Changing to a bent-shaft paddle

[genglish]

Being decidedly untrendy, I have stuck with my straight-shaft paddle because they're lighter, cheaper and less likely to break (or so I've heard). However I've had thumb and wrist surgery and may need to go to a bent-shaft. Any stories to share about changing paddles?

[dyaker]

Gwen

I will make it a short story- started with a straight shaft paddle thoght it was just fine. Upgraded to a bent shaft thought it was great. Bent shaft broke went back to a straight shaft and after 1 hour of paddling my wrists and arms were hurting. Definately go to a bent shaft you will love it. I wouldn't worry about it breaking after my one broke I have had this one for over three years with no problems.

[kathysines]

do it! you won't regret it! mine's 5-6 years old - no breakage. spend the money for the high dollar model - it's worth it.

Kathy

[swimmingrapids]

I have a werner double diamond and cant complain. No breakage problems. Now sheila on the other hand..........:huh:

[EricSoutherington]

I've gotta agree. I've had an AT2 for about 5 years. At the beginning, I thought it was delicate because of how it looked and felt, but I've been plenty rough with it for the last couple years and now I'm convinced that it's a relatively tough paddle.

I think the best part is that the bended grips gave me a better sense of blade angle and helped to "feel" the water better.

[roberts]

...blackmagic bent shaft.

Still going strong.

You're not the kind of paddler that is likely to break one. I don't see
you on California's Upper Cherry.

[Mike]

When you look at new paddles try a small bent shaft. I like the feel better the the normal bent shaft.

[genglish]

Okay, I'm convinced. Thanks for all your help.
Now...will I have a tough time making the change? Old dog - new tricks, you know? Or should I just jump in and not overthink it? Anybody been there, done that?

[dyaker]

Just jump in and don't overthink, you will notice it does feel different when you first start to paddle with it but it does not take long to adjust. I wouldn't use one on the Green river your first trip but for the rivers around here you will be fine.

[millarky]

...which has a VERY comfortable grip angle, small shaft for small hands, and is plenty sturdy for us Terminal Twos. Would you like to try mine? I also have an AT2 which I'm quite fond of. I can go back and for betwixt the two with no issues. I do find the Seven2 better for those sore hand days though.

Mary