1. Super Sup Carbon Fiber
Great Overall Paddle
The California made Super Sup Carbon Fiber paddle is the lightest paddle on this list. That said, the paddle provides a rigid structure for maximum propulsion in the water. This paddle has been constructed with a nylon blade and stainless steel screws to reduce rusting, making it built to last.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Insulated lining to keep paddle cool
- ✓ Ergonomic handle
- ✓ Anti-twist channel system
- ✓ Great for touring and racing
Things we don't like
- ✗ The center of balance is closer to the paddle end, making it feel heavier than it is
2. Abahub Carbon Fiber
Blade Design for Beginners
Abahub are a reputable brand and have been producing paddles for over 10 years. The Abahub 3 piece adjustable carbon fiber SUP paddle is ergonomically designed to be sturdy, yet flexible enough to withstand powerful strokes. This paddle is lightweight and durable and provides the reliability you need when paddle boarding in any environment. The blade has a double concave shape with a shaft to blade offset of 10 degrees.
Things we like
- ✓ Strong and durable
- ✓ Concave blade design ensures propulsion
- ✓ Travel friendly
- ✓ Intuitive design
- ✓ Affordable
Things we don't like
- ✗ Upper joint is too close to the handle
3. Thurso Surf Carbon Fiber
Excellent Power
The Thurso Surf 3 piece carbon fiber paddle is easy to assemble and features a 10 degree offset dihedral shape, creating the perfect tool to get the most power from your strokes. This paddle is designed in a way which prevents the blade from twisting. The blade is further strengthened by a rib that allows for further propulsion depending on the strokes used.
Things we like
- ✓ Strong
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Flexible blade
4. OceanBroad 3 Pieces Carbon Shaft
Great Mid-range Paddle
Composed of fiberglass and nylon this OceanBroad Fiberglass paddle is a dynamic and versatile tool to complement your paddle board. It can be adjusted to suit touring or surfing. Nevertheless, at just under a kilogram,this paddle is not the most lightweight paddle on the market. Although it isn’t great for endurance, it does mean that this paddle has more propulsion due to its rigid blade design.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Sturdy
- ✓ Lightweight
- ✓ Good quality
- ✓ Affordable
5. WooWave Carbon Fiber
WooWave makes all three types of paddle (aluminum alloy, fiberglass and carbon fiber), although their best paddle is the carbon fiber paddle. This is because it provides the durability necessary to weather the beating from waves and knocks. The blade is heavier than most, but that ensures more surface area for propulsion. This paddle is also travel friendly and breaks down into 3 pieces that can be packed into luggage.
Things we like
- ✓ Strong fiberglass shaft
- ✓ Easy to carry and store
- ✓ Comes in other models (different material)
- ✓ Affordable
Things we don't like
- ✗ Some paddlers complain the lock mechanisms seem unreliabe
6. Kialoa Uhane 91 Fiberglass
The Kialoa Uhane 91 is a perfect balance of durable and lightweight fiberglass. The ergonomic grip, solid shaft and flexible blade provide quick pace and handling while minimising energy consumption. The blade features a 10 degree offset and a relatively large surface area for ensuring a strong boost in strokes.
Things we like
- ✓ Light, durable, adjustable and affordable
- ✓ Impact resistant compression molded fiberglass blade
- ✓ Durable Rubber Coated ABS
- ✓ Durable fiberglass shaft
- ✓ PowerARC blade profile
Things we don't like
- ✗ Not very travel friendly
7. Goplus Aluminum Alloy
This paddle from Goplus, is made from an aircraft grade aluminum alloy that makes it durable and robust. The paddle comes with an ergonomically designed T-shape grip for comfort and stability as well as a pinball clip spring that reduces wear on the connection between the 3 pieces. Another design can be seen on the rigid rib that reinforces the blade, reducing the blade’s tendency to flutter against the current.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Durable and Sturdy
- ✓ Reduced wear and tear
- ✓ Very stable
8. Super Sup Aluminum Alloy
Another model from Super Sup, the aluminum alloy paddle is heavier yet more durable than the carbon fiber paddle. This blade is not only less expensive but will take more punishment than most other models and is a superb tool for getting the most out of each stroke out on the water. The anti-twist channel system fortifies the paddle’s handle and shaft connection making the paddle very solid and reliable in the water.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Insulated lining to keep paddle cool
- ✓ Ergonomic handle
- ✓ Anti-twist channel system
- ✓ Lightweight for aluminum alloy
9. SUP Supply Aluminum Alloy
The SUP Supply brand offers a budget aluminum alloy paddle option for beginners or paddle schools who want to try SUP before investing in a unique paddle. It is both durable and relatively lightweight, created with the beginner to intermediate skill level in mind. Travel friendly, easy to assemble and intuitive, this paddle offers a balance between strength and speed.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Travel friendly
- ✓ Easy to assemble
Things we don't like
- ✗ Basic design
- ✗ Too heavy for maintaining consistent high speed
10. Newport Vessels Fiberglass
Great Beginner Paddle
The Newport Vessels Fiberglass Paddle is a cutting edge paddle for any level of paddle boarder` but specifically great for beginners. Although quite heavier than most other paddles on the market, this paddle will fit with just about any height as it has a huge range of length. This paddle offers a great paddling experience for touring as it is durable, sturdy and made of high quality materials.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Comfortable handle
- ✓ Great range for different heights (family friendly)
- ✓ Affordable
Things we don't like
- ✗ Lack of customization
- ✗ Heavy
11. Crazy Abalone Carbon Fiber
Great Handling
Crazy Abalone’s Carbon Fiber paddle is not only super lightweight but features elegant designs on one side of the paddle. This 3 piece adjustable shaft is made of carbon fiber ensuring strong, yet flexible handling. The blade has a dihedral power face that increases the stability of the stroke while preventing blade flutter.
Things we like
- ✓ Lightweight
- ✓ Well designed
- ✓ Nice artwork and patterns
- ✓ Easy to use and functional
Things we don't like
- ✗ Some users prefer a palm grip, however it only comes with a t-bone grip
12. Isle Carbon Hybrid
Great Durability
The Isle carbon hybrid adjustable paddle is a super durable and lightweight tool made for reaching top speeds. This paddle allows for less energy consumption as compared to regular paddles as the intuitive design makes it easier to maneuver. Additionally, the blade of this paddle has a large surface area in order to push more water. On this board this translates to picking up more speed.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Lightweight
- ✓ Great price
- ✓ Easy to put together
- ✓ Sturdy
Things we don't like
- ✗ Needs to be clipped correctly when assembled otherwise loses integrity
13. Werner Session Fiberglass
Best Overall
The Werner brand makes some of the best paddles for kayaking and paddle boarding on the market. The Werner Session is a premium performance paddle designed for intense performance. It features an ABS palm grip and a 7 degree blade offset allowing for maximum propulsion. Additionally, the blade is made out of impact and abrasion resistant fiberglass, which is tough and durable.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Stiff blade
- ✓ Solid build
14. Aqua-Bound Malta Fiberglass
Most Lightweight
The Aqua-Bound Malta is one of the lightest paddles on the market. Composed of a translucent compression molded fiberglass the Malta guarantees you quick movements while reducing energy consumption. The shaft and hand grip is made of lightweight carbon fiber, increasing flexibility in the water and further reducing the weight.
Things we like
- ✓ Floats
- ✓ Colourful design options
- ✓ Super lightweight
- ✓ Carbon fiber handle and shaft
Things we don't like
- ✗ Not travel friendly as only 1 piece that doesn’t break down
- ✗ Ability to handle knocks and scrapes