RE/
>Being an old fart, I found that the 7'+ big bladed
>paddle I used in Hawaii was getting to be too much, so
>I built a wood paddle with smaller blades that is just
>over 6' long.
>
>The difference is amazing, its like having a lower
>gear - I can get more and stronger strokes in and
>accellerate much faster. It makes catching waves a
>whole lot easier, more fun and less exhausting.
>Aloha, Hunt Johnsen

That parallels my own experience. Started by taking a hack saw
to my Werner Camano adjustable... then bought a wing paddle that
people said was too short... then bought a Werner white water
paddle in a 191 - with the Werner sales guy sort of rolling his
eyes.... But every time the shaft got shorter, it felt better.
But five feet???? Guess I've got to talk somebody into lending
me one for a few hours.
--
PeteCresswell