Paddles

Recent Paddle Reviews

Werner Ikelos

It's my go-to paddle when I paddle rough water and in surf conditions. The big blade doesn't slip when you crank on it, and it's super-light. The Ikelos is one of my favorite kayak paddles. The weight might make you think it's a potato chip, but I use it for tough conditions and it has held up great. The ferrule system is the best one in the kayak paddle market, period. It's almost like it becomes a one-piece, the lock is so positive. The only downsides? It's a very big blade, so it'll kill your… Full review

Bending Branches Sunrise Glass

This paddle has proven to be durable, efficient, and reliable over two full seasons of paddling 100+ days per year. It is a reasonably priced recreational paddle, with options for feathering. I would definitely recommend it for paddlers of canoes and kayaks, who are looking for a good basic paddle with positive performance and durability. My Bending Branches Sunrise Glass kayak paddle will soon be put away for the winter, but I have no plans or need to replace it for next year's paddling. In my… Full review

Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Carbon

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 Full review

Advanced Elements Touring 4-Part Paddle

This is a sturdy and reliable paddle that takes apart into four pieces, so it fits well into the bag of a folding or inflatable kayak. The price is good. I've used it for three years of recreational flatwater paddling. The Touring paddle has become my preferred paddle, after experience with plenty of two-piece paddles, and two other four-piece paddles. I've used it for over three years. I initially tried it because it is an Advanced Elements paddle, and I am a big fan of their folding inflatable… Full review

Advanced Elements Ultralite Pack Paddle

This is the most affordable kayak paddle I've found that can be taken apart into four parts. It is great for using with folding or inflatable kayaks, as it is packable and portable and weighs about 24 ounces. The slim metal shaft suits small hands. I have not used it for whitewater or challenging conditions. Kayakers need spare paddles. I chose two of these Ultralite Pack Paddles to go with the Lagoon inflatable kayak given to me a year and a half ago, by the manufacturer. One I keep as a lightweight… Full review

Werner Ikelos

Great buoyant large blade. Looks good and performs great. Been using the Ikelos bent shaft for a number of years. It is an exceptional and rather large paddle, light and stiff, but with comfortable bent shaft it performs very well. Foam core construction makes for a very buoyant blade with smooth surfaces on both sides. Paddle enters water cleanly and when rolling it does provide enough support even if not at a perfect angle. In some respect it is one of the best paddles to teach roll with. I have… Full review

L.L.Bean Beavertail Canoe Paddle

A classic redone with a robust edge guard and modern wood finish. This paddle isn't for white water, but on a lake or quiet stream, it's a lovely paddle to hold and use. I received this paddle as a birthday gift from my wife yesterday. I'm quite taken with it—it's so "Moonrise Kingdom." The wood used is straight-grained and clear of imperfection. The paddle is understated and beautiful. Beavertail paddles are a classic choice for lake paddling. Once the paddle is submerged, its shape allows it… Full review

Bending Branches Viper

Most comfortable paddle I've used for long distance paddling. The curved shaft really makes a big difference. I purchased this canoe paddle to replace my 20-year-old Bending Branches bent paddle that finally took some damage after many miles. This one has the curved shaft as well as the bend where the paddle connects. The curved shaft really makes a big difference for comfort, it just feels good. I also feel like I can steer better with the Viper as opposed to my old bent paddle, maybe it's just… Full review

Bending Branches Bounce

Excellent price, lightweight, and comfortable grip. I received this paddle as a Christmas gift. It was my second paddle, and I LOVED it. The quality, weight, and ease of use made me think this was a very expensive gift. It has a nice, natural grip and is pre-wrapped, so I have not had to add the usual Yak-Grips that I always put on my paddle shaft.  I have a small boat (9.5 foot kayak), and this paddle pushes me quickly through the water, even in a very strong head wind. I have also used it through… Full review