Re: [Paddlewise] Paddle length

On Thu, Jul 16, 2009 at 8:32 PM, Paul Hayward <pdh_at_mmcl.co.nz> wrote:

>
> One of the advantages (that I hadn't expected) with the move to a GP
> (Greenland paddle), was the reduction in hand-fatigue from gripping a shaft
> smaller-than-optimal for my hand size.
>
>
It's certainly plausible that paddle shaft diameter can make a big
difference. I also spent a lot of years playing tennis and tennis rackets
have been available in various grip sizes since the days of the wooden
rackets (and ya, I played with those, too). There are paddles which are
available in two shaft diameters: "small" and (presumably) "regular" but
I've never seen a "large" and I can't recall seeing an actual size (in
inches or cm) to define what "small" is. Or what "regular" is, for that
matter.

Paddle manufacturers probably should take a closer look at offering paddles
in various shaft diameters; more than just the "small" option. I can see
them cringing at that idea now. Werner hasn't offered a wing paddle (other
than their custom-built paddles for the US Canoe and Kayak Team - one of
which I have) because of the problems producing them. The idea of having to
build them in various shaft diameters must keep their production people
awake at night.

I do agree that my GP fits my hands better and is light weight. My problem
is that my GP (and maybe its my own fault) has given the term "flutter" a
whole new definition. Perhaps technique can fix it or perhaps if I simply
built a better GP. I dunno. I would have to try an assortment of GPs to
determine which it is. I bet Duane Strosaker has some ideas on this.

Another possible help for arthritic hands could be a bent shaft. My wife has
a low-angle bent shaft paddle that I could use if she weren't so paranoid
that I might actually adopt it as my own (it's a one-piece shaft and so
there is little likelihood of me doing that). Plus, of course, it's a
"small" shaft paddle.

My particular problem is the thumb joint and it's not at all limited to
paddling. In fact it can be extremely painful at any time or even all the
time; and in both hands. Or some days there is no pain at all. Very
frustrating.

Perhaps only the adoption of a GP will help. Sigh. There is nothing nicer
than the feel of a big-blade, low-angle Euro paddle accelerating a fast,
nimble kayak. That sheer acceleration is so much fun. Plus it's fun leaving
everyone behind, too. And for long distance paddling.... well, *I* have a
mother-ship.  :P

Craig Jungers
Moses Lake, WA
www.nwkayaking.net
***************************************************************************
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/
***************************************************************************