Bent Shaft Kayak Paddles??????

prevention

– Last Updated: Mar-05-05 2:34 AM EST –

Has anyone considered a bent shaft being better for all kayakers as a way to prevent wrist or joint problems down the road. I hear everyone saying they switched over when the problem occured, how about a bent shaft as prevention? Even for kids? Bent shafts just look healthier.

could potentially be a crutch
If the beginner eventually has to use a straight shaft, they may find that they have relied upon the bent shaft too much and have gotten lazy with their form. I believe that technique is the cause of most wrist and joint pains and that we should concentrate and fixing the cause rather than adapting to the problem.