Solo paddle choices
As for my specs I am 6’3" and 190. As stated earlier I am new to the boat and with my size 12’s cant get my feet under the sea easily but I hope to modify seat or thwart in some way.
I appreciate all the posts and as of now I like the looks of the BB, Foxworxs and the Grey Owls. The last paddle I purchased was a carbon bent kayak so these prices seem very fair for decent paddles.
Once you’ve tasted the wine
The only way a paddler will pay ~$500 for a paddle is to develop enough paddle sensitivity to justify the price. Once you’ve had creme brule’ it’s difficult to go back to a Snickers bar for dessert.
Towards which: You’ll never be pleased with any of the $50-100 entry to intermediate level sticks. Their blades are roughly shaped, the edges are coarse and will not slice smoothly, the camber is indistinct of missing entirely. Oh yeah, and the shafts and grips are way small too.
Bending Branches, Mitchell, Fox Works, Grey Owl, Werner, Whiskey Jack, Dog Paddle Design, Zaveral and others make plenty workable straight and bent sticks, all starting ~ $150. The bargain basement ones are best for starting fires in the rain; they will not help you improve as a paddler.
But then, you know this; you selected one of the very best kayak paddles available because it worked better.