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The 5 best carbon paddles?

by Vinzent

carbon paddle
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Anyone holding a carbon paddle for the first time will be impressed by the lightweight design. Whether on the SUP board or in the case of a carbon (double) paddle for the kayak – the difference to other materials is particularly noticeable on longer tours.

The right choice:

As carbon is not particularly cheap, the paddle with the lowest price is not necessarily the best choice. Interested parties should at best inform themselves thoroughly. We have put together some of the best carbon paddles in our recommendations and our Checklist shows at a glance what is important when buying.

Contents:

  1. Top picks: The best carbon paddles 2024 reviewed.
  2. Checklist: These features are important.
  3. Bestseller: The most popular carbon paddles.
  4. FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about carbon paddles.

The best carbon paddles 2024 reviewed.

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

We present the best and most popular carbon paddles from Amazon at 2024. These are divided into practical categories so that everyone can find what they are looking for quickly.

1. best adjustable carbon vario paddle

Extendable
NEMAXX Professional Carbon Speed Paddle 3-piece*

    This carbon paddle from NEMAXX is very robust, durable and resistant. In addition, the blade is made of polyamide and is optimally shaped. A blade bag is also included in the delivery. The paddle is an extendable telescopic paddle with Anti-Twist Comfort System and very light.

    What we like:

    • High quality
    • Sits well in the hand
    • Practical quick-release fasteners
    What we don’t like:

    • Not completely made of carbon

    Why we like it: The paddle impresses with its stylish design and pleasantly shaped handle. The telescopic paddle is also adjustable in length and a bag for the paddle blade is included.

    Recommended for: Thanks to the quick-release fasteners, the length can be easily adjusted within a few seconds. It also offers a lot of stability and plenty of speed on the water.

    2. best carbon paddle for the SUP

    For SUPs
    Abahub 4-piece carbon paddle SUP*

      This 4-piece paddle is shock and erosion resistant. It is multifunctional and suitable for both kayaking and SUPs. The anti-twist clamping system and the safety pin prevent the paddle from coming loose.

      What we like:

      • Pleasantly light
      • Adjustable
      • Nice and handy
      What we don’t like:

      • Clamp closure is a little difficult

      Why we like it: Like most carbon paddles, this model also scores with its very low weight. With the help of the locking system, it can be adjusted without effort and brought to the desired length.

      Recommended for: Especially for passionate SUP riders, this paddle is a must-have. It is easily adjustable, making it suitable for taller and shorter people. The carbon also makes it super light and stable. The small pack size is also great for SUP riding on the next lake.

      3. best carbon paddles for the price-conscious

      Good price-performance ratio
      Carbon paddle Kesser*

        The Kesser paddle is made of high-quality materials and has an ergonomic T-handle with anti-slip grip. The adjustable shaft can be set between 165 - 210 cm.

        What we like:

        • Pretty design
        • Light
        • Comfortable grip
        What we don’t like:

        • Clamp for adjusting the length a little slippery

        Why we like it: The paddle has a good grip and makes a high-quality impression. It offers good handling and comes with a practical bag. It consists of 3 parts and can be assembled easily and securely.

        Recommended for: Anyone who wants to start SUP or kayaking and is looking for a lightweight paddle will find what they are looking for here. It can be easily adapted to the respective needs. As it is in 3 parts and can be dismantled, it is also easy to take with you on the go.

        4. best carbon paddle for kayakers – double paddle

        Anti-twist system
        Brunelli Carbon HYBRID Kayak Dual Tech Paddle*

          The paddle can easily be converted from a SUP paddle to a kayak paddle. It is balanced and always at the perfect angle to the blade thanks to the anti-twist system. At approx. 850 grams, the paddle is very light.

          What we like:

          • Light
          • Energy-saving
          • Not twistable
          What we don’t like:

          • Bonding not durable enough

          Why we like it: This paddle has a ONE-PIN closure that allows you to quickly adjust the length. The paddle can be adjusted from 180 cm to 220 cm in length. The anti-twist system of the carbon paddle is also impressive. This means that the shaft and handle are always at the right angle to the blade.

          Recommended for: The Brunelli Carbon HYBRID is particularly suitable for longer tours and shallow waters. It is pleasantly light and sits comfortably in the hand. It can be used for both SUP and kayaking.

          5. best carbon paddle with wood accent

          Energy-saving
          Brunelli Carbon Bamboo*

            This lightweight paddle can be converted into a double paddle. It also has an anti-twist system and is in 4 parts. It is suitable for high speeds and longer tours. The carbon shaft offers great power transmission and flexibility.

            What we like:

            • Ergonomic
            • Bamboo leaf
            • Energy-saving
            What we don’t like:

            • Slightly more expensive

            Why we like it: This model is a beautiful carbon paddle with a bamboo blade. The shaft transmits a lot of power and enables effortless paddling. The handle is ergonomically shaped and is always at the perfect angle to the blade thanks to the anti-twist system.

            Recommended for: The paddle is particularly suitable for higher speeds and longer tours on the water. The bamboo blade stands out particularly stylishly and makes the paddle a real eye-catcher.

            Carbon paddle Checklist: These features are important

            • What size? Although the paddle is light, it still needs to be bought in the right size. So an adjustable shaft really makes sense here. Among other factors, your own height, technique and arm length play a role in the choice of paddle. In general, however, these rules of thumb are helpful:
              • When riding a SUP, the paddle should be around 20 to 25 cm longer than your own height.
              • When kayaking, your own height should be determined minus 30 cm and the result doubled.
            • What price? The cost of a carbon paddle can vary considerably. The price is usually between 150 and 800 $. This is due to the material and an expensive paddle should therefore be treated with care. For occasional or beginner paddlers, a paddle at the lower end of the price segment is sufficient.
            • Who is it suitable for? Carbon paddles are nice and light and very durable. Most of them also have an ergonomically shaped handle. Therefore, they are well suited for people with joint problems. Carbon paddles are also practical on long-distance tours, as the arms do not tire as quickly as heavier models made of other materials.

            Also interesting: The most popular all round paddle boards 2024.

            Bestsellers: The most popular carbon paddles

            What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

            (**Last update 2024-12-09)

            FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers

            Are carbon paddles worth the money?

            Yes, because the low weight not only protects the joints, but also makes paddling much more effective and less tiring. Paddlers who have switched to carbon once hardly want to switch back to other materials (e.g. aluminum).

            How heavy are carbon paddles?

            n average, a carbon paddle weighs only about 600 grams. However, this varies depending on paddle length, shaft width, blade size and handle material. Only fiberglass paddles come close to this low weight and even these are still a few grams heavier.

            Which is the best carbon paddle?

            There is no universal answer to this question. Anyone looking for a carbon paddle for recreational use will choose a different product than a professional. In general, however, the products of the brands Fanatic, Twit, JP, Nortik and Skinfox can be recommended.

            What alternatives are there to carbon SUP paddles?

            There are models that combine nylon, fiberglass (also called fiber paddles) or aluminum. These may be heavier, but they are cheaper. In general, however, you should always choose a stand-up paddle model for a SUP.

            For whom is a carbon SUP paddle worthwhile?

            While the right length must be chosen regardless of the material, beginners in particular can benefit from lightweight carbon paddles. They require significantly less effort. But touring paddlers also benefit from the lightweights. The only disadvantage is that they are not so easy to repair or glue.

            Best carbon paddle for SUPs?

            As the paddling is done in a standing position, the paddle must be correspondingly long. A paddle that can be dismantled into 2 or 3 parts is then worthwhile for easier transportation.

            You can even find them on offer at Lidl or Aldi from time to time. Ultimately, a personal test and your own experience with the paddle on the board is the most meaningful.

            Best carbon paddle for kayaks?

            Only an individual decision can be made here. There are paddles with extra accessories, which is more worthwhile for some paddlers (e.g. a set of SUP and paddle). Others, however, are looking for a simple kayak paddle with a lightweight carbon paddle blade, without all the bells and whistles. You can find more information in our double paddle for kayak comparison.

            Is there a test winner for carbon paddles from Consumer Reports or Öko Test?

            So far there is no carbon paddle test winner from Consumer Reports or Öko Test. Instead, however, our bestseller list with some customer favorites can help you make a decision.

            Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

            *Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

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            Vinzent

            Expert for paddle and SUP adventures
            Charlie doesn't surf, but Vinzent does. The books are thrown away and pens are swapped for board shorts. whenever his studies allow it. Otherwise, he likes to spend his time in nature, preferably by the water or in the mountains.

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