We all recognise that there is no substitute to using a quality paddle. It's usually lighter, durable and has been designed in order to improve performance, but can be also be very expensive!

I have noticed however, that many paddlers still insist on abusing their paddles by sitting and leaning on them (for support) when launching or exiting the kayak. This causes stress fractures in carbon fibre shafts (especially if the shaft has a joint) and can weaken the joint where the blade joins on to the shaft. So don't do it. Paddle failure can be very serious and is very expensive.

If you need more advice on launching click on the link below, which will show you how to do it without damaging your paddle.

Chris Jones

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