Once only found in the domain of the marathon racer, these efficient paddles have gained popularity in recent years with recreational paddlers. We didn't invent this stuff, our hats off to the racers who did. Long hours on the water make every technical advantage a windfall, and we know a good idea when we see one. Our goal has always been to put good ideas into production. In addition to all of the features found in our recreational line, the wooden paddles have a continuous, 8-ply bass wood, form-molded bent shaft.
A. SPRITE 14°
Bass and butternut construction with a scroll grip and urethane plastic tip. An industry standard for 25 years. Excellent as a lightweight training or entry-level paddle.
B. TOURING 12°
Ash, bass, butternut, and walnut construction; thicker, more contoured walnut and butternut scroll grip and extended urethane plastic edging. The 12° angle allows full advantage of the bent shaft principle, while offering a slightly more upright and relaxed paddling position. Our toughest bent shaft for wilderness and heavy-duty applications.
C. RAVEN 12°
Carbon fibre foam core construction with knife edge blade for a clean catch and exit. Comfy, fatigue fighting grip. A durable lightweight composite 12° bent shaft paddle suitable for marathon or outrigger canoeing.
These are excellent shallow or deep water paddles that offer increased efficiency through paddle design and paddling technique. The blade of the paddle is offset from the shaft to allow the blade to remain vertical to the canoe's path throughout the stroke. This improves the efficiency of each stroke and allows shorter strokes at an increased stroke rate. These factors coupled with a 'sit & switch' technique (i.e. changing sides every twelve strokes or so to reduce fatigue and steering correction) make Grey Owl Bent Shafts hard to beat for long distance paddling.
