Aluminium paddles , although robust , are heavy , causing unnecessary strain . Fibreglass paddles are lighter , and carbon fibre is even more so .
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Aluminium paddles , although robust , are heavy , causing unnecessary strain . Fibreglass paddles are lighter , and carbon fibre is even more so .
Board In the simplest terms , the bigger the surface area of the board , the more resistance in the water . Therefore , too big a board can lead to early fatigue and poor technique , potentially resulting in injury . A board too small for you , however , can lead to bowing or be too unstable . Poor quality and ill inflated boards also cause excess resistance .
Various board shapes help reduce resistance , improve stability , or work with the conditions , e . g . longer narrower boards , particularly those with hull shaped noses , have improved glide and consequently are better for touring and racing . A wide board can make it more difficult for those with narrower shoulder girdles , reduced mobility or previous / existing injuries to keep the paddle vertical ( if looking face on ) and lead to strain .
Therefore , look for a board that ’ s a suitable volume for your weight and appropriate shape for you and your discipline . All-rounders are great if you want to do several disciplines but can only afford one board ; however , they often lack more specialist features .
Paddle Paddles that are too long will begin to strain your shoulders and upper back , often leading to impingement injuries . Paddles that are too short for your discipline will cause strain on the lower back through over hinging . The general guide is for the paddle height to be 6-8 ” higher than your head , but this does change slightly with various disciplines , e . g . shorter for white water or surfing and longer for racing .
The weight and flex of your paddle is a factor too . Aluminium paddles , although robust , are heavy , causing unnecessary