KeNalu Mana or...?

[puget sound]

I read a bunch of old threads but still need some advice on buying a first "good" paddle. Please help!

I come from an outrigger canoe background where I used wooden paddles. For the last few months I've been on an SUP (totally hooked) with an 81" tall carbon paddle that has a 97 sq" blade. The shaft is probably too long and the blade too big. I can paddle it well enough, but with 97 inches there are no "easy" days. No injuries so far, but I imagine I'll hear a pop someday soon and discover an exploded shoulder.

The KeNalu line really appeals to me with its strong Zoner reviews and especially the modular way that the blade, shaft, and handle play together. I can imagine wanting to go up or down a couple inches, wanting to try different blades or handles over time. I have some old sports injuries to contend with.

From what I've read so far, I'm leaning toward a Kenalu Mana 82 or 90. Thoughts? I don't have enough experience with carbon to know what I like in shafts. Maybe the stock xTuf is a good place to start? Lastly, the cam on an adjustable shaft seems clunky, like it would get in the way of smooth transfers, but I do like the idea of being able to melt the hot glue on a fixed length shaft and try a slightly different length if necessary. Does the stock handle have that adjustability or do I need to order something special?

I'm 6' tall, 175lbs, 42 years old. Many thanks to all you active Zoners--this has been a great place for me to learn the ropes.

[puget sound]

Should have mentioned...I'm paddling in the Puget Sound of the Pacific NorthWest. Sometimes flat and glassy, more often wind chop, strong tidal flows, boat wake, & downbreezers. 14' board for fitness and casual races.

[PonoBill]

It depends somewhat on your stroke. If you get a good catch and bury the blade then the Mana 82 is great, but if you aren't burying the blade and getting a solid catch you might be happier with the 90. Personally, I'd go with the 82 and then watch the Johnny Puakea, Dave Kalama and Larry Cain videos to sharpen your technique enough to get full use out of it. I'm 6'2", 230, been paddling for 10+ years, and I use a Konihi 82 for downwind and flatwater and a Mana 90 for surfing.

I consider the xTuf(S) to be medicine for bad shoulders, but if your shoulders are good, then the 100 Flex is my preference.

[capobeachboy]

Same for me the Mana 82 is my go-to paddle with the xTuf S shaft.  So much easier on the hands and shoulders.

[unclesaltdog]

That would be an 84 Konihi you mean there wouldn't it Pono?

I loved my 84 Konihi paddle for flatwater but I sold mine (gave it to a friend actually) when I got my 82 and 90 Mana's.

I alternate between the 2 and usually use the 90 for downwind and the 82 for long flatwater grinds.
Tempted to get another 84 Konihi because I just seemed to like that more for flatwater but seem to prefer the Mana's for downwind, not sure why.

Whatever blade I am using I use the xtuff (S) shaft, it seems to have just the right amount of flex for me.
I tried the 90 and found it too stiff for my old shoulders.
I just use the standard ergo T handle these days now that I am pretty settled on length but used to use the extended ergo t, just using hot melt glue to adjust length not the clamp.

[PonoBill]

Yup, I don't remember all the numbers and names, especially when I'm typing.

I get a better catch with the Konihi than the Mana. I don't own a Mana 82, but I've tried one. I liked it a lot, but the Konihi catches better if you're being deliberate, which for me means downwind and flatwater.

The Mana catch is a little softer, but it is more forgiving. If you screw up with the Konihi you know it immediately, the Mana seems to self-correct a bit. You can't be WAY off, but it forgives sloppiness while the Konihi punishes it.

I use the extended handles as well and hot glue to change length. The adjustable stuff works OK but the hot glue solution is just elegant and works perfectly.

[puget sound]

I think I've got a decent catch, but also a rebuilt wrist and a tricky shoulder these days. Sounds like the Mana 82 with xTuf(s) and the extended handle is the way to go. I called JimK's shop this afternoon to order it. Couldn't ask for a friendlier guy to work with--especially since I caught him right at closing time. (Thanks, Jim!)

I've gorged on the Puakea and Kalama videos in the past, but hadn't found Larry Cain yet. His "SUP Drills" series will keep me busy for the foreseeable future. Thanks everyone for the tips.

[PonoBill]

Coming from an outrigger background I'm sure you get the reach, push, pause, pull thing of best catch. Doctrine in every OC group I've paddled with. You'll find that combination both comfortable and familiar.

[puget sound]

Yep, we spent most of our technique time on reaching and setting, over and over. The new (and fun) part for me is everything to do with standing: how much bend in the knees and hips, how to engage the knees/hips in the set and rotation, how foot placement and movements affect the board's glide, etc. Which is to say nothing of turning