Outrigger Paddles - The Choices

 

Outrigger Paddle Rules

Outrigger paddles used in OC-6 races must conform to the rules of the sanctioning association. While this may seem like a confusing situation, most associations tend to follow the Oahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Associations (OHCRA) canoe paddle rule. Why? OHCRA is the largest association and is the sanctioning body for the Moloka'i Hoe. All KIALOA Hybrid and wood outrigger paddles designed for OC-6 use are built to the OHCRA rule and are legal for use in all of Hawaii’s outrigger races. Any single bladed outrigger paddle may be used in OC-1or OC-2 racing, whether it is wood or full carbon. Ultra-light full carbon outrigger paddles might seem the obvious choice, as they tend to be the lightest construction material, but Hybrid style paddles tend to be the dominant type of paddles on Hawaii’s solo canoe scene.

 

KIALOA Hybrid Outrigger Paddle

KIALOA's Hybrid outrigger paddles are constructed of a carbon blade with a wood core, a triple laminated wood shaft, and a hand shaped wood t-top all of which conform to OHCRA race rules. All of our hybrid outrigger paddles have a 10 degree single-bend at the blade. Hybrid outrigger paddles tend to be the most popular in the racing scene. Whether it is the shock absorbing qualities of the wood shaft, or the slightly heavier weight which makes control of the paddle easier in the wind and surf, the vast majority of hardcore paddlers choose Hybrid outrigger paddles.

 

Outrigger Paddle Shape

KIALOA offers a variety of blade shapes designed with different applications in mind. The overall guiding principal is, the slower the craft the smaller the blade. The strength, fitness and technique of the paddler contribute to craft speed as much or more than the craft itself and factor heavily into your choice of outrigger paddle. Understanding how you are going to use the paddle and your own experience and strength will help guide you to the perfect paddle. Keep in mind that full composite outrigger paddles are not sanctioned by OHCRA for six man paddling in Hawaii.

 

Here is a general guide for KIALOA's outrigger canoe paddles. 

• Lanikai: This is our largest blade, ideal for Men's OC-6 distance and regatta paddling.

 

• Axel II: The all-in-one blade, ideal for men's OC-1 and men and women's OC-6.

 

• Hollyakala: Designed with women in mind, good for both men and women in the OC-1 and women in an OC-6.

 

• Nehu:  This hybrid has the thinnest carbon blade with a wood core on the market. With slight hook at the tip it has a clean entry and very strong catch. Ideal for 6 man and regatta paddling for both men and women.

 

• Double Bends: KIALOA offers a few options for double bend paddles.  These paddles have a bend in the shaft as well as where the blade joins the shaft creating a 15 degree bend.  This is a popular Tahitian style and we offer an all wood Vana and a Teva Hoe Hybrid in this style.

 

• Wacky Shaft: This S shaped shaft was designed to relieve stress on the wrist and forearm. It is a full composite outrigger paddle and comes with the choice of the Methane or Nehu blade.

 

• Keone: This is our full carbon outrigger paddle with an Axel II blade, ideal for one man paddling for both men and women.

 

• Wood Paddles: KIALOA has a variety of wood paddles. The same principles apply with regard to the size of the blade. Some paddlers prefer the more traditional wood models for their natural beauty.

 

• Keiki Kalo: This all wood paddle is designed for kids. The shaft, blade and t-top have all been sized for smaller hands and the material is designed for strength and endurance.

 

Outrigger Steering Paddles

 

KIALOA currently has two outrigger steering paddles in our line-up, the Biscuit and the Foti. Both of these paddles are hybrids and have a 5 degree bend. The steering paddle arguably takes the most abuse in the boat and KIALOA's have been tested by the best.

 

• Biscuit: This blade was designed for calm to mid-water conditions. It is lighter, thinner  and has slightly less surface area than the Foti which allows the steersman to paddle more while steering. It is ideal for regatta racing and paddle-steering across lakes, rivers and bays as well as mild to mid ocean conditions.

 

• Foti: This blade was designed with the Moloka'i Channel crossing in mind. It has a larger surface area and sturdy blade  which is required to maneuver a boat in bigger water conditions. The Foti is ideal for big active water that may require stronger corrections. It is also good for smaller or less experienced steersmen as the larger blade adds force to your corrections.

 

Further Help Choosing a Paddle

KIALOA is employed by experienced paddlers and paddle makers. We are always willing to help you with your decision by e-mail or phone 541-382-5355.