Vario paddles between around 150 and 220 euros - that was the target for this paddle test. A price segment in which ambitious hobby paddlers are increasingly looking around. And for good reason. Because in this class you can already expect a really decent paddle. Most of the paddles on offer for around 130 euros are heavy beginner and hire paddles, which will probably be discarded after one season at the latest: Robust aluminium paddles with cheap plastic handles and sometimes wobbly adjustment mechanisms.
In this test environment, high-quality blades and laminated shafts, some with a considerable carbon content, predominate. We specified a "medium" blade size for the compilation. Almost all paddles are between 85 and 95 mm blade size. The specification in square inches has now become established for paddles and is at least included by most manufacturers. You will also find the specification in square centimetres, which should be between 400 and 700, and the width in inches, usually between 7" and 8.5", whereby the width specification is the least useful. Two paddles of the same width can be completely different in size depending on their shape and length.
We have tested these paddles:
A 100-inch paddle is already a really big paddle, less suitable for more frequent paddling and long distances, and an 80-inch paddle is already very petite and too unpressurised for stronger pulls. Youth paddles are around 65 square inches. In the test field, all paddles offer roughly the same pressure, an all-round size for really stepping on the gas or enjoying nature at a relaxed pace. The selected range is the most commonly used size for men and women. The BIC paddle is slightly smaller in terms of pressure build-up, while the Sigma, RRD, Sup-Monsters and Black Project paddles are more powerful.
Paddlers with a strong pull and sporting ambition are recommended the stiffest models: from Black Project, Croslake, JP-Australia, Mistral, Sigma and Starboard.
Paddlers who are looking for the lightest possible paddling feel are likely to find what they are looking for at: Black Project, Croslake, Fanatic, Quatro, RRD, Sup-Monsters and Starboard.
If robustness and a favourable price count, you probably can't go past BIC and GTS. It may flex a little, but it shouldn't be too heavy either, a classic all-rounder? This includes paddles from Fanatic, Indiana, JP-Australia, Mistral, NoveNove, Red Paddle, RRD, Starboard and Sup-Monsters.
How does the leaf dip?
Firstly: All test paddles are great to paddle. If you also want to demonstrate a clean, splash-free paddling style, the GTS (below), for example, is particularly easy. Even with a rough paddling style, the paddle dives in as smoothly as a Chinese Olympic high diver. In particular, some paddles with very thin blades, such as the Mistral (left, red) or the Starboard or BIC, require more sensitive handling. It was noticeable that the more clearly profiled paddles such as those from Indiana (left, black), Fanatic, NoveNove or SUP Monster were also particularly easy to paddle.
Marking line
Printed labels help you to quickly find the right length setting. The testers liked the fact that the total length is indicated (top) and not just the extension length, for example four or six centimetres (left). On the paddle on the left, with a keen eye you can also find a marking on the clamp, which is intended to facilitate the exact alignment of the handle and blade on the blue line. Unfortunately, this did not fit exactly on any of the paddles in the test.
THE HANDLES
The handle is your connection to the water. On one trip alone, you may use it to apply pressure, steer and turn the paddle two or three thousand times. A thousand reasons to take a closer look.
BIG and SMALL
The two most extreme handles give a haptic impression somewhere between Japanese chopsticks and a Canadian axe handle. The large handle from NoveNove looks very ergonomic and, surprisingly, somehow fits almost all glove sizes quite well. It just seems quite bulky. The smallest handle on the BIC paddle is also elaborately shaped, but even medium-sized hands cannot make optimum use of the tight curves. As a result, the handle looks very dainty and is less convincing for larger hands - even if you can of course paddle properly with it. In the test, these two correspond to sizes "S" and "L". Most paddles are exactly in between with size "M" and are very versatile.
Carbon vs. plastic
Who can recognise the fake? The lower handle is made of (expensive) carbon fibre. Matt and smooth, it lies flatteringly in the hand. Loved by all test paddlers. The upper handle is made of (cheap) plastic. The embossed structure is probably intended to convey a carbon look. This does not make the paddle easier to grip, the feel is not bad, but it is not really popular either. The only advantage is the robustness against impacts, which carbon cannot offer.
Ergonomics
Statistically, the two most popular grip shapes look like this after this test. The classic "palm grip", on the right, is frequently used. The grip shape on the left, in which the grip tube on the hand side merges into the grip in a continuous curve, is almost even better. Ultimately, this is a matter of taste.
(SECRET) CLOSED MATTER
Clever details that have proven themselves in the test and possible weak points to look out for when buying.
How stiff does a paddle need to be?
The softest paddle in the test bends almost three times as far in the centre under load as the stiffest. A disadvantage? That depends on who it's for and for what purpose.
For racers, there is really only one option that is better than stiff - even stiffer. For touring paddlers, this can be too hard. Whilst the Croslake is also suitable for very ambitious paddlers, no racer would choose the GTS River. But this paddle also has its advantages: Soft damping for leisurely paddling and super easy "catch" - the dipping of the blade at the front. For sporty touring paddlers, we would recommend at least a medium stiffness. For pleasure paddlers, almost all paddles are sufficiently stiff. In addition to the GTS, most paddlers with a somewhat faster pace found the Naish Performance to be particularly soft. With Naish, it is recommended to use the "Carbon" in the same thin diameter if you want a more direct power transmission. Depending on your taste and the power you bring to the blade, you will find the classification between "flex" and "stiff" in the test.
ANTI-TWIST DEVICES
Some people don't care, others no longer want a paddle "without". When it comes to anti-twist protection, everything is colourful.
"That should be standard," commented one tester. We were delighted with how quickly and safely the Naish and Starboard paddles (left and centre) can be adjusted on the water. A guide groove in the handle tube keeps the knob exactly in line with the blade: the paddle is adjusted in two easy steps. "I don't need it, I adjust the paddle once and then leave it like that anyway" said another tester laconically. If you like to adjust the length of your paddle frequently, this is a super practical aid. The BIC system with pin fastener (right) is also twist-proof. However, the adjustability on the water is not so elegant because you need both hands on the fastener to open it.
PADDLES THAT HAVE PASSED THROUGH MANY HANDS
From glove size 7 to 12, from racers to pleasure paddlers, from light ladies to burly blokes. Fortunately, the range of paddles is as diverse as the test team. Here are the test results:
BIC SUP ORIGINAL FP
Price 149 Euro Length* 171-210 cm Tube diameter* 29.1 mm Available sizes** n/a Sizes** n/a A. Weight* 950 grams Adjustment system Pin double Grip size* S Web www.bicshop.de
Bic is launching a paddle for the ages. The heavy but affordable paddle offers an extremely robust blade, which is definitely river-worthy, and a rather damping GRP shaft, combined with a carbon fibre extension tube. This results in a very flexible paddle on the test bench, which doesn't look super soft on the water due to the small blade, as the blade builds up less pressure. Due to the small handle, the paddle looks delicate in the upper hand - the strongly contoured handle is best suited to small hands - but quite powerful in the lower hand with its massive-looking shaft. The adjustment system is bombproof, but not completely free of play.
Conclusion: An inexpensive, robust paddle with a solid adjustment mechanism and blade.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
BLACK PROJECT PURE
Price 209 Euro Length* 174-228 cm Tube diameter* 29.5 mm Available sizes** 95 Inch² Weight* 66 grams Sizes** 95 Inch² Weight* 662 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.supshop.de
The Black Project is equipped with one of the most popular grip shapes, the smooth, red pommel lies flatteringly in every hand. The lower hand grips a slightly slimmer (29 mm), elegantly finished shaft with a 50 per cent carbon content, just like the Variorohr. There you won't find any features such as an anti-twist lock, but you will find proper labelling and a solid clamp. When paddling, the "Pure" is very light, especially in the blade, which ensures a very pleasant "swing weight" - energy-saving pre-swing after the pull. The lightly constructed blade provides this airy feeling, but experience has shown that it is better not to poke around on the stones in the river.
Conclusion: Very light, stiff and grippy: The Black Project is a top insider tip.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
CROSLAKE MARIN 2
Price 220 Euro Length* 186-230 cm Tube diameter* 29.2 mm Available sizes** 8'' Sizes** 8.0'' Weight* 562 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.croslake.com
Stiff as a hammer and light as a feather - the Croslake looks like a race paddle in this group: full carbon from the ergonomically very comfortable handle down to the blade. The favourable price in direct sales makes a paddle possible that should be in the next higher price category in terms of the materials used. No paddle remains stiffer even at the sportiest pace, no paddle swings more easily. The thin blade requires some feeling when inserting and in the pull phase, but then paddles quickly and easily with good pressure build-up. The new adjustment system with a flattened extension tube on one side prevents twisting, but does not guide as well as the groove systems.
Conclusion: Price-performance winner. Super light, but also stiff enough for the strongest paddlers.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
FANATIC CARBON 35 ADJUSTABLE
Price Euro Length* 166-220 cm Tube diameter* 29.7 mm Available sizes** 7.25''/90 Inch² Weight Sizes** 7.25''/90 Inch² Weight* 740 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M-L Web www.fanatic.com
The comparatively more elaborately designed paddle is not the lightest on the scales, but like the Indiana it is very well balanced. The handle sits really well in the hand, regardless of glove size, and the blade dips very forgivingly and cleanly. The Vario system is held securely in place by a clamp with two screws, a marking shows the length but unfortunately does not help with the alignment of the handle. Most paddlers should have a lot of fun with the Fanatic paddle, it likes a leisurely pace, but also sometimes more frequent, sporty paddling. It is slightly damped and comfortable, with good pressure and a direct feel for the blade.
Conclusion: A particularly well-balanced paddle, also among the lighter ones in terms of weight.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
GTS RIVER 8'5''
Price 169 Euro Length* 168-228 cm Tube diameter* 29 mm Available sizes Sizes** 8.5'' Weight* 872 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.grandtoursports.com
On the river, every gram is not important, the paddle should last. Stiffness is not the most important thing. The blade is reinforced all round with an impact-resistant edge and the shaft is made of robust GRP. The closure is somewhat angular, the grip very comfortable. The paddle blade is mounted almost without a lead angle, but is strongly curved and paddles particularly easily, as if it were literally sucking itself into the water. The ribs on the back may look rustic, but they stiffen the blade and do not interfere with clean insertion in any way. This means that the river paddle can still be used on moderate tours, but it is comparatively too soft for the sporty sixth gear, especially in the hands of strong paddlers.
Conclusion: Very robust river paddle, also suitable for touring beginners.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
INDIANA FIBREGLASS
Price 239 Euro Length* 183-220 cm Tube diameter* 29 mm Available sizes** 9'' Sizes** 9.0'' Weight* 762 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M-L Web www.shop.indiana-sup.com
The Indiana offers a nice mix of stiffness, good weight and a grippy, matt shaft with a little flex. Above all, it feels very balanced and poised in the hand. The adjustment system is held securely with two screws and a milled groove acts as a guide rail so that the paddle can be adjusted quickly without the handle twisting. The entire clamp is pleasantly rounded and the handle was one of the most popular shapes in the entire test field, regardless of hand size. You can feel the flex with strong strokes, but it remains within limits and also fulfils sportier demands; the blade dips cleanly, even with careless paddling technique.
Conclusion: A particularly well-balanced paddle, also among the lighter ones in terms of weight.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
JP-AUSTRALIA CARBON GLASS
Price 229 Euro Length* 170-225 cm Tube diameter* 29.7 mm Available sizes** 90 Inch² Weight* 85 grams Sizes** 90 Inch² Weight* 853 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* S-M Web www.jp-australia.com
The JP paddle is amazingly similar to the Mistral blindfolded. The knob, vario system and clamp are almost identical. Here, too, you will find the less grippy, rough-textured plastic handle, but also the bombproof clamp. The paddle convinces with very good stiffness, the thin blade needs to be guided a little more cleanly, but then builds up pressure well, and among the "heavier" paddles on the scales it convinces with low centrifugal mass, which is probably due to the high-quality carbon blade, which is rare in this group and stands in stark contrast to the handle material used. The markings on the clamp are practical and help to align the handle correctly.
Conclusion: A very well-balanced paddle with good stiffness.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
MISTRAL KANOA
Price 149 Euro Length* 174-223 cm Tube diameter* 29.5 mm Available sizes** 8.1" x 17 Sizes** 8.1'' x 17'' Weight* 901 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.sport-vibrations.com
Despite the rather flexing paddle blade with the high-quality carbon shaft, the Mistral is quite stiff. The forces on the blade are distributed better under water than during the bending test on land. The fastener clamps the matt vario tube very securely, the plastic handle knob - but with a carbon look and structure - grips quite well, but didn't really impress the testers and doesn't quite match the otherwise high-quality feel. With the light plastic blade, Mistral gives the paddle good handling, the paddle swings forwards again with very little effort, the thin blade also needs to be inserted cleanly for a perfect catch.
Conclusion: Very well-balanced all-round paddle without any weaknesses. Quite stiff for a favourable price.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
NAISH PERFORMANCE 85
Price 189 Euro Length* 171-221 cm Tube diameter* 26.4 mm Available sizes** 85 inch Sizes** 85 Inch² Weight* 630 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* S-M Web www.naishsurfing.com
The Naish is not only the thinnest, most filigree and perhaps the most playful paddle in the test - but also the softest. The grip - including the small, wrinkled handle covered with soft grip - flattered every hand size in the test field. The double-screwed, well-holding clamp and the securely guiding Vario system with "Anti Twist" also seem well thought out. As the basic length of the paddle is comparatively short, larger paddlers have to pull out far, which does not increase the stiffness. And this is the point at which tastes are divided: The Naish paddle has a lot of flex, about twice as much as the stiffest paddle, around 40 per cent more than the midfield.
Conclusion: Sophisticated paddle with great details, handy - and very soft.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
NOVENOVE BASIC GLASS
Price 179 Euro Length* 165-209 cm Tube diameter* 29.2 mm Available sizes** 8.1'' Weight* 78 grams Sizes** 8.1'' Weight* 788 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* L Web www.liquid-sports.de
The NoveNove only looks the same as last year's model. The larger shaft diameter adds a little more weight, but also noticeably more rigidity, transforming the paddle from a superflex to an ergonomic all-rounder, as the large handle, which is very comfortable to grip for large hands, has remained. Another completely new and unique feature is the Vario system. The clever design of the clamp means that the shaft does not have to be slotted; the clamping function is performed solely by the upper part of the fastener. The matt-finished shaft retains a good grip even when wet, the paddle swings with good balance and the blade doesn't feel too heavy.
Conclusion: Versatile paddle with a non-slip shaft and very large grip.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
QUATRO SUP SPLIT BLADE M
Price 159 Euro Length* 169-219 cm Tube diameter* 29 mm Available sizes** M/81.4 in. Sizes** M/81.4 inch2 Weight* 743 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.tpesport.de
With good stiffness and a very rich catch, the Quatro was convincing throughout. The blade - strongly pre-curved, very thin in terms of blade thickness, but with a distinctive stiffening rib on the back - is reminiscent of canoe paddles. On the SUP board, it also offers a clean catch when piercing and, above all, very light swing weight. The paddle's centre of gravity is high up and the blade appears particularly light when swinging forward. The smooth high-gloss finish looks nice, but offers slightly less grip than matt surfaces when wet. On the other hand, the grip is very comfortable to hold. The clamp is well rounded and the labelling makes sense as an overall length.
Conclusion: A paddle that swings particularly easily in this weight class.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
RED PADDLE CARBON NYLON
Price 199,90 Euro Length* 180-221 cm Tube diameter* 28 mm Available sizes** n/a Sizes** n.a. Weight* 862 grams LeverLock adjustment system Grip size* S-M Web www.redpaddleco.com/de
The Red Paddle is only available in three parts, the diameter is slightly reduced. However, this hardly affects the stiffness of the Carbon Nylon model, which is why we chose it. There is a cheaper and a more expensive version in the price range of this test. We found the "Carbon Nylon" to be particularly well-balanced and reasonably stiff, the robust plastic blade with reinforced edge only shows a little more flex at the tip. The unusual Vario system is operated using a lever in the handle. A steel cable and squeeze rubber in the handle tube (thermos flask principle) hold very well and seal the paddle. However, this gives the handle a somewhat angular appearance.
Conclusion: Robust river and travel paddle in a thin diameter - but with good stiffness.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
RRD FLOW PADDLE GLASS
Price 199 Euro Length* 176-240 cm Tube diameter* 29.5 mm Available sizes** 92 inch Sizes** 92 Inch² Weight* 767 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.robertoriccidesigns.com
The Flow is light and well-balanced in the hand, with a very light-looking paddle blade. It swings noticeably lighter than a Sigma or Mistral, definitely in the same league as Fanatic and Indiana. The whole thing is paired with sufficient stiffness, at least as long as you don't make full use of the enormous length of up to 2.40 metres. The paddle not only shines with its elaborate design (orange blade back), but also with its good paddling characteristics. It was one of the very popular paddles. The markings for aligning the handle are well-intentioned, but do not lead to the desired result; there is no length graduation at all. The high-gloss finish is not quite as non-slip as matt surfaces in wet, sweaty hands.
Conclusion: A successful mix of stiffness and low perceived weight.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
SIGMA A2
Price 159 Euro Length* 172-212 cm Tube diameter* 28.9 mm Available sizes** 7.25''/95 Inch2 Weight Sizes** 7.25''/95 Inch2 Weight* 840 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.i-sup.de
The Sigma has been shortened by eight centimetres - for very tall paddlers, the range now includes the A3 Big up to 2.50 metres in length. The A2 has also been slightly reduced in blade size, making it 40 grams lighter than last year. It also continues to offer the elegant full carbon shaft with a matt, non-slip look and finish. It is quite stiff, but with the stiff, robust blade it also has a comparatively high swing weight - at high paddling speeds it is not as lively as some paddles of the same weight in the test. Unfortunately, the clamp on our test paddle could not be secured without slipping, even when the screws were adjusted as tightly as possible.
Conclusion: Robust and easy to paddle. A stiff paddle with good pressure for stronger types.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
STARBOARD ENDUEO TIKI TECH L
Price 209 Euro Length* 159-220 cm Tube diameter* 29.5 mm Available sizes** XS/S/M/L 89.1 in. Sizes** XS/S/M/L 89.1 Inch² Weight* 771 grams Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.star-board-sup.com
The Starboard looks particularly well thought-out and sophisticated. The hand-flattering handle is also made of carbon fibre. The Vario system with guide groove can be adjusted at lightning speed at any time. Matching imprints, solidly holding clamp - everything is there. Further down the shaft: good, stiff "Hybrid Carbon" with a grippy finish. Down to the blade: The "Tiki Tech" material looks very robust, is definitely light and also very stiff thanks to the 3D-like, slightly thicker blade geometry. All in all, it makes for a handy, light, stiff and easy-to-handle paddle. Only the base tube is short - worse for very tall paddlers and the lock is closer to the grip area of the lower hand.
Conclusion: Very sophisticated paddle with a very good weight/stiffness ratio; top features.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
SUP-MONSTERS X-CROSS
Price 199,00 Euro Length* 172-232 cm Tube diameter* 29,5 mm Available sizes** 82.1 Inch² Weight* 750 grams Sizes** 82.1 inch² Weight* 750 gram Adjustment system Clamp Grip size* M Web www.sup-monsters.com
The "Monsters" paddle is quickly characterised: Except for the slightly smaller length range, which is still more than ample - and thus a corresponding small weight advantage - it corresponds completely to the paddle from RRD. Very light in the pre-swing, with clean, uncomplicated penetration and the same high-gloss surface - which provides slightly less grip than matt tubes when wet. It is not one of the exceptionally stiff paddles, but it sits very well in the hand, the handle fits in the largest paw and also in the smallest paw.
Conclusion: A successful mix of stiffness and weight.
*=Measurement SUP magazine | **=Sizes: Width in inches/area in inches² | n.a. = no manufacturer's specification
