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Paddle Design
Submitted by Gulkana <gpearcy@comcast.net> on 16/Sep/2015 69.251.38.14
Message:
I have questions on paddles, some generic, some specific. I'll confine my generic questions to this note and post the specific later.
1) Why use a feathered shaft at all? I (think) I know the history a bit: avoiding wind pressure on the blade in the air (the original 90-degree offset, right?) My guess is that this rationale has passed for all but expert and slalom boaters, of which I am nowhere near either, just a low intermediate.
I see two possible advantages to NO feathered offset: a) No need to twist the shaft for the offside stroke. b) Easier rolling, inasmuch as there is no feather on the offside to affect the sweep. (I have NO roll, so any little bit might help.)
2) Straight-or-bent shaft? I paddle an old school Werner (the one with the blue shaft and white blades) straight shaft, and have never been bothered by wrist or elbow discomfort or pain. Any other reason to go bent? (I have tried bent shaft paddles and not found an improvement; in fact, they feel funny. I presume I could get used to it but don't see a need to try.)
I have no personal confidence in any of this, which is why I am posting here for the advice of much more experienced and knowledgeable paddlers. All and any opinions and advice gratefully accepted. TIA
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