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Foam said..
Thanks but after flat and open water only so I guess the only choice is the pipes
My 2 cents...
As Area 10 has mentioned I would not rule out the GL Surf Wahine. The Slim diameter shaft + softer surf flex = comfort. Smallest blade area (79 sq IN) out of your choices but the heaviest by a tad but obviously the most durable.
Symmetrical blade for easy skimming and round edges to protect board.
Shaft may be too soft if you go racing later on but also that's personal preference.
Pipes II = Standard shaft and 83 sq IN. Perhaps stiffer flex than wahine surf.
Blade profile has slightly more catch and thinner blade so may paddle slightly more efficiently and little more power.
Hulu Small = Lightest out of the bunch and 87 sq IN and standard diameter. (Stiffest out of this lot but actually MED compared to other race paddles or SIC battle race paddle in particular). More solid catch than the Pipes and more efficient by having the thinnest blade of all and dihedral face. Smooth through the water but may feel more powerful than the rest. Great all around paddle for racing/downwinding/surf race. This what I use now, I'm 65kg.
Just heard new stock arriving very soon. I can't wait!
If you don't know already, you can ask him here about the paddles and stock:
gaastra.co.nz/contact/