Currently using a ali paddle and Im thinking of up grading to something better. Ive been told the fanatic 35 is a excellent paddle for the price $259, would you agree or would I be better saving a bit more and getting something slightly more gucci. Im fairly new to supping, 70kgs and go out in 75%flat water 25% surf. TIA

In my opinion that would be the bare minimum paddle to go for.
A wise paddler told me he would paddle any crap Chinese made board but he would never skimp on his quality of paddle.

The paddle is the extension of you (the engine) the minute you paddle with a top end paddle you just know the difference and wont go back.

If you like the fanatic go the carbon 80 model. If you can find a new 2015 carbon 80 model at a shop still u will get one for under $300. Otherwise the 2016 is only $340

$600-$800 for a kenalu or quickblade is alot of money but i soon realised that is an investment for hopefully 2 plus years its worth every cent.

It really depends on the use of your paddle. Considering you're spending so much time in the surf - 25%, I'd use the carbon 80 Fanatic as a minimum. The 100% is an awesome paddle and alot cheaper than some of the over priced brands. It is great for surf and flat water. Depending on the style of paddling you're doing you have an option of a 7.25 or 8 blade width.

I third that on the carbon 80 paddle. I have a carbon 100 and love it but the 80 is equally as good. I have gone to a 7.25 blade from a 8 and it was one of the best decisions I made. It amazes me how people spend alot on a board but then go cheap on the paddle. Your paddle is so critical to the whole experience that you need to get the best you can so push the budget about a wee bit more you'll find you wont regret it long term.

I have a fanatic carbon adjustable from last year and it is fabulous. I saw the new ones just the other day when I dropped a deposit on another board. The carbon 35 was a real surprise when I picked it up. It is light and well made. I have a 7.25 blade which suits me. It equates to 92 square inches. I don't think you could go wrong with it. Get what one you can afford because the carbon 80 felt even better. They are great paddles. I am still deciding which one I am going to choose in 3 piece for the incoming inflatable. If I can stretch the budget it will be the carbon 80.

I bought the carbon 35 a few weeks ago after I snapped a carbon 80.

I love it it is def a bit heavier than the other but the blade shape is sensational to use in my opinion and it is the same as the 80 and 100 blades in that regard.

The point about spending big on the paddle and not the board is you don't progress out of a paddle like you do a board. However... You have to buy a board that works!!! I paid less for scrappy Allwave than a shiny new Chinese board... Buy a proven shape and Dem if you can.