Re: [Paddlewise] Paddle Types

I have a bent shaft Werner paddle, and have used it for three years.
       None of you have mentioned the odd fact that you can tell, accurately, 
where your hands are on a bent shaft, as opposed to a straight shaft paddle.
      I used to "walk" my hands up and down the paddle shaft without knowing 
I was doing it, then couldn't figure out why I kept veering sport or 
starboard. It was because I was holding the paddle unevenly.
      With the bent shaft, I am much more aware of where I am holding it, and 
better able to adjust my position if I don't want to have equal exposure on 
each end.
      Now, with five years kayaking rather than two, it is possible I don't 
need the bent shaft anymore. However, with one shoulder surgery, the other 
shoulder in PT for 6 months, and elbow and wrist tendonitis, I think I'll stick 
with it.
      My "back up" paddle is a straight shaft Wind Swift. It has smaller 
blades than the Kalliste, and I use it on the first day of a two day trip, or on 
paddles over 10 or 12 miles, to reduce strain on wrist and shoulders, Then I 
use the Kalliste the second day or late in the trip.
     I really prefer the Kalliste, but do wonder if the design is one of the 
reasons I have had such a challenge learning to roll.
                 Pam in Washington State  (Hi! Craig! You forgot to tell them 
at least I got the Kalliste on ebay!)



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