But it's also important to know that I've been using their paddles for 25+ years — back when I was competing in whitewater kayaking and loooong before I ever got in front of a camera. So while it is easy for me to fawn over these paddles, it still remains my goal to give you a genuine sneak peak into a series that has received its first overhaul in quite some time. Let's break it all down so that you can know what to expect. 

An Overview of Aqua Bound's Ray Series

When Aqua Bound launched the Ray Series kayak paddles, they quickly made a splash because they combined three important attributes: affordability, durability, and performance.

Aqua Bound Ray Series Kayak Paddle Cost

When I say affordable, I don't mean that these paddles aren't a significant investment, but with a price range of between $130 to $250 (USD), this is relatively inexpensive when compared to the rest of the high-end paddle market.

A paddle in this price range, that also has a proven track record of durability and performance, is a perfect trifecta when looking for a great kayak paddle. 

Another reason Aqua Bound's Ray Series ranks high in my books is because it includes three different options for paddle composition:

• Fiberglass Kayak Paddles: 100% fiberglass shaft and fiberglass-reinforced nylon blades (least expensive)
• Carbon Kayak Paddles: 100% carbon shaft and carbon-reinforced nylon blades (most expensive)
• Hybrid Kayaking Paddles: 100% carbon shaft and a fiberglass-reinforced nylon blade. The hybrid paddle splits the difference in terms of price and performance benefits.

Manta Ray vs Sting Ray Paddle Blade Sizes

These models also have the option of two blade sizes to choose from. There is the Manta Ray, which is wider and therefore best for larger paddlers and/or more aggressive paddling; and then there is the Sting Ray, which is longer/narrower and better suited for smaller paddlers and/or a more relaxed paddling style.

The three main models and two blade shapes are the same offerings now as they were in previous generations. What has changed are some subtle performance upgrades to the blade designs (more on that in a minute), a slick new ferrule design, and it's hard to miss the two new snazzy color options: electric green and sunset (along with classic black). 

Ray Series Design Upgrades

1. New Ferrule Option

One of the things that excited me the most about the updated Ray series was the introduction of the new Versa-Lok ferrule. For quick reference (but keep reading for more info on ferrules in general), Aqua Bound has used, and continues to use, a basic snap-button system on their fiberglass paddles, and a Posi-Lok ferrule on some of the carbon and hybrid paddles (which allows for an infinite number of feather/twist options and locks in beautifully).

How to choose kayak paddle length

The joy of the new Versa-Lok, which also features in some hybrid and carbon models, is that it performs the same functions as the Posi-Lok, plus it allows for length adjustments of up to 15 centimeters! This means you don't have to worry about choosing the correct kayak paddle length as a new paddler. This telescoping ferrule is great for anyone who doesn't know exactly what length of paddle they want, for sharing a paddle with friends/family, and for switching between kayaks that have differing ideal length requirements. The Versa-Lok is a $20 upgrade, which I think is totally worth it for anyone in those 3 categories. 

2. Refined Blade Shapes

After paddling around with the upgraded Ray Series paddles for a couple of hours, I really didn't notice much of a difference from the previous blade designs. But since I loved these paddles before, that is in no way a bad thing. And considering that the prices stayed the same, any refinements, no matter how small, are still a bonus. For your own notes, here are the 4 changes that Aqua Bound made to the blades:

– A smoother, “flutter-free” forward stroke compared to previous generations

– Softened dihedral near the tip for a quieter entry and exit

– Reduced backside spine for greater technical stroke ability

– And improved strength (less likely to snap, crack or wear), without an increase in weight

Side Note Reminder About Ferrules:

What is the ferrule on a kayak paddle?

A ferrule is a fancy name for the connection point on a two-piece paddle. Nowadays, most paddles come with at least a two-piece construction because they're so much more convenient to transport. The most basic of the three common ferrules that you'll see is a snap-button system. The advantage here is a simple and cheap design.

The downsides are limited feather/twist options (more to come on this), they tend to get locked up with prolonged use (especially in saltwater), and there's always a bit of “give” or “play” that can be felt while paddling — not a lot, but enough to be a little annoying.

A locking ferrule works to eliminate that bit of movement at the joint. It also gives you a lot more freedom to customize the twist. The last ferrule type is a telescoping system. This one allows for adjustments in length, which is particularly helpful if you're someone who paddles different types of kayaks, or likes to share with fellow kayakers.

Why are kayak paddle blades angled? 

Some paddles can be set to a certain “twist” or “feather.” Both of these terms refer to the offset, or angle of the paddle blades relative to one another. This is done so that while one blade is in the water, the other slices through the air with the narrow side of the blade, rather than the full, flat fin. If you're battling the wind, or racing another boat and need to claw for those fractions of a second, then this can be an effective strategy.

However, if you're just getting started, I think it's best to leave your paddle at a zero-offset/angle/twist/feather. I actually use a zero-offset paddle myself. 30 years ago, when I was just starting out, I initially had a 90-degree twist. Eventually I backed it off to a 60, and then a 30, 15, and finally I ditched it altogether.  

Which Ray Series Paddle Is Right For You?

The fiberglass models (fiberglass shaft and fiberglass-reinforced nylon blades) are high-quality entry-level/budget-friendly choices. These are the heaviest and most flexible of the three categories, which means more cumulative fatigue and a less efficient stroke – but the plus side is they fall into that appealing $130 – $140 (USD) price range. 

If you are someone who enjoys longer paddling days and has the budget to step up to a more advanced design, then the hybrid models might be something for you to consider. In these paddles, the shaft is made of carbon, which makes them lighter and stiffer. They also come with either the Posi-Lok or the newly implemented Versa-Lok ferrules – both of which improve the feel of the shaft and allow for customization. 

And finally, the carbon models (made with carbon shafts and carbon-reinforced nylon blades) are the top-tier options for high-performance paddling. The carbon Ray paddles are the lightest and stiffest in the series, and of course come with both the Posi-Lok and Versa-Lok ferrule options. Even though these range in price from $225 – $245, that is still a fantastic price when considering that carbon paddles can retail for upwards of double that.

The beauty of the Ray Series paddles are that each price increment provides significant gains in terms of feel and performance. If you are a dedicated kayaker and have the budget to go for a full-carbon model, I highly recommend that you give it a shot. 

How to choose a kayak paddle

When selecting a kayak paddle, it's important to consider the materials used, the shape of the blades, the length, the ferrule systems, what kind of paddling you aim to do, and of course, how all of these things fit into your budget. For a detailed guide on the ins and outs of choosing a paddle, check out this PaddleTV video. 

Where are Aqua Bound paddles made?

Aqua Bound began operations in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, in 1991, and moved down to Osceola, Wisconsin in 2008, where their paddles continue to be manufactured. 

I hope you enjoyed my overview of the new Aqua Bound Ray Series. As I said in the beginning, I've been a fan of these paddles for a long time. I gave them two thumbs up before, and I give the latest versions two thumbs up as well! If you want to learn more about how to choose the right paddles, take in other gear reviews, or just watch me splash around in a lot of cool places, subscribe to our newsletter!

INFLATABLE AND FOLDING KAYAKS I RECOMMEND

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FOOTWEAR  

PADDLING SHIRTS / TOPS  

PFD’S – LIFE JACKETS

OTHER PADDLING GEAR  

SUNGLASSES

WileyX

The post Kayak Paddle Review: Aqua Bound Ray Series New Design appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Greenland Paddles

Greenland Paddles are a lesser-known style of paddle. I thought I would talk about Greenlands in general, as well as go into more detail on the Gearlab Outdoors IPIK itself. If you want to compare and contrast different options, flip over to my review of the Gearlab Kalleq after this. There is a lot to talk about (and debate) between these guys and the classic Euro blades. They are quite different, and therefore have their own person and condition-specific pros and cons. In the end, I hope this breakdown gets you excited to try something new. Let's get into it.

ABOUT THE GEARLAB OUTDOORS IPIK PADDLE

Price: $528 USD

Length: 219 CM

Loom Length: 57 CM

Blade Width: 8.8 CM

Weight: 595 G

How is the Gearlab Outdoors IPIK paddle made?

The Gearlab Outdoors IPIK Greenland paddle I am reviewing is made with a unique 3D carbon wrapping construction with continuous strands of aerograde carbon fiber. A metal-free carbon spring joins the two-piece paddle securely together. The IPIK also has Gearlab's first oval-shaped and shouldered loom. The IPIK Greenland paddle has replaceable tips on the blades, which are attached with rust-proof titanium screws. The blades themselves are 1.1 millimeters sharp. This thing is a samurai sword. 

What are the different types of paddles?

Two key classes of paddles are the Euro-style and the Greenland-style. The former is probably the first image that comes to mind when thinking about a kayak setup. The Euro paddle has a bigger, concave, and leafy blade that is designed to catch a lot of water and pull it through without fluttering. The Greenland paddle, on the other hand, has sleeker blades (but often a thicker shaft) and is designed to distribute the catch over a broader surface area. 

Getting Use To Greenland Paddles

I'll be honest, because of my professional experience, I thought I would be able to get the hang of a Greenland paddle pretty quickly. Not the case. Though I'm quite fond of the design, it has taken the better part of a year (off and on) to figure out the technique.

I would recommend to anyone interested in making the switch from a Euro blade that you practice consistently in order to build confidence in your new stroke. The basic idea is that the longer, slimmer blades catch the water across a bigger area. This reduces the impact on the paddler's body. The impact to you body is reduced. This is true especially over the long haul. Each stroke is more evenly distributed and therefore smoother. 

What are the advantages of a Greenland paddle?

Greenland paddles are extremely light. For example, the Gearlab Outdoors IPIK is only 595 grams, compared to the typical Euro range of about 680 grams all the way up to 1,800+ grams.

Less Defined Blades are Easier on the Body

Also, as previously mentioned, the less defined blades of Greenland paddles are easier on the body. I covered a lot of distance on Alabama's Lake Guntersville while testing out the IPIK, and I really did notice the difference at the end of the day (despite not being proficient at the Greenland-style stroke). And finally, because these paddles are sleeker and more buoyant, they make rolling an easier exercise. 

Greenland Paddles Quality

Greenland paddles are made by a variety of manufacturers. Each manufacturer will use their own approach to building a paddle, which brings different pros and cons. This style of paddle certainly will take some time getting used to, but if you put in the work, they can deliver some serious benefits. Since I tested Gearlab's IPIK, I'll  tell you more about my views on it.

Oval-shaped loom

For starters, the oval-shaped loom of the Gearlab Outdoors IPIK is a really nice touch. It gives you a great sense of the angle of the blades as you're paddling, without having to look at them. This is important because the angle of the blades as they strike the water is key for a proper Greenland paddle stroke. I also appreciated the new shouldered-loom, or step-up, where the shaft meets the base of the blade. The proprioception this offered, combined with the visible dots, really helped me keep a centered hand-position. This was something I struggled with when testing the Kalleq paddle last year. 

Weight of the paddle

Moving on, I can't seem to say enough about how ridiculously lightweight the IPIK paddle is. But it's not just light, it feels exceptional to hold and to paddle with (even though I'm not that good at it…yet!). 

Cost of the IPIK

At $528 (USD), the Gearlab Outdoors IPIK paddle is an investment. But one of the things that gives me confidence in recommending this kind of purchase is the removable blade tips. That's an essential design feature that will ensure a much longer lifespan. 

Who is the Gearlab Outdoors IPIK paddle for? 

The IPIK is the Mack Daddy of Greenland paddles. I would say that it is well-suited to touring-kayakers who are covering lots of ground. I also think that this model is appropriate for experienced paddlers who are curious to try something new.

Not a Beginners Paddle

This is not what I would consider a beginner's paddle, nor something for a first-time-user of a Greenland Paddle.

In both of those cases, I would recommend one of Gearlab's much more economical paddles. Once you get the feel for this style of stroke and decide that that's the road you want to go down, then you could upgrade to this higher-end option. This is in no-way a knock on the IPIK. I just want to make sure I consider, and you consider, the challenges of using this type of paddle, and recognize that this is a significant portion of most paddler's budgets. 

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The post Gearlab Outdoors IPIK Paddle Review: A Greenland Paddle appeared first on Hazeadventure.