Great video! I purchased a Hydro Flow X that is 216 cm, stiff shaft, and XL blade a couple of months ago. I'm 6'4 and 220 with pretty long arms. It's been great so far. I had a more flexible shaft on my Blackfish that actually snapped. As I started to surf and do more sprint like paddling, and it just couldn't hold up.
I came back on the BP website today and I am so surprised nowhere there are informations on sizes, surfaces of the blades. Even the flex is not clear, Starboard does it so precisely!
Still have immense reservations about the use of overall height to get your paddle length. Neck and head lengths are not a constant function of total body length and the paddling is all done relative to the shoulder. The neck andhead play almost no structural part in paddling. Isn't it time we re-developed the paddle length starting point from the height of the tip of the shoulder? Probably the greater tubercle?
I Have a lot of paddles but if I had to choose one it would be a two piece adjustable. 10 years of sup race/tour/surf. I use a different height for each and my iSUps sit higher then my dropped hard sup. So, the whole height thing to me Is a crap shoot.
It appears that Black Paddle Project has some very nice paddles, but they are not really in my price range for a beginner/intermediate paddler. I'm looking at the Naish Rush. I'm 6'4.5' so the same height as you but, at a weight of 180 lbs and not that strong. I recently purchased (waiting for it's arrival) a Starboard 12.6 Touring Zen Single Chamber board. With my height do you have any other suggested paddles? I only paddle creeks, rivers, lakes. Thanks I've enjoyed your channel thoroughly.
Don't understand the flex idea of the paddle. I'm 5'10" and 155 lbs. Looking at buying a red paddle co 13'2" with 347L of volume. Assuming I'm a smaller rider why would I want flex in the padle? Can't I transfer more power into the water if my padle is more stiff? Don't you loose energy on the fex, instead of propelling you though the water?
Good question, think if it as more like storing energy then it is being released. Too flexible just works against you, and at end of day it’s preference. I have a very stiff small area blade for high cadence, and a flexible shaft large area blade for slow cadence but lots of power. All depends on conditions, Eduarance, disipline , body type and what just feels right for you :) Eff it chat Gpt Choosing the right paddle for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) involves considering several factors, including paddle blade size, shape, shaft flexibility, and the paddler's style and preferences. Here are some key considerations: 1. **Blade Size and Shape**: - **Small Blade**: Ideal for high cadence paddling, racing, and lighter paddlers. Smaller blades are easier to pull through the water quickly, allowing for a faster paddle rate. - **Large Blade**: Suitable for slow cadence paddling, touring, and larger or stronger paddlers. Larger blades can move more water per stroke, providing more power and efficiency for long-distance paddling or in challenging conditions. - **Shape**: The blade's shape affects how it moves through the water. A teardrop shape provides a powerful catch at the start of the stroke, while a rectangular blade offers a more consistent pull throughout the stroke. 2. **Shaft Flexibility**: - **Stiff Shaft**: Provides more immediate power transfer and efficiency, ideal for racing or strong paddlers who can handle the additional strain on their bodies. - **Flexible Shaft**: Offers a more forgiving and comfortable paddle experience, reducing strain on joints and muscles, making it suitable for recreational paddlers and long-distance touring. 3. **Paddle Length**: The length of the paddle should be adjusted based on the paddler’s height, board thickness, and paddling style. A general guideline is to choose a paddle that is 8-12 inches taller than the paddler's height for all-around use. Racers may prefer a slightly longer paddle, while surfers might opt for a shorter one for better maneuverability. 4. **Materials**: - **Carbon Fiber**: Lightweight and strong, providing excellent performance but at a higher cost. - **Fiberglass**: Offers a good balance of performance and affordability, with moderate weight and stiffness. - **Aluminum or Plastic**: More affordable and durable, but heavier and less efficient, making them suitable for beginners or casual paddlers. 5. **Adjustable vs. Fixed Length**: - **Adjustable Paddles**: Versatile and convenient for different users or changing conditions. They are slightly heavier and may have more moving parts that can wear out over time. - **Fixed Length Paddles**: Lighter and potentially more durable, with a custom fit for the paddler’s specific needs. 6. **Conditions and Paddling Style**: - **Racing**: Lightweight, stiff shaft, and small to medium blade for high cadence. - **Touring**: Medium to large blade with a flexible shaft for comfort and endurance. - **Surfing**: Shorter paddle with a medium blade for quick maneuverability and control. Ultimately, the best paddle for you depends on your specific needs, body type, paddling conditions, and personal preferences. Trying out different paddles can help you determine what feels most comfortable and efficient for your paddling style.
Best paddle I have used.
Great video! I purchased a Hydro Flow X that is 216 cm, stiff shaft, and XL blade a couple of months ago. I'm 6'4 and 220 with pretty long arms. It's been great so far. I had a more flexible shaft on my Blackfish that actually snapped. As I started to surf and do more sprint like paddling, and it just couldn't hold up.
thanks .. very informative
I came back on the BP website today and I am so surprised nowhere there are informations on sizes, surfaces of the blades. Even the flex is not clear, Starboard does it so precisely!
All the sizing is shown on the website, full details, let me know if you have any questions.
Why there is not an oval shaft available on the Hydro Flow X? I am very fond of my oval PP Lima shaft.
Still have immense reservations about the use of overall height to get your paddle length. Neck and head lengths are not a constant function of total body length and the paddling is all done relative to the shoulder. The neck andhead play almost no structural part in paddling. Isn't it time we re-developed the paddle length starting point from the height of the tip of the shoulder? Probably the greater tubercle?
I Have a lot of paddles but if I had to choose one it would be a two piece adjustable. 10 years of sup race/tour/surf. I use a different height for each and my iSUps sit higher then my dropped hard sup. So, the whole height thing to me
Is a crap shoot.
..if Mitch Hedburg were to explain paddle sizes..
It appears that Black Paddle Project has some very nice paddles, but they are not really in my price range for a beginner/intermediate paddler. I'm looking at the Naish Rush. I'm 6'4.5' so the same height as you but, at a weight of 180 lbs and not that strong. I recently purchased (waiting for it's arrival) a Starboard 12.6 Touring Zen Single Chamber board. With my height do you have any other suggested paddles? I only paddle creeks, rivers, lakes. Thanks I've enjoyed your channel thoroughly.
Don't understand the flex idea of the paddle. I'm 5'10" and 155 lbs. Looking at buying a red paddle co 13'2" with 347L of volume. Assuming I'm a smaller rider why would I want flex in the padle? Can't I transfer more power into the water if my padle is more stiff? Don't you loose energy on the fex, instead of propelling you though the water?
Good question, think if it as more like storing energy then it is being released. Too flexible just works against you, and at end of day it’s preference. I have a very stiff small area blade for high cadence, and a flexible shaft large area blade for slow cadence but lots of power. All depends on conditions, Eduarance, disipline , body type and what just feels right for you :)
Eff it chat Gpt Choosing the right paddle for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) involves considering several factors, including paddle blade size, shape, shaft flexibility, and the paddler's style and preferences. Here are some key considerations:
1. **Blade Size and Shape**:
- **Small Blade**: Ideal for high cadence paddling, racing, and lighter paddlers. Smaller blades are easier to pull through the water quickly, allowing for a faster paddle rate.
- **Large Blade**: Suitable for slow cadence paddling, touring, and larger or stronger paddlers. Larger blades can move more water per stroke, providing more power and efficiency for long-distance paddling or in challenging conditions.
- **Shape**: The blade's shape affects how it moves through the water. A teardrop shape provides a powerful catch at the start of the stroke, while a rectangular blade offers a more consistent pull throughout the stroke.
2. **Shaft Flexibility**:
- **Stiff Shaft**: Provides more immediate power transfer and efficiency, ideal for racing or strong paddlers who can handle the additional strain on their bodies.
- **Flexible Shaft**: Offers a more forgiving and comfortable paddle experience, reducing strain on joints and muscles, making it suitable for recreational paddlers and long-distance touring.
3. **Paddle Length**: The length of the paddle should be adjusted based on the paddler’s height, board thickness, and paddling style. A general guideline is to choose a paddle that is 8-12 inches taller than the paddler's height for all-around use. Racers may prefer a slightly longer paddle, while surfers might opt for a shorter one for better maneuverability.
4. **Materials**:
- **Carbon Fiber**: Lightweight and strong, providing excellent performance but at a higher cost.
- **Fiberglass**: Offers a good balance of performance and affordability, with moderate weight and stiffness.
- **Aluminum or Plastic**: More affordable and durable, but heavier and less efficient, making them suitable for beginners or casual paddlers.
5. **Adjustable vs. Fixed Length**:
- **Adjustable Paddles**: Versatile and convenient for different users or changing conditions. They are slightly heavier and may have more moving parts that can wear out over time.
- **Fixed Length Paddles**: Lighter and potentially more durable, with a custom fit for the paddler’s specific needs.
6. **Conditions and Paddling Style**:
- **Racing**: Lightweight, stiff shaft, and small to medium blade for high cadence.
- **Touring**: Medium to large blade with a flexible shaft for comfort and endurance.
- **Surfing**: Shorter paddle with a medium blade for quick maneuverability and control.
Ultimately, the best paddle for you depends on your specific needs, body type, paddling conditions, and personal preferences. Trying out different paddles can help you determine what feels most comfortable and efficient for your paddling style.
Can't you controll what amount of paddle enteters the water, there eliminating the need of a more flexible shaft?
Can you please respond to the email i sent you?