Unfortunately, the otherwise very popular paddles from "Red Paddle" were not available. But even so, there should be a suitable paddle for everyone in the very mixed sextet. What did we particularly like during the test sessions?
The paddles in detail:
Fanatic (pre-series) The bamboo veneered blade is of course the eye-catcher of the Fanatic paddle. The blade is comparatively strongly curved and dives in so smoothly and softly that you immediately like to pull it through without any familiarisation. When pulling through, it is stable in the hand and follows the pulling hand without fidgeting. In terms of "swing weight", the perceived swing weight, it is not quite in the same league as the Starboard carbon paddle, but is still nicely balanced and light in the hand. The shaft is also nice and stiff, with minimal damping, which together with the soft-gripping blade provides a lot of comfort. Conclusion: A paddle with good stiffness and a comfortable weight for immediate use.
Our test sample was a pre-production model that was still missing the clamp on the lower plug connection. Only a push button worked here.
Length (from to): 1.65 - 2.11 metres Transport length: 0.95 metres Weight: 0.76 kilos Price: K.A. (pre-series)
Mistral FC This is probably the most solid option for strong guys. The Mistral looks strong and stiff, the plug-in connections are free of play. The blade has a solid grip and glides cleanly and accurately through the water. A clever feature of the Vario construction is that the handle section fits exactly into the bottom section, making it possible to create a two-piece canoe paddle. It can also be used as a children's paddle to try out for the first time - even if the blade is of course a little too big for kids in the long run. Conclusion: A high-quality paddle supplied in a classy bag that impresses with its particular stiffness. In terms of subjective weight, it can easily keep up with the Fanatic paddle and the Starboard Enduro L. Length (from to): 1.72 - 2.27 metres Transport length: 0.95 metres Weight: 0.82 kilos Price: 399 euros
Mistral LA The Mistral "LA" is in a different price category to the other paddles here - this is of course reflected in the equipment (blade made of robust but also heavy plastic). The "swing weight" is noticeably heavier, but this paddle is still suitable for touring. In direct comparison to the carbon paddle from Mistral, the significantly lower pressure build-up of the blade is particularly noticeable. With the same size, it requires less effort - but does not offer quite the same propulsion. Conclusion:An inexpensive paddle for perhaps less committed sports enthusiasts, or for use on the river, where it can score points with its robust blade. Length (from to): 1.77 - 2.30 metres Transport length: 0.90 metres Weight: 0.96 kilos Price: 165 euros
Naish Makani Three-piece, thin and with a patented adjustment system - the Naish paddle looks extremely slim and fits particularly well in smaller hands thanks to the extra-thin tube diameter. The smaller shaft cross-section gives the paddle significantly more flex than all others. It flexes significantly when pulled hard. For very strong paddlers, this might seem a little soft, but even our small test team with racing experience quickly got used to the very dynamic feel of the paddle. It also feels less jerky and probably easier on the joints than the stiffer paddles. The blade grips firmly and moves very stably through the water. What's particularly great is how quickly you can adjust the length of the paddle, as the patented guide prevents it from twisting. The blade and handle always remain perfectly parallel. Conclusion:Almost filigree-looking, dynamic paddle, very handy for smaller people. Less suitable for strong paddlers who attach particular importance to maximum stiffness. Very thin tube diameter in comparison.
Length (from to): 2.20 metres Transport length: 0.93 metres Weight: 0.6 kilos Price: 249 euros
Starboard Enduro-Carbon and Enduro TIKI-Tech L We were able to try out two models from Starboard: The super-light premium carbon paddle and the more robust TIKI-Tech Enduro version. Even the cheaper paddle is still in a decent league in terms of weight. Both paddles impress with very good stiffness, the handling when paddling is extremely light, especially with the carbon, so that you hardly feel that you are using a multi-part paddle. The weight of the "Enduro" is similar to that of the Fanatic paddle, but the paddle blade of the Enduro moves a little more nervously through the water and requires at least a little time to get used to before you can guide it cleanly, but it is made of very robust material that can withstand contact with stones. The plug connections are well secured at the bottom with a push button and quick-release lever. The handle of the "Enduro" has a rough knobbed structure - this is a matter of taste, we liked the smooth handle of the carbon paddle better. Conclusion: If you want the best, and in three parts, you can go for the premium Enduro without hesitation. Stiffness and weight are very close to really good one-piece paddles. The Enduro has a particularly robust paddle blade and also weighs very little. A good compromise at a relatively favourable price.
Enduro carbonLength (from to): 1.51 - 2.04 metres Transport length: 0.96 metres Weight: 0.6 kilos Price: 449 euros
Enduro TIKI-TechLength (from to): 1.56 - 2.06 metres Transport length: 0.97 metres Weight: 0.74 kilos Price: 199 euros
