Gday Guys,
Seeking the collective wisdom of the group regarding Paddle blade sizes. I'm not going to mention brands as I don't want to get into a brand slanging match. I'm currently running a 95sq inch paddle, I've also trialled a 100sq inch paddle. I generally have a fairly low cadence. I'm starting to get some shoulder and elbow pain. The 95sq inch paddle is quite light. The 100sq inch is heavier. The 100 feels more stable through the water, but I fatigue quicker (a lot quicker), where as the 95 tends to flutter a bit.
Ive done some net research primarily looking at Terrell, Babcock and Cain. Im 170cm, short legs, long torso, avg arms and 74kgs. Currently on a 14 x 27.75. I'm on the board 3-5 times a week, race, do an average of 30 - 45kms a week, primarily on flatwater with the occasional ocean race. Most of the research suggests to go down a blade size and possible a less stiff shaft.
What are peoples thoughts of dropping to about an 85sq inch Paddle blade and a less stiff shaft?
Cheers
Rosey
I did. Felt good. But I was slower...
You'll probably find a compromise around 90 sq ins works for you.
Also try longer recovery periods between paddles. And consider changing your stroke, and length of paddle.
I am taller but just a couple of kg more.
I have used a 95 paddle with a stiff race shaft and the same had trouble with shoulders (separated right shoulder). I then changed the shaft on that same blade for a shaft that is soft(er) on the first inches and then stack and get stiff. It did wonder for my shoulders on the exact same blade.
I then changed fro a 84 blade and could go back to stiff shaft but still preferred the soft/stiff shaft for open water. It forced me to a high cadence.
I am now changing to a 90 blade which should be the perfect medium.
Also noted that the overall weight of the paddle on a two hours paddle could make a difference for shoulders...
Cheers,
Hi Rosey,
Do yourself a favour,check out surfboard warehouse,they have a 7" blade.I had shoulder and elbow problems,now since using their paddle I have had no problems.I use the paddle for surfing 9'2" and distance paddling on a 12'6".The paddle is super light and flexible,you can dig deep and get a heap of power.
I dropped to a 7.25 fanatic - love the paddle . I think it is 92 square inches. I also have a kialoa methaneII - a bit lighter with same size blade. I came down from a 98 square inch blade and haven't had any problems. My GPS indicates that I am generally slightly faster with the kialoa. The shaft feels stiffer. It is also a little lighter. Very different shape to the blades. I'd try to test a few out. Borrow a mates for a day if you can. Thats what I did.
Thanks Guys, went out and got a Quickblade Trifecta in an 86sq In. After the first couple of paddles, no pain, less fatigue and quicker in comparable conditions (3mins over 8kms). I got it an inch and half longer than my other paddle on advice from the guy at the shop (3inchs longer than quick blade recommend). As a result I've found I can reach further and now tend to engage my lats and core region more as a result.
Thanks for the advice.
