How do paddlers paddles differ?
There are many varieties of paddle on the market and the major designs include: straight shaft, bent shaft and double bent shaft paddles. The bend being referred to, is a design principal first introduced to outrigger canoeing during the late 1970’s, but originated during the early seventies for “marathon” canoe racing, predominantly in Midwestern USA and Canada. The shaft is angled at the point at which it joins the blade, in an attempt to make the blade in the water more efficient throughout the length of the stroke, especially the later part. Olympic “C” class paddlers might well benefit from a bent shaft, but the rules apparently prohibit it. The double bent shaft is not only angled at the blade but also further up the shaft so as the grip is angled closer to the top hand. The bend at the lower shaft, puts the wrist at a more comfortable angle reducing fatigue. Straight shaft paddles, are generally preferred by steerers.
