The honest answer is: Yes. Nevertheless, cheap paddles are usually justified as vario paddles with an aluminium shaft and plastic blade: On the one hand, for beginners' training, because they are robust and adjustable to all sizes. Secondly, as a cheap replacement paddle, and above all - and this is where it gets interesting: for tough use on the river and in white water. But beware: aluminium vario paddles without buoyancy aid can sink. And 89 euros is no small price to pay.
BIC Alu 170-210 Vario, ML
For little money, you have a compact paddle in your hand. The buoyancy aid makes the paddle noticeably heavier, but it will never sink if lost. The hard plastic blade makes it less suitable for hard white water use. Power-saving blade size and shape. Price 89 EuroWeight 1.26 kgInfo www.bicsup.com
FANATIC aluminium 170-210, 3-piece, L
Uncomplicated training and replacement paddle. The Fanatic is compact but somewhat heavy in the hand due to the buoyancy aid on the shaft. Ideal whitewater paddle: slightly softer hard plastic blade, does not break easily; does not sink even in choppy water. Price 89 EuroWeight 1.3 kgInfo www.fanatic.com
NSP Epoxy 200-240, Vario The only epoxy paddle with a plastic blade - you notice this immediately from the weight. The extra ten euros are therefore well worth the investment. The power transmission is sporty and direct. Unfortunately, the knob is a little small and the vario system has play. Price 99,95 EuroWeight 1.18 kgInfo www.nspsurfboards.com
RED PADDLE Alu 170-210, Vario
The Red Paddle boasts a soft grip pad on the handlebar. It therefore sits comfortably in the hand. The knob also offers more comfort than its competitors. The shovel-shaped paddle blade has plenty of propulsion. For 89 euros, it is also recommended for white water. Price 89 EuroWeight 1.26 kgInfo www.redpaddleco.com
TABOU Alu 170-210, Vario
The classic for little money. The Vario paddle is robust and is also recommended for white water use. If you are looking for an almost indestructible replacement paddle at a good price, the Tabou is the right choice. Price 69 EuroWeight 1.16 kgInfo www.tabou-boards.com
