Whats everyones preferred race paddle, i'm hearing now that fiberglass is better than carbon fiber bc more flex, is more flex better or worse.
Also paddle blade size?
Does anybody use the Werner Nitro for racing?
(http://mediacdn.shopatron.com/media/mfg/1718/catalog_image/logo_main_1718_logo.jpg?1258361042)
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Our local Riders/Reps Helga and Packet are the number one racers in Florida on 12'6 boards. The both use Jimmy Lewis Peahi or Kanaha Fiberglass paddles (conditions dependent). The short strokes they use work great with the flex the paddle provides. A small bit of stored energy with less fatigue. Also they are WAY stronger than most carbon paddles and MUCH cheaper!
(http://mediacdn.shopatron.com/media/mfg/1718/product_image/x1_3a0cb7a12e3d2983967367f81b96a4ad.jpg?1261382523)
(http://mediacdn.shopatron.com/media/mfg/1718/product_image/x2_3a0cb7a12e3d2983967367f81b96a4ad.jpg?1261382523)
(http://mediacdn.shopatron.com/media/mfg/1718/product_image/x1_43ad1ee84c5939d8431b834f4bbdd14b.jpg?1260921380)
Packet (left) with Peahi
(http://mediacdn.shopatron.com/media/mfg/1718/product_image/x3_43ad1ee84c5939d8431b834f4bbdd14b.jpg?1260921380)
www.jimmylewis.com (http://www.jimmylewis.com)
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Kialoa Shaka Pu'u for me... and flex is good.. IMO.. :) .. There's a difference between springy and bendy.
Some paddle have a soft feel and work great while cruising along but don't work well for me when I paddle really hard.
DJ
thats some insane pictures.
my paddle will vary on conditions.
Kainoa Beaupre, Myself, and Nikki Gregg all use Nitro's for racing and love them. I am sure there are many others out there that use the Nitro for racing as well. When you have the right size blade you don't need as much flex, too much flex and the paddle feels whippy and looses power at the critical power phase of the stroke called the "catch". If you get a chance try one out.