Brett, good to see you being open to trying something new. Scottish Lendal were my go-to paddles between 1983 and 1994, the Powermasters and their first wing paddles. The taper-lock: these are fantastic. They've been on my Knysna paddles for the last 6 years or so. Mine started to stiffen up after about 10,000km, but a tiny spot of oil made it feel brand new again. Like someone already said - if Werner don't go the same route, their standing will suffer. Drip-rings: glad to see that you now know they are not essential. I couldn't quite see the shaft finish on the Lendals in your vid, but hopefully they are as glossy-smooth as your Werners, in order to keep your palms baby soft! The only question is: How far are you going to go with this experimentation? There are lots of good paddle makers out there. I took a quick look at the Lendal website (there, they're getting some views thanks to you already!), but couldn't see any wing paddles. I know it will be pushing the envelope of your paddling comfort zone, but do give them a go - what's the worst that can happen? (a mid-wing or similar made by Epic might be a good starting point...)
I have the Storm in a straight shaft and love it, with its shorter blade I go one size down (215 versus my normal 220). But it doesn’t feel like a high angle to me (I paddle in between a high and low angle). There are times when I really prefer that one piece feel of the Werner paddles though, nothing sticking out to catch on stuff. I prefer to fly fish from a touring kayak, and the clamp on the Lendal could catch on fishing line or PFD depending on paddle position while casting. I too, am a little leery of the clamp and how durable it might be long term, if you like to throw each section into back of your vehicle, etc. but no issues so far. Great to see that you tried these, I plan to try a MCS version but they are slightly heavier than the straight version, like other bent shafts. I probably own too many paddles now but that’s what happens when a person owns kayaks for different uses. Some have suggested not using the Lendal paddles for whitewater, I use my Aquabounds for rivers because the reinforced nylon blades hold up better in those conditions.
yeah, tentatively it looks like Lendal is going to let me use the Voyager for a while more (It doesn't hurt that they are moving and have a lot on their plate, me returning a paddle is pretty low priority.) so I will see how it does, but so far no complaints.
Hey, I could be wrong but I think it was me who suggested trying a Lendal paddle in the videos you mentioned. Glad you finally got the chance to and glad that you liked them! The storm is what I use, so it was cool that you got a chance to try that as well. I think you're right about the throat shape replacing the need for drip rings, I've heard that before and it's my experience as well. Perhaps your next paddle will be a Lendal.
Well, I am glad you spoke up. I spent a lot of time trying to figure out who it was! I spoke to the owner (after the video was edited and uploaded) who confirmed it is the throat, and they are still refining it….perhaps….stay tuned.
Great review! It’s interesting for me to hear others reactions to experiences with gear that I use and love. The Lendal has been a game changer for me! A few years back I was getting my certification as an ACA L4 instructor in St Augustine Fl. The conditions that weekend were big and we got punished from day one. I had been paddling with my Gear Lab but it lacked the grip in the water to climb and hold on breaking wave faces. I pulled out my Werner Ikelos and used it the rest of the weekend. The Ikelos makes me nervous in big conditions due to the number of ferrules I have seen broken. Mine has a wobble to it and it is less than confidence inspiring. So, in comes Lendal. I’ve put my through the ringer and the common them is that I don’t even think about the paddle anymore. Total confidence in the gear is an incredible feeling. My Ikelos has a harsh initial bite that is hard on the body over a period of a day. My Lendal Storm(s) have a softer catch and ramp up the power in the strongest part of the stroke. Transitions and stroke blending are smooth and effortless. I was not a bent shaft paddler either. Tried several different brands and they did not feel natural. The MCS is all I paddle now! The hand is in front of the power face of the blade which allows you to have a light grip and the blade will automatically orient itself with zero flutter. The angle lessens forearm fatigue by allowing a more natural grip on the catch. They are the most well thought out design paddles I have ever put in my hands and worth every penny.
I am hoping to continue paddling with them (there are discussions going on….) The interesting thing, I just said in another comment which I didn’t say in the video. They are doing things other brands aren’t which is long over due. They are pushing the envelope in terms of design. And still beautifully designed and lighter than my Werner. Which I honestly can’t figure out.
I must say, I wished I’d looked at this video before ordering my Werner Athena this last week. I’m a Werner fan for years too. Used Camaro and now almost exclusively a bent shaft Kalliste. The reason for the change is my Kalliste is a 240cm paddle which I bought when I lived in VA and paddled mostly SOT kayaks that were 33-35” wide. Now after moving to coastal NC, I’m paddling touring kayaks 22-23” wide. I ordered a 220cm. I fell on a boat ramp in VA and dislocated my shoulder 2 years ago and I’m plagued with pain on longer trips. I’ve tried the Greenland paddle but just don’t seem to like it the way I’d want to. The Athena has a smaller blade surface than the Kalliste by 93cm2. I’m hoping to reduce shoulder pain with moving to shorter paddle and smaller blade. Sounds like the Lendal is in same price range and would have been worth considering. I’d really like to try both but even on the Werner, I didn’t get that opportunity. I guess we will see. Thank you for demonstrating and sharing thoughts. I always enjoy your insight and videos.
Hey George, thanks for watching and sorry to hear about your shoulder, and the continuing issues with it. I think the Lendal and the Werner are both great paddles, I have no doubt that you will enjoy the Athena. If you get a chance send me a video of you paddling from the front, I may see something in your stroke that is aggravating that shoulder (I recently did this with an instructor friend who was getting some shoulder pain and couldn’t figure out why)
Lendal could possibly be my next paddle purchase, we have a few at my work: Sea Kayak Connecticut. Lendal is moving their shop so production may be down until spring. Still trying to find out what blade would be best for me. Probably something around 205.
Let’s hope it doesn’t take that long for them to find a new home! The Storm i just paddled - it belonged to the trip leader - was a 205 and it felt very short to me. Ive paddled a 220 since the mid 1990’s. What are you paddling now?
A Werner haha.. Since I purchased a more narrow 21"w Zegul Arrowplay my 230cm has been a bit too long . Im finishing up my level 3 this weekend so Ive been borrowing a shorter paddle, seems to be making it easier. Not sure which brand I may choose Ive found some really interesting companies through my research.@@AdventureOtaku
@johnraffaghello3413 Werners are great paddles. But yeah unless you are 6’2” (which you may be) 230 is a lot of paddle in a 21” boat. Let me know what you end up with.
I have a Lendal Paddle with the same logo, but mine was made in Scotland. Hand made as well. I know the nearest I can get to my Lendal is a Celtic paddle as Lendal was bought out at some point. MIne has the Vari Padlok system which doesn't have the lever lock, which most paddles seem to be going over too. I was in my Local Canoe/Kayak shop and was talking about two piece paddle systems as I prefer a clean paddle also, and the Shop Manager said that he thinks of Werner doesn't adopter the lever lock system then they will get left behind. I have looked at the American made Lendals and it is the lever Lock that puts me off. Celtic does still do the Vari Padlok that I have they just don't give a price for them on the website. I have also toyed with the idea of getting a Greenland paddle as I like the idea of using one on longer paddles when I get more time and experience on the sea. That is a long way off yet as I am still working on getting other kit that I need first before thinking about other decent paddles.
That is the world’s best rain hat. I am not even kidding, I think there were three of them on the trip I just completed. The Outdoor Research Seattle Sombrero.
What were your thoughts about the Storm vs Voyager versions of the Lendal paddles? Performance or comfort differences? Price vs value compared to other (Werner) high-end paddles (like the Kalista or Camano)? Really enjoy your product review videos.
the storm compares to the Kalliste in terms of blade shape. I didn’t paddle it for long, it is there high angle paddle and I paddle low angle (which is why they didn’t send it to me, to test.) I can’t do a price vs value…. Both brands make amazing paddles, both brands are expensive. Both brands are pretty different. Lendal is really doing things other companies aren’t which is long overdue. Thanks for watching!
I paddled it…. Im not really a bent shaft person. So I have no realm of comparison. It was a very nice paddle. I didn’t feel a benefit from it, which is how I feel about all bent shafts…. So I have no real info for you. Sorry.
I paddle with a group in which several members paddle with a "premium" brand paddle that has the lever lock on the ferrule. I've lost count how many times the small screw in it has loosened while out on the water and not one appropriate sized screwdriver in sight. Do these have a similar lever system?
Well, without knowing which “premium” brand you are talking about I can’t say. There are several small screws. Probably small enough to be considered “jewelers” size. But if it happened once it would be nothing a little Loctite couldn’t fix. I may end up with one of these paddles long term (discussions are underway) and if I do manage to keep one I will definitely do a long term test video.
none except it is a great boat. I would really like to see the Fathom, which is 17 feet long. Eddyline is making some really beautiful thermoformed boats with the only thing I would say is that their designs lean towards recreation over kayak touring. Less aggressive hull shapes.. He actually put a backband in his which was a nice addition.
@@AdventureOtaku Yea Fathom is a nice boat....but for me at 68 a little more boat than I want to move around. I demo'd that and the Sitka and, for me, primarily a bay paddler with routine paddles at 4+ hours, and limited overnights, the Sitka seems better for me. And you are right, other than the Sitka's and the Fathom, everything else is more recreational. although all of thier Rec sit inside do have two bulkheads.
@@lenjanssen9600 That was me paddling the Sitka LT. The weekend of the video shoot was the 1 year anniversary of purchase. I've paddled 80+ paddles in that time, and I typically paddle 8-20 miles on a given session. I previously paddled a Tsunami 145, and it was the perfect upgrade for me. It edges very well, and while it doesn't have near the capacity of a Delta 17, it's great for overnight and weekend trips. Some have complained that it has bungee instead of stern lines behind the combing for paddle float self rescues, but I haven't had issues, (and I think it lessons the risk of a snapping the paddle shaft). Highly recommend getting the back band - makes self rescues much easier, and I haven't noticed any difference in comfort. I generally paddle large lakes and I don't get many opportunities to paddle in chop, so I can't provide any feedback along those lines. All in all, I've really enjoyed the boat.
@@Boilermaker92 Thanks so Much I demo'd one and really liked it. I was a little annoyed by the seatback and was considering the band so that's good info.
Nice honest review of your experience with Lendal...It's honest down to earth video's like this that help people decide what paddle to buy.
Thank you. And thanks for watching.
What a coincidence! I just met Nigel Dennis this past Thursday at Tybee Island! I took my first ever kayak surfing lesson from him!
Cool. I haven’t paddled Tybee it’s supposed to be beautiful.
Brett, good to see you being open to trying something new. Scottish Lendal were my go-to paddles between 1983 and 1994, the Powermasters and their first wing paddles. The taper-lock: these are fantastic. They've been on my Knysna paddles for the last 6 years or so. Mine started to stiffen up after about 10,000km, but a tiny spot of oil made it feel brand new again. Like someone already said - if Werner don't go the same route, their standing will suffer. Drip-rings: glad to see that you now know they are not essential. I couldn't quite see the shaft finish on the Lendals in your vid, but hopefully they are as glossy-smooth as your Werners, in order to keep your palms baby soft!
The only question is: How far are you going to go with this experimentation? There are lots of good paddle makers out there. I took a quick look at the Lendal website (there, they're getting some views thanks to you already!), but couldn't see any wing paddles. I know it will be pushing the envelope of your paddling comfort zone, but do give them a go - what's the worst that can happen? (a mid-wing or similar made by Epic might be a good starting point...)
Ive paddled wings a few times, but if one came across my bow i might give it another go.
I have the Storm in a straight shaft and love it, with its shorter blade I go one size down (215 versus my normal 220). But it doesn’t feel like a high angle to me (I paddle in between a high and low angle). There are times when I really prefer that one piece feel of the Werner paddles though, nothing sticking out to catch on stuff. I prefer to fly fish from a touring kayak, and the clamp on the Lendal could catch on fishing line or PFD depending on paddle position while casting. I too, am a little leery of the clamp and how durable it might be long term, if you like to throw each section into back of your vehicle, etc. but no issues so far. Great to see that you tried these, I plan to try a MCS version but they are slightly heavier than the straight version, like other bent shafts. I probably own too many paddles now but that’s what happens when a person owns kayaks for different uses. Some have suggested not using the Lendal paddles for whitewater, I use my Aquabounds for rivers because the reinforced nylon blades hold up better in those conditions.
yeah, tentatively it looks like Lendal is going to let me use the Voyager for a while more (It doesn't hurt that they are moving and have a lot on their plate, me returning a paddle is pretty low priority.) so I will see how it does, but so far no complaints.
Hey, I could be wrong but I think it was me who suggested trying a Lendal paddle in the videos you mentioned. Glad you finally got the chance to and glad that you liked them!
The storm is what I use, so it was cool that you got a chance to try that as well.
I think you're right about the throat shape replacing the need for drip rings, I've heard that before and it's my experience as well.
Perhaps your next paddle will be a Lendal.
Well, I am glad you spoke up. I spent a lot of time trying to figure out who it was! I spoke to the owner (after the video was edited and uploaded) who confirmed it is the throat, and they are still refining it….perhaps….stay tuned.
Great review!
It’s interesting for me to hear others reactions to experiences with gear that I use and love. The Lendal has been a game changer for me! A few years back I was getting my certification as an ACA L4 instructor in St Augustine Fl. The conditions that weekend were big and we got punished from day one. I had been paddling with my Gear Lab but it lacked the grip in the water to climb and hold on breaking wave faces. I pulled out my Werner Ikelos and used it the rest of the weekend. The Ikelos makes me nervous in big conditions due to the number of ferrules I have seen broken. Mine has a wobble to it and it is less than confidence inspiring.
So, in comes Lendal. I’ve put my through the ringer and the common them is that I don’t even think about the paddle anymore. Total confidence in the gear is an incredible feeling. My Ikelos has a harsh initial bite that is hard on the body over a period of a day. My Lendal Storm(s) have a softer catch and ramp up the power in the strongest part of the stroke. Transitions and stroke blending are smooth and effortless.
I was not a bent shaft paddler either. Tried several different brands and they did not feel natural. The MCS is all I paddle now! The hand is in front of the power face of the blade which allows you to have a light grip and the blade will automatically orient itself with zero flutter. The angle lessens forearm fatigue by allowing a more natural grip on the catch.
They are the most well thought out design paddles I have ever put in my hands and worth every penny.
I am hoping to continue paddling with them (there are discussions going on….) The interesting thing, I just said in another comment which I didn’t say in the video. They are doing things other brands aren’t which is long over due. They are pushing the envelope in terms of design. And still beautifully designed and lighter than my Werner. Which I honestly can’t figure out.
I must say, I wished I’d looked at this video before ordering my Werner Athena this last week. I’m a Werner fan for years too. Used Camaro and now almost exclusively a bent shaft Kalliste. The reason for the change is my Kalliste is a 240cm paddle which I bought when I lived in VA and paddled mostly SOT kayaks that were 33-35” wide. Now after moving to coastal NC, I’m paddling touring kayaks 22-23” wide. I ordered a 220cm. I fell on a boat ramp in VA and dislocated my shoulder 2 years ago and I’m plagued with pain on longer trips. I’ve tried the Greenland paddle but just don’t seem to like it the way I’d want to. The Athena has a smaller blade surface than the Kalliste by 93cm2. I’m hoping to reduce shoulder pain with moving to shorter paddle and smaller blade. Sounds like the Lendal is in same price range and would have been worth considering. I’d really like to try both but even on the Werner, I didn’t get that opportunity. I guess we will see. Thank you for demonstrating and sharing thoughts. I always enjoy your insight and videos.
Hey George, thanks for watching and sorry to hear about your shoulder, and the continuing issues with it. I think the Lendal and the Werner are both great paddles, I have no doubt that you will enjoy the Athena. If you get a chance send me a video of you paddling from the front, I may see something in your stroke that is aggravating that shoulder (I recently did this with an instructor friend who was getting some shoulder pain and couldn’t figure out why)
Lendal could possibly be my next paddle purchase, we have a few at my work: Sea Kayak Connecticut. Lendal is moving their shop so production may be down until spring. Still trying to find out what blade would be best for me. Probably something around 205.
Let’s hope it doesn’t take that long for them to find a new home! The Storm i just paddled - it belonged to the trip leader - was a 205 and it felt very short to me. Ive paddled a 220 since the mid 1990’s. What are you paddling now?
A Werner haha.. Since I purchased a more narrow 21"w Zegul Arrowplay my 230cm has been a bit too long . Im finishing up my level 3 this weekend so Ive been borrowing a shorter paddle, seems to be making it easier. Not sure which brand I may choose Ive found some really interesting companies through my research.@@AdventureOtaku
@johnraffaghello3413 Werners are great paddles. But yeah unless you are 6’2” (which you may be) 230 is a lot of paddle in a 21” boat. Let me know what you end up with.
I have a Lendal Paddle with the same logo, but mine was made in Scotland. Hand made as well. I know the nearest I can get to my Lendal is a Celtic paddle as Lendal was bought out at some point. MIne has the Vari Padlok system which doesn't have the lever lock, which most paddles seem to be going over too. I was in my Local Canoe/Kayak shop and was talking about two piece paddle systems as I prefer a clean paddle also, and the Shop Manager said that he thinks of Werner doesn't adopter the lever lock system then they will get left behind. I have looked at the American made Lendals and it is the lever Lock that puts me off. Celtic does still do the Vari Padlok that I have they just don't give a price for them on the website.
I have also toyed with the idea of getting a Greenland paddle as I like the idea of using one on longer paddles when I get more time and experience on the sea. That is a long way off yet as I am still working on getting other kit that I need first before thinking about other decent paddles.
in 50 miles or so, I had no issue with the lever lock - other than I would like markings on both sides of the joint. that's nit picky though.
Totally can see an Adventure Otaku logo paddle in your future...
….there are discussions going on…. Video from the trip will go live this weekend.
So good to see you again. Who sells these paddles?
Im here every week brother! I think some specialty shops carry them, but you can also buy direct.
I'd be curious on your opinion on Nimbus paddles if you could get your hands on one? They're based out of BC and are also a quite small company.
I have seen them (I think I have worked with some NOLS instructors who used them) but never paddled them. Tell them to send me one Ill do a video.
Great video as always. Non-paddle question....what's that hat you're wearing in the rain?
That is the world’s best rain hat. I am not even kidding, I think there were three of them on the trip I just completed. The Outdoor Research Seattle Sombrero.
What were your thoughts about the Storm vs Voyager versions of the Lendal paddles? Performance or comfort differences? Price vs value compared to other (Werner) high-end paddles (like the Kalista or Camano)? Really enjoy your product review videos.
the storm compares to the Kalliste in terms of blade shape. I didn’t paddle it for long, it is there high angle paddle and I paddle low angle (which is why they didn’t send it to me, to test.) I can’t do a price vs value…. Both brands make amazing paddles, both brands are expensive. Both brands are pretty different. Lendal is really doing things other companies aren’t which is long overdue. Thanks for watching!
What did you think of the bent shaft version? I use a bent Werner, sometimes I love it and sometimes I wish I had bought the straight.
I paddled it…. Im not really a bent shaft person. So I have no realm of comparison. It was a very nice paddle. I didn’t feel a benefit from it, which is how I feel about all bent shafts…. So I have no real info for you. Sorry.
I paddle with a group in which several members paddle with a "premium" brand paddle that has the lever lock on the ferrule. I've lost count how many times the small screw in it has loosened while out on the water and not one appropriate sized screwdriver in sight. Do these have a similar lever system?
Well, without knowing which “premium” brand you are talking about I can’t say. There are several small screws. Probably small enough to be considered “jewelers” size. But if it happened once it would be nothing a little Loctite couldn’t fix. I may end up with one of these paddles long term (discussions are underway) and if I do manage to keep one I will definitely do a long term test video.
I'm surprised you didn't mention the blade shape in your discussion.🤔
It’s very similar to the camano that I am already using.
@@AdventureOtaku I was thinking more about waxing pathetic on the physics of a dihedral spoon... *snark* 🤣
@kevincasey2947 um hmmmm…. I’ll get right on that
I see you were paddling with somone who had an EddyLine Sitka LT.....any observations, comments?
none except it is a great boat. I would really like to see the Fathom, which is 17 feet long. Eddyline is making some really beautiful thermoformed boats with the only thing I would say is that their designs lean towards recreation over kayak touring. Less aggressive hull shapes.. He actually put a backband in his which was a nice addition.
@@AdventureOtaku Yea Fathom is a nice boat....but for me at 68 a little more boat than I want to move around. I demo'd that and the Sitka and, for me, primarily a bay paddler with routine paddles at 4+ hours, and limited overnights, the Sitka seems better for me. And you are right, other than the Sitka's and the Fathom, everything else is more recreational. although all of thier Rec sit inside do have two bulkheads.
@@lenjanssen9600 That was me paddling the Sitka LT. The weekend of the video shoot was the 1 year anniversary of purchase. I've paddled 80+ paddles in that time, and I typically paddle 8-20 miles on a given session. I previously paddled a Tsunami 145, and it was the perfect upgrade for me. It edges very well, and while it doesn't have near the capacity of a Delta 17, it's great for overnight and weekend trips. Some have complained that it has bungee instead of stern lines behind the combing for paddle float self rescues, but I haven't had issues, (and I think it lessons the risk of a snapping the paddle shaft). Highly recommend getting the back band - makes self rescues much easier, and I haven't noticed any difference in comfort. I generally paddle large lakes and I don't get many opportunities to paddle in chop, so I can't provide any feedback along those lines. All in all, I've really enjoyed the boat.
@@Boilermaker92 Thanks so Much I demo'd one and really liked it. I was a little annoyed by the seatback and was considering the band so that's good info.