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Review of the Red Paddle Co Alloy Adjustable 70-86″ 3 Piece Paddle
The 2016 alloy shaft and nylon blade 3 piece SUP travel paddle by Red Paddle Co is an update of the highly popular 2015 model. Designed as an entry level paddle for those just starting out and want a simple paddle option before deciding on what they want to upgrade to, or a spare paddle available for friends and family to use.
The package: The 2016 alloy and nylon 3 piece travel paddle breaks down into pieces no longer than 35″ which easily fit into your inflatable SUP bag. If you leave the adjustable handle shaft section in the main shaft, you have fewer pieces to carry around but the overall length of these 2 combined sections goes out to about 39″. The extremely durable nylon blade measures 7 1/2″ across and 13″ to the shoulder, a good, comfortable medium sized blade for most paddlers.
The alloy shaft has a slight oval shape for paddle orientation and grip comfort. It also has a 2/3 length EVA grip which makes it super comfortable to hold when wet. This is a super tough paddle at the right price, and an ideal option for first time paddlers wanting to be on the water and enjoying paddle boarding.
We always suggest getting the nicest paddle you can afford. A quality paddle makes all the difference in your paddling experience. Imagine walking 50 miles in flip flops compared to 50 miles in a nice pair of comfy hiking trail boots. However, starting out with this paddle gets you on the water and at a very good price. It’s better to be out there having fun and have the option to upgrade down the line when you know what you want.
The paddle features a push-pin system to join the main shaft to the blade section. There is some wobble in this join but not something that would deter you from paddling. The secondary clamp featured on higher level paddles like the glass & nylon or the carbon & nylon, ensures there is no wobble or flex in the joint. The adjustable handle slides into the main shaft and is locked into place by a 2 pin clamp system. It offers adjustments about every inch from 70-86″ in overall paddle length. This pin clamp adjustment system is a little more bulky than the clamp you find on other higher level paddles but the pins on this system help to orient the paddle handle with the blade so there is never any twist. It makes adjusting the paddle on the fly, or on the beach, that much easier. It also allows you to pick a length and know exactly where to adjust the shaft to for optimum use each time. See the video on adjusting your SUP paddle.
On the water: The alloy and nylon paddle is a solid and reliable shaft and blade combo. The EVA grip on the main shaft is super comfortable, the handle as well. Adjustment is a breeze with the 2 pin clamp. The blade also features a small strip of rubber along the edge which makes it very soft against the rail of the board and protects the blade from damage against other obstacles. The paddle is on the heavier side and it does require a bit more effort per stroke so if you want to do more than just short near shore cruising, optioning up to either the glass/nylon or carbon/nylon would be a wise choice. But, if you are just starting out and want to get on the water with a good quality paddle that won’t corrode, rust or fall apart like many under-$99-alloy-paddles do these days, you’re onto a winner with this one.
Features:
- 3 piece paddle
- Usage: All round
- Blade: Nylon
- Shaft: Alloy
- Adjustable range: 180 – 220 cm (70 – 86 inches)
- Weight: 38 oz or 1080 grams
- Fits in Red Paddle Co travel bag
Likes:
- Excellent value for a good quality starter paddle
- Super comfortable shaft grip
- Durable nylon blade
- Pin adjust handle which orients handle to blade
- Comfortable and grippy handle
Dislikes:
- A bit heavy for longer paddle sessions
- Some play in the lower shaft join
- Adjustment clamp is a bit clunky but does make adjusting the shaft super easy
The alloy shaft and nylon blade 3 piece paddle by Red Paddle Co is a great entry level paddle for those who just want to get out on the water at a good price and see what this paddle boarding business is all about. Then have the option to upgrade once hooked and save the alloy paddle for family or new recruits that join you during your sessions! This paddle currently comes as standard with the Red Paddle Co all round boards like the 9’8” and 10’6” Rides.
About the author: Julian Kidd