RoguePaddler

[lc]

Hello,

I've been thinking about getting a wing paddle but haven't been able to find a lot of useful information online and I don't live near anyone that uses a wing.

From what I've read online the teardrop shaped paddles, such as the epic paddles, are less (not at all?) predictable in rough conditions. I spend most of my time on the ocean and don't want to have to switch paddles every time there is a little turbulence.

What makes a wing predictable/unpredictable on rough waters?

Thanks.

P.S. Everyone seems to agree that the Lettmann Nordic is the way to go, but I can't seem to find any online stores that are local to the US that sell them. If I end up going with the Lettmann will I have to pay the additional shipping costs to get it to the US from Germany or does someone know of an online store?

[jhansen1951]

I see that your post is a couple of months old and you may well have found your answer elsewhere but I'll give you mine. The wing design was created by and for flatwater racers. Its wing-shaped profile creates lift just as an airplane wing does and increases the forward thrust of the paddle stroke. It is great for its intended purpose, going fast and straight, and requires the paddler to learn a different paddling style.

The same hydrofoil shape that makes the wing a great racing paddle also makes it difficult to use for things like bracing or rolling. I've heard several paddlers who have tried one for the first time call it "unpredictable". The blade wants to head off in unintended directions. More than one eskimo roll has failed because the blade planed off and failed to thrust the kayak upright. A sculling brace can be difficult because the blade provides plenty of lift when pulled to the rear but provides much less when returned forward through the water.

I hope this answers your question. The wing paddle is great for racing in flat water but not a good idea in rough conditions where braces, etc are needed.

John