Hi everyone,

I recently bought a new starboard race 12'6" by 27,5 (2012).
I was wondering if it really helps to get a paddle that is made for long distance (longer, thinner blade) as a beginner long distance. I have been supping in waves for three years so I could use the same paddle. Or is it better to make the 'engine' and technique better before buying a paddle made for long distance?
thanks,
charlie

Hi Charlie

Most people including myself have different paddles for surfing & long distance/racing. A shortish paddle about head height with a smaller blade for surf & a longer one with a larger blade for racing. My race paddle is 10 inches overhead which allows me to comfortably cruise at a slower pace & also to dig in if I'm really trying to get power down.

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Zeusman said...
Hi Charlie

Most people including myself have different paddles for surfing & long distance/racing. A shortish paddle about head height with a smaller blade for surf & a longer one with a larger blade for racing. My race paddle is 10 inches overhead which allows me to comfortably cruise at a slower pace & also to dig in if I'm really trying to get power down.

We're all different...I run a short paddle with a big blade and flexy shaft in the surf, & lengthen it for downwinding. I use a mid-size blade and longer, stiffer shaft for flat water and distance (when I tend to work a higher cadence).

Yes SupCharlie, for long you should buy a new longer paddle.
Surf paddles are short for agility moviments.

If you would use a short, your lumbar will be destroyed...

I use one paddle, but ideally id run say a 90 blade and a longer shaft for distance and a 100 and shorter for sprinting, or surf.

I use the QB 100 to paddle long distance! The paddling is slower, I like it, buy a 90 is better for long trips.
The Werner and Kialoa have the different blade to the QB, longer and narrow. Some people love it.

It's each to there own,I use a QB slim Jim for cruising while in the surf a wider but shorter paddle.Each blade serves the purpose yet you can notice the different characteristics with each paddle.