The Power of the Paddle

The paddle is the connection between your human power and the water.

The angle of which the paddle blade runs though the water with each stroke and the size of the blade largely dictates the power efficiency of each stroke and how much you can trust your blade. With a well balanced paddle blade moving straight through the water , little energy will be lost . The size of the blade can be compared to the gear of a bike, the higher the gear or the smaller the blade, the less effort each stroke takes. The lower the gear or the bigger the blade, the more energy will be used and the more forward motion will be activated. For long paddle session or for lighter people, a smaller blade is recommended.Introducing the Flex Measurement System FMSThe reflex momentum of the paddle shaft is crucial as a paddle with good

Introducing the Flex Measurement System FMS

The reflex momentum of the paddle shaft is crucial as a paddle with good flex and high rebound characteristics will provide ˛better speed and less muscle ache.˛Starboard has carefully selected carbon shafts with the optimal stiffness, deflection and extra high rebound numbers to maximize the power potential that each stroke presents, yet ensure the durability required for heavy loads when used in surf. The blades are foiled to move real straight through the water and are available in 6 sizes measured ˛in CM2 to meet your specific ˛power request.

Starboard 2011 'Book of Paddling'