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Aqua Bound Sting Ray Carbon

rated 5.0 of 5 stars
photo: Aqua Bound Sting Ray Carbon kayak paddle

Excellent ultra light paddle with lots of adjustability. Packs down in two pieces, drip rings included, and very little "flutter" when paddling hard.

Pros

  • Lightweight (~20oz)
  • Quality materials
  • Strong carbon fiber shaft
  • Positive locking ferrule
  • Blade design eliminates "flutter"

Cons

  • Pricey compared to Aluminum paddles
  • No length adjustment

I got this paddle as a present with my kayak for Christmas from my wife. I was used to an aluminum shaft paddle on my last kayak. Immediately I noticed that this thing is light. I thought my aluminum paddle was light. I was wrong! At just over a pound, this paddle is almost non-existent in your hands.

It has a positive locking ferrule that has locking positions every 10 degrees up to 60° of offset both ways from 0.

The blades themselves have a split angle design, something I've never used before, and seem to cut down the "flutter" that flat blades tend to have when really digging in and paddling hard.

The shaft has almost zero flex and transfers almost all of your power into the stroke, making for easier paddling and less strain needed to get up to speed and maintain speed on the water.

The ONLY reason i gave this 4.5 instead of 5 stars, is the lack of length adjustability in the paddle, although the length I have fits me perfect (230cm). 

I did get this as a gift, so I obviously didn't pay for it, but I know the price ranges from about 130-160$ which might place it out of the reach of beginner kayakers. But if you can afford a carbon fiber paddle of any design, I would say go for it.

I used to be of the belief that aluminum paddles were just as light and the few extra ounces weren't worth twice the price. I'd have to say now, that, if the price doesn't sway you, spring for the carbon. You'll be thankful.


20141225_090619.jpg

Source: received it as a personal gift

Version reviewed: 240cm

I recently purchased a 240cm long Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Carbon kayak paddle. I needed something longer and lighter than the paddles I already owned. I bought this specifically to use on a new, wider sit-on-top kayak. This two-piece paddle is very light and performs very well.

I've put together a video review below. Please have a look.
Thanks —Wayne

Pros

  • Very lightweight paddle
  • I love the grip I get on the ribbed, oval shaped shaft

Cons

  • A bit pricey

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $229 Canadian...about $179 U.S.

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Specs

Price Current Retail: $157.46
Historic Range: $69.83-$244.95
Product Details from Aqua Bound »

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