I would love some recommendations on a good surf SUP paddle. I've checked out the different brand websites but it's confusing as all hell.

I have a 5 year old Kialoa Methane has been great, but I think the blade is too big for me at 97sq inch. I tend to only put it part way into the water when paddling for a wave to help speed up my paddle cadance. I'm 74kgs, ride a 8'6 JP Pro.

Thanks.

whats your budget and do want full carbon, hybrid-carbon/glass or glass/nylon? Ohhh ya, that blade you using is too big for ya. Have a chat with your local sup shop?

I spent $500 on the Methane, so would be happy to spend about the same. I'm guessing it's full carbon? Seems pretty light. What size blade do people use in the surf?

If you don't have any shoulder issues, go a large blade. The extra power is great when pulling onto a wave.

The new Kialoa Pipes 2 is awesome with much smaller blade and softer shaft than your old Methane.

I was thinking the Pipes would be a good option. It seems like a big transition from a 97 sq blade to a 83 sq blade though.

unless the large blade is giving your shoulders grief or your tiring too early, why go down in size? I recommend you go in the surf and try 2 blade sizes on the same day and I bet you prefer the larger one (aslong as its not too large!)

Kenalu wiki for my vote with an xtuf shaft

Great surf paddle, smallish blade, light and can take knocks.

I've had Kenalu's as race and surf paddles for about 5 years...never broken one and had zero issues.....easy to cut/re glue etc..

I'm of a similar weight to you dreadloc.... good luck.

+1 for a Kenalu Wiki

I'm a bit of a paddle snapper and "downgraded" from a Quickblade AC90 to the composite Wiki 74 with xtuf shaft

Zero regrets so far, the smaller blade size still seems to pull well (I'm only 70kg and ride small boards) the little bit extra flex is nice and in theory it shouldn't take damage or snap as easily. One of my favourite features though is the grip on the shaft no more messy wax and it's especially handy when I have sunscreen left on my hands. Only downside is the cheap looking graphics but that's not a huge concern.

I'd just try as many as you can back to back, that's really the best test. I was all for the larger paddle face (I had a KeNalu Ho'oloa 95). I tried a few smaller paddles and felt a drop in power. Then I tried a HippoStick Al Pro 84 back to back with my Ho'oloa and loved it. I'm able to make quicker, shorter strokes that get me up and going faster than the longer strokes with the Ho'oloa.

So, moral of the story - try paddles back to back, it's a lot of personal preference.