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What are the differences between carbon and aluminium paddles?

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How to choose your equipment

Stand Up Paddle

16 February 2024

Bruno SROKA

Contents

Paddle or stand-up paddle (SUP ) is a discipline that has developed strongly over the last 10 years. The sport has its origins in Polynesian culture. Its versatility and ease of learning have made it a fast-growing sport all over the world.

Inflatable paddles have played a major role in its development, thanks to their practicality and ease of transport. What’s more, with the arrival of foils and their development on the market, this sport has greatly evolved in its various forms: SUP foil downwind foil…

Whether you’re a beginner looking to get into the sport or a more experienced paddler looking to improve your technique and performance, the choice of equipment, particularly the paddle, can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll help you get the right equipment for paddling and downwind foil. We’ll explore the paddle and its performance, looking at carbon and aluminum paddles to help you make the best choice.

Carbon paddle vs. aluminum paddle

When it comes to choosing a paddle, there are two most common options, the aluminum paddle or the carbon paddle. They come in 2 or 3 parts. It’s up to you to choose the best option for you.

1. The aluminum paddle

Aluminum paddles are the most common and inexpensive. It may be heavier, but you won’t be disappointed by its sturdiness. Perfectly suited to occasional paddling, it will accompany you through all your sessions. What’s more, its plastic blade requires less attention to detail on a daily basis, and is more resistant to everyday impacts.

Available in two or three parts, they’re perfect for family use, as well as for children. In fact, we have aluminum children’s paddles that are smaller, sturdier and more robust.

Adjustable to any size, it’s perfect for you and your friends. The three-part paddle is a little less rigid than the two-part paddle, but can be stowed directly in your inflatable paddle’s carry bag, so you can combine fun and practicality without having to carry a trunk full of gear.

2. Carbon paddle

The carbon paddle is the more powerful of the two. Available in one, two or three parts. They’re light, responsive… so you can give your best performance at every session. This nervousness will give you more output and efficiency with every stroke. You’ll be able to cover more distance with less effort.

Available in 50% or 100% carbon, Sroka carbon paddles will accompany you every time you take to the water.

The 2 and 3 part paddles will allow you to test different lengths and find your ideal length, as well as being able to modify the length according to the activity: touring, surfing, racing… and also to relieve certain muscles.

In fact, when surfing, the paddle needs to be shorter, while when cruising, the paddle can be lengthened a little. On a sup foil, you’ll need to lengthen it a little more. A longer paddle will relieve the strain on your lumbar vertebrae, while a shorter paddle will relieve the strain on your shoulders, enabling you to enjoy your sessions longer and in greater comfort.

As for the 1-part paddle, it is recommended for the experienced rider, offering stiffness, responsiveness and responsiveness, it will transmit the best of your performance. Adjustable to the millimetre, get ready to perform in the field.

Is there another option between carbon and aluminium paddles?

Yes, there is still a third choice: a Mixed paddle. The shaft is 50% carbon and the blade is carbon-reinforced plastic. This combines solidity and a responsive shaft with excellent value for money. This type of paddle is perfectly suited to inflatable touring paddles.

All paddles accessories

In a nutshell

In short, the choice of paddle can make a big difference to your experience. It’s important to keep in mind the advantages and disadvantages of each paddle, and opt for the one best suited to what you’re looking for and how you’ll use it.

The aluminum paddle :