Standup Zone Forum

Stand Up Paddle => Gear Talk => Topic started by: spirit4earth on May 02, 2018, 10:38:34 AM

Title: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 02, 2018, 10:38:34 AM
Will the experts on Ke Nalu blades give me a rundown on the differences between these blades?  I can’t find details on the website.  Thanks!
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 02, 2018, 02:27:44 PM
I did find some explanations, and it sounds like the Mana might be good.  Not the Wiki, as I like a fast cadence but not a super-fast cadence.  Maybe one of the high aspect blades?
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: JEG on May 02, 2018, 04:24:15 PM
Will the experts on Ke Nalu blades give me a rundown on the differences between these blades?  I can’t find details on the website.  Thanks!

what are you intended to do on this paddle, is it for touring, racing or surfing and whats you height and weight?
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 02, 2018, 05:59:51 PM
Touring mainly.  Height is ~5’4”, weight is 145ish.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: stoneaxe on May 02, 2018, 08:40:08 PM
I haven't tried the Mana or Ho'oloa but I love the Konihi for distance.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 02, 2018, 09:40:18 PM
I haven't tried the Mana or Ho'oloa but I love the Konihi for distance.

Did you find that you needed a longer shaft for the Konihi?
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: stoneaxe on May 03, 2018, 04:34:48 AM
Shaft length will depend on the paddler and technique. The Konihi is a narrower taller blade. You also want/need to bury it completely. You definitely don't want to have the shaft too short. Great blade...I can't make it flutter even if I try. I still like my Maliko for surf but I won't use anything else for distance. Hopefully some other will chime in. I've heard good things about the other blades.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: burchas on May 03, 2018, 06:58:51 AM
...I can't make it flutter even if I try.

Same thing applies for the Mana, very stable, you can't mess up your stroke even if you try so that's good for high cadence.
The main difference for me between the 2 is that the Mana feels softer and smoother at the catch. with the Konihi I felt it has
more initial bite, bothered my shoulders.

Thumbs up for the Mana.

Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: APPST_Paddle on May 03, 2018, 07:10:04 AM
I'm curious too, I have a 95 sq in. Ho'oloa and I was going to start racing and use it. Although, with racing/training and a ton of strokes I'm thinking I would be better served with a smaller blade.

Just curious - everyone says to go with a small blade in the surf for high rep, wouldn't a larger paddle blade make sense as you are trying to aggressively speed up/sprint to catch a wave?
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Luc Benac on May 03, 2018, 07:33:24 AM
The main difference for me between the 2 is that the Mana feels softer and smoother at the catch. with the Konihi I felt it has
more initial bite, bothered my shoulders.

This might be more the case for the Konihi 95 which felt like a big hard shoulder killer catch compared to the Mana 90 which is way smoother.
I have found the catch on the Mana 82 to be more obvious than on the Konihi 84.

For me the main difference between the two is that it is easier to maintain a good technique with the Mana 82 than with the Konihi 84 over a long period of time.
I have always found that the first 5-7 km are possibly tiny bit faster with the K84 but speed deteriorate with fatigue and loss of focus.
When the Mana 82 is planted it does feel like you are working for it and there is a very positive feedback that you are pulling yourself.
I find the Mana 82 easier to use in rough water than the K84


Thumbs up for the Mana.

Yes
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Quickbeam on May 03, 2018, 07:55:21 AM
Hey Luc,

I remember a post from some time ago when you said you used to get a sore neck, and that this improved with the KeNalu paddle. I find I also sometimes get a sore neck after paddling. So if I was to get a KeNalu with the Mana 82, which shaft and handle would you recommend?

And when you got your KeNalu, do you just order from the U.S. off their website?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Quickbeam on May 03, 2018, 08:00:13 AM
O.K., I just took another look at the KeNalu website and I like the looks of the "Ergo" handle, if it fits a smaller hand???

Still have no idea which shaft would be best though.

And finally, when you order the paddle, does it just come in a standard length and then you have to cut it down yourself?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Luc Benac on May 03, 2018, 08:03:34 AM
Hey Luc,

I remember a post from some time ago when you said you used to get a sore neck, and that this improved with the KeNalu paddle. I find I also sometimes get a sore neck after paddling. So if I was to get a KeNalu with the Mana 82, which shaft and handle would you recommend?

And when you got your KeNalu, do you just order from the U.S. off their website?

Thanks.

Xtuf(S) most definitely.
I order from Lee Brittain the Canadian distributor directly (tell him I told you :-) ) lee@jimmylewis.ca
I have used all three handle.
Ergo-T, I hate the sharp angle on one side that is hard on the hand after 10km
Classic T, has been my go to handle for DW as it gives a good sense of where the blade is
Ergo, is now what I settle on as I find it better for really putting the weight down on the top of the shaft
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Luc Benac on May 03, 2018, 08:06:09 AM
O.K., I just took another look at the KeNalu website and I like the looks of the "Ergo" handle, if it fits a smaller hand???

Still have no idea which shaft would be best though.

And finally, when you order the paddle, does it just come in a standard length and then you have to cut it down yourself?

Thanks.

Yes the Ergo is better for a larger/longer hand
The shaft comes in 63" length and needs to be cut down with a smooth saw.
I have a few 100Flex and 90Flex shafts if you want to try these as they are lighter than the  Xtuf(s).
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 03, 2018, 08:07:10 AM
It sounds like the Mana 82 might be a little more forgiving of imperfect technique, and easier on the shoulders.  I think I’d be happy with either blade, though.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Quickbeam on May 03, 2018, 08:47:32 AM
O.K., I just took another look at the KeNalu website and I like the looks of the "Ergo" handle, if it fits a smaller hand???

Still have no idea which shaft would be best though.

And finally, when you order the paddle, does it just come in a standard length and then you have to cut it down yourself?

Thanks.


Yes the Ergo is better for a larger/longer hand
The shaft comes in 63" length and needs to be cut down with a smooth saw.
I have a few 100Flex and 90Flex shafts if you want to try these as they are lighter than the  Xtuf(s).


Thanks Luc,

Really appreciate the offer. I think though, if I’m going to do this, I’ll just go with the Xtuf(S) if that’s the one that will be easiest on my neck.

Funny thing is, I just ordered a new ZRE paddle. Am expecting it either today or tomorrow. Love their paddles, but if the KeNalu solves my sore neck then it’s probably worth it.

I guess I’ll just have to bite the bullet and get two new paddles - kind of like Christmas in May!

I also really do like the looks of the “Ergo” handle, but while my hands are not tiny, they are smaller. If the KeNalu Ergo handle is for larger hands, it is maybe not the best for me.

I’m wondering if anyone (Burchas???) knows if the small ZRE handle would fit on the KeNalu Xtuff(S) shaft?

P.S. - I’ll definitely put in a mention to the KeNalu distributor for you.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Beasho on May 03, 2018, 10:51:24 AM
Just curious - everyone says to go with a small blade in the surf for high rep, wouldn't a larger paddle blade make sense as you are trying to aggressively speed up/sprint to catch a wave?

PonoBill originally recommended the Molokai to me for this reason.  That was 7 years ago.  I have a Molokai but it would kill me now. 

I have since migrated to smaller and smaller and shorter and shorter paddles as has the rest of the surf community. Currently using the Mana 90 and love it.  There is no downside to small paddles.  The smaller the lighter the less stress on your shoulders . . . . .

The thing I have found trying to catch waves of significance, say 6 ft +++, is that the paddle speed gets to be very, very high.  I can paddle 15 mph and miss waves.  Using my GoPro and my Trace I can re-watch paddling 20 strokes on one side to catch a big wave, and getting up to 18+ mph before the catch.  Someone observed that in this situation EFFICIENCY MATTERS.  Don't just try to Cave-Man your way into the wave. 

There is NOTHING IN FLAT WATER that compares to this.  In this case you DO NOT WANT A BIG HEAVY BLADE you want high cadence.  The only exception might be people surfing pitchy shorebreak.  2 Strokes and you're in.  I do not typically do this. 
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: APPST_Paddle on May 03, 2018, 11:07:07 AM
Just curious - everyone says to go with a small blade in the surf for high rep, wouldn't a larger paddle blade make sense as you are trying to aggressively speed up/sprint to catch a wave?

PonoBill originally recommended the Molokai to me for this reason.  That was 7 years ago.  I have a Molokai but it would kill me now. 

I have since migrated to smaller and smaller and shorter and shorter paddles as has the rest of the surf community. Currently using the Mana 90 and love it.  There is no downside to small paddles.  The smaller the lighter the less stress on your shoulders . . . . .

The thing I have found trying to catch waves of significance, say 6 ft +++, is that the paddle speed gets to be very, very high.  I can paddle 15 mph and miss waves.  Using my GoPro and my Trace I can re-watch paddling 20 strokes on one side to catch a big wave, and getting up to 18+ mph before the catch.  Someone observed that in this situation EFFICIENCY MATTERS.  Don't just try to Cave-Man your way into the wave. 

There is NOTHING IN FLAT WATER that compares to this.  In this case you DO NOT WANT A BIG HEAVY BLADE you want high cadence.  The only exception might be people surfing pitchy shorebreak.  2 Strokes and you're in.  I do not typically do this.

That makes sense, right now my surf blade is 84 sq. in, and I'm debating what to do with the 95sq in. Ho'oloa. I was going to use it for racing, but I'm not sure if it will grind on my shoulders or not.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: JEG on May 03, 2018, 03:42:38 PM
spirit4earth, I only tried the mana 90 with xtuf shaft and t-handle. It has a great catch and hold and the shaft had good flex. I found the blade was a bit big for a 80kg 5'6 and I have to pay attention to my technique otherwise you will have shoulder problem. I think the 82 mana would be better suited for me.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: warmuth on May 03, 2018, 04:29:08 PM
O.K., I just took another look at the KeNalu website and I like the looks of the "Ergo" handle, if it fits a smaller hand???

Still have no idea which shaft would be best though.

And finally, when you order the paddle, does it just come in a standard length and then you have to cut it down yourself?

Thanks.

  I have smaller hands and the ergo is fine. The ergo T feels terrible to me. I'm not even sure why the ergo is recommended for larger hands specifically. Some people like the ergo T but I'm with Luc, it's got an edge that really digs into the hand. The ergo is nicely distributed pressure.


Yes the Ergo is better for a larger/longer hand
The shaft comes in 63" length and needs to be cut down with a smooth saw.
I have a few 100Flex and 90Flex shafts if you want to try these as they are lighter than the  Xtuf(s).


Thanks Luc,

Really appreciate the offer. I think though, if I’m going to do this, I’ll just go with the Xtuf(S) if that’s the one that will be easiest on my neck.

Funny thing is, I just ordered a new ZRE paddle. Am expecting it either today or tomorrow. Love their paddles, but if the KeNalu solves my sore neck then it’s probably worth it.

I guess I’ll just have to bite the bullet and get two new paddles - kind of like Christmas in May!

I also really do like the looks of the “Ergo” handle, but while my hands are not tiny, they are smaller. If the KeNalu Ergo handle is for larger hands, it is maybe not the best for me.

I’m wondering if anyone (Burchas???) knows if the small ZRE handle would fit on the KeNalu Xtuff(S) shaft?

P.S. - I’ll definitely put in a mention to the KeNalu distributor for you.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 03, 2018, 10:56:35 PM
I might actually go with a Wiki 74, if it would do well in flatwater.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: burchas on May 04, 2018, 05:22:48 AM
I also really do like the looks of the “Ergo” handle, but while my hands are not tiny, they are smaller. If the KeNalu Ergo handle is for larger hands, it is maybe not the best for me.

I’m wondering if anyone (Burchas???) knows if the small ZRE handle would fit on the KeNalu Xtuff(S) shaft?

I currently use my modified QuickBlade P40 with the KeNalu but I also have a small ZRE grip that fits.
If you have the oval ZRE small grip, it might fit but you will have to use extra glue. If it's the rounded one, I doubt it will fit.

Another option would be to the retrofit the Mana blade to fit the ZRE shaft, you get the best of both worlds, the Mana with a good oval shaft and a nice
grip would be a killer combination. I did that on my QB V-Drive and it is awesome, Mana is next on the list, as soon as my new oval flexi-shaft is dialed-in.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: warmuth on May 04, 2018, 05:44:52 AM
  Looks like I screwed up my post. I have small hands and the kenalu ergo handle is just fine. I don’t know why it’s recommended for larger hands specifically. The ergo T feels awful to me. I really wouldn’t worry too much about jumping through hoops to get a different handle. If you decide on a kenalu just use their ergo handle if you aren’t already a t shape fan.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: gone_foiling on May 04, 2018, 09:06:13 AM
  Looks like I screwed up my post. I have small hands and the kenalu ergo handle is just fine. I don’t know why it’s recommended for larger hands specifically. The ergo T feels awful to me. I really wouldn’t worry too much about jumping through hoops to get a different handle. If you decide on a kenalu just use their ergo handle if you aren’t already a t shape fan.

Funny how different we all are :) I just love ergo t from kenalu. My favorite grip so far.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: stoneaxe on May 04, 2018, 09:35:08 AM
I was thinking the exact same thing. I only use the ergo-T. I've tried all kinds of handles...I even made one custom shaped to my hands (it sucked). I've always said that paddles may be more personal than boards. One persons holy grail of paddles may feel horrible to someone else...even someone of similar size, shape and usage. Generalities can be found and telling folks what you like is valid but pointing at something and saying this is the best you should buy it is like telling someone they should love broccoli.... :)
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: warmuth on May 04, 2018, 12:09:18 PM
I was thinking the exact same thing. I only use the ergo-T. I've tried all kinds of handles...I even made one custom shaped to my hands (it sucked). I've always said that paddles may be more personal than boards. One persons holy grail of paddles may feel horrible to someone else...even someone of similar size, shape and usage. Generalities can be found and telling folks what you like is valid but pointing at something and saying this is the best you should buy it is like telling someone they should love broccoli.... :)

  There’s nothing in my post suggesting the ergo is the best for everyone. He is interested in the ergo and unsure because of the recommendation. My opinion is it’s fine and there’s no reason not to buy it. 
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: stoneaxe on May 04, 2018, 03:40:20 PM
Sorry warmuth....I realized after I had posted that it might look like that was aimed at you, it wasn't. I was just elaborating on what gzasinets posted and did it too quickly. I agree with your post in fact....I have big hands and don't use the ergo...my wife on the other hand (pun intended...:)) with small hands does. LOL....I hope she doesn't break it somehow because I'm sending spirit my last ergo handle, and a T handle too since I don't know which she'll like better.... ;)
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 04, 2018, 04:19:15 PM
Sorry warmuth....I realized after I had posted that it might look like that was aimed at you, it wasn't. I was just elaborating on what gzasinets posted and did it too quickly. I agree with your post in fact....I have big hands and don't use the ergo...my wife on the other hand (pun intended...:)) with small hands does. LOL....I hope she doesn't break it somehow because I'm sending spirit my last ergo handle, and a T handle too since I don't know which she'll like better.... ;)

I think I’ll really like the ergo, though it will be great to try both!
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: stoneaxe on May 04, 2018, 09:01:38 PM
I wanted to like the T handle. Even paddled the CCBC with it one year. They give great control but somehow it just isn't comfortable to me. Feels like it catches on my thumb in transfer. If I didn't have the ergoT I'd have the ergo. I know the ergoT is a popular handle (lol...spell check keeps changing the handle name to a hallucinogenic fungi...:) ) I'm pretty sure the ergoT has far out sold the others, even discounting the extended version.  Bill? Lane?
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: APPST_Paddle on May 08, 2018, 05:41:57 PM
I've been using the Ho'oloa 95 again for surfing, and I swear I can keep the same cadence as with my 84 sq in Hippostick and gain a lot more power. I'm still trying to decide what to do, I'm trying to decide if I make the Ho'oloa my race/flatwater paddle what to get for my surf paddle?

Mana 84? Wiki 84? I'm mainly looking for something that does not flutter and works well with bad technique (as I know my technique breaks down pretty bad when I'm chasing a wave).
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 08, 2018, 06:02:42 PM
I've been using the Ho'oloa 95 again for surfing, and I swear I can keep the same cadence as with my 84 sq in Hippostick and gain a lot more power. I'm still trying to decide what to do, I'm trying to decide if I make the Ho'oloa my race/flatwater paddle what to get for my surf paddle?

Mana 84? Wiki 84? I'm mainly looking for something that does not flutter and works well with bad technique (as I know my technique breaks down pretty bad when I'm chasing a wave).

I’m going to try a Konihi 84, thanks to stoneaxe and Lane.  I see a Wiki 74 in my future, too.
What I’m really jonesing for now is a Sunova Search 12!
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: JimK on May 10, 2018, 04:34:35 PM
Hey We can give you the ZONER DEAL on the KeNalu paddle
As far as Sunova Search
New one would have to come in the next container used wise the only one that MIGHT be around could be CREEK's but I kinda know he's not parting with his but who knows when he gets back from Thailand next month

Give me a call 484 515 5758

JimK
Extreme Windsurfing
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 12, 2018, 03:52:58 PM
I don’t see creek parting with any of his boards!  🙂
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Floridasup on May 13, 2018, 04:59:42 AM
Spirit,

I happen to have a Sunova 12' Search Hit me up.  I had to go to a 14 cause of weight.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 13, 2018, 09:49:20 PM
Spirit,

I happen to have a Sunova 12' Search Hit me up.  I had to go to a 14 cause of weight.

Pm sent
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 15, 2018, 11:57:25 AM
I think this info might be in the forum somewhere, but can a Ke Nalu 90 shaft be cut down to make a 71” paddle, using an Ergo handle?
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Luc Benac on May 15, 2018, 12:11:00 PM
I think this info might be in the forum somewhere, but can a Ke Nalu 90 shaft be cut down to make a 71” paddle, using an Ergo handle?

From the web site:
The first 6 inches of the handle end are not tapered to permit shortening the shaft without changing diameter. After 6" the shaft tapers .002" per inch of length. The blade end is reinforced with an extra layer of carbon fiber but can be trimmed 2" without compromising the reinforcement.
So that is 63" minus 8" = 55"
The Ergo handle is about 2" so that gives you 57" plus a Mana 82 blade 19" and it gives 76"
In practice you can cut a few more inches out of the top and put a lot of glue but not sure if you can cut 5" more.
If it is too much than a handle from Black Project or Blackfish paddles might work on the wider part of teh Kenalu shaft.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 15, 2018, 04:46:31 PM
I think this info might be in the forum somewhere, but can a Ke Nalu 90 shaft be cut down to make a 71” paddle, using an Ergo handle?

From the web site:
The first 6 inches of the handle end are not tapered to permit shortening the shaft without changing diameter. After 6" the shaft tapers .002" per inch of length. The blade end is reinforced with an extra layer of carbon fiber but can be trimmed 2" without compromising the reinforcement.
So that is 63" minus 8" = 55"
The Ergo handle is about 2" so that gives you 57" plus a Mana 82 blade 19" and it gives 76"
In practice you can cut a few more inches out of the top and put a lot of glue but not sure if you can cut 5" more.
If it is too much than a handle from Black Project or Blackfish paddles might work on the wider part of teh Kenalu shaft.

Well, that isn’t good news.  What about the Xtuff shafts?  Can they go shorter?
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Luc Benac on May 15, 2018, 05:20:19 PM
Same.
I do not know how short is my wife's but will check.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: spirit4earth on May 15, 2018, 05:31:48 PM
Same.
I do not know how short is my wife's but will check.

Thanks!  There must be a way to really shorten a Ke Nalu.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: stoneaxe on May 16, 2018, 06:01:57 AM
I've had no problems...my daughter is 5' even and has it cut 4" overhead. My wife is slightly taller at 5'4" and cut the same and neither has an extended handle, which takes away any worries and gives you adjustability with a hair dryer, so not really much of an issue. I'd go a little long on your 1st cut. Konihi blade wants to be buried and a slightly longer shaft helps.
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: suptropic on May 16, 2018, 09:39:31 AM
Hello! I'm new to South Florida and new to SUP racing, and I'm looking at getting a good, lightweight paddle for racing.  I've joined a weekly race league (for skills, fun & exercise) that does mostly 3 mile (4.8km) races, and occasional 5 to 7 mile (8 to 11.3km) races.  I recently purchased a 2nd hand JP Australia Race 14' x 27" 303L carbon board.  I've been reading a lot of posts about the Kenalu Mana, but I can't find any recommendations regarding size when it comes to racing; pretty much only surfing and downwinding.  The water here is primarily flat to choppy.  My initial thought is to go with the smaller Mana 82 to keep a higher cadence.  I'm 6ft / 170lbs and I'm in my mid-40's.  Any suggestions or thoughts on this paddle when it comes to racing? Thanks!
Title: Re: Wiki vs Mana vs Konihi vs Ho’oloa
Post by: Luc Benac on May 16, 2018, 10:00:19 AM
Hello! I'm new to South Florida and new to SUP racing, and I'm looking at getting a good, lightweight paddle for racing.  I've joined a weekly race league (for skills, fun & exercise) that does mostly 3 mile (4.8km) races, and occasional 5 to 7 mile (8 to 11.3km) races.  I recently purchased a 2nd hand JP Australia Race 14' x 27" 303L carbon board.  I've been reading a lot of posts about the Kenalu Mana, but I can't find any recommendations regarding size when it comes to racing; pretty much only surfing and downwinding.  The water here is primarily flat to choppy.  My initial thought is to go with the smaller Mana 82 to keep a higher cadence.  I'm 6ft / 170lbs and I'm in my mid-40's.  Any suggestions or thoughts on this paddle when it comes to racing? Thanks!

Same size, same weight. On a light 22 lbs race board, I am (slightly) faster with the Mana 90. At least for under 15km runs. On my UL Ace-GT definitely faster with Mana 90 or Hydro 85
Otherwise the Mana 82 is a great paddle and it will really depend on the way your paddling which will likely change over time anyway....Get both :-)
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