New Paddle Impressions

[Black_Fly]

Used the new Badgertail for a week in BWCA and loved it. Went paddling the other day and used my ZRE bent shaft Whitewater. I’m now in a good position to compare the two. The Badgertail is easy on the shoulders and much quieter than the ZRE WW. I can hear the sucking/slurping noise very distinctly with the WW. It is however lighter than the sassafras paddle, and easier to sit/switch for acceleration. The reservoir is down now, so the shorter blade on the ZRE WW is appreciated, despite the slurp. The Badgertail would be problematic in the backwater areas right now. Happy to have both paddles along with my rock bashing BB Explorer.

Still like the double blade for crossing big lakes and bays.

 

[Alan Gage]

The Badgertail is easy on the shoulders and much quieter than the ZRE WW. I can hear the sucking/slurping noise very distinctly with the WW.

I'm glad you're enjoying the new paddle. I'm surprised at the noise you say you get from your ZRE. Mine are absolutely quiet during the stroke. If get the speed and angle perfect it's also dead quiet when planting the blade for the catch. More often I don't get this part perfect and there is just a small "pop" when the blade enters the water. Definitely no sucking, slurping, or gurgling.

Alan