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This design was based on paddles used by the Beotuk native people of Newfoundland, and also on the paddles shown in old paintings of Canadian voyageurs. In other words, paddles used in big water, all day every day. Ray tested his first special for four years before putting it on the market.
Once you get used to the Special's long slow stroke, you will not want a shorter blade. The Special has a long blade, as long as 33" for the 66" paddle. But it is narrow - 5 inches, the widest part is at the shoulder, and this paddle has an equal length blade and shaft. Compared to other paddles, the Special has a short shaft. This makes it easy to lever that big blade through the water. The tip of the blade, which is way down there in the water, describes a big arc with its stroke. It is that arc which gives you control. The bigger the arc, the more control. Because of the control it gives, and the ease of using it, the Special makes a great solo paddle as well as tandem. When using the Special, you will make one-third fewer strokes to go a given distance as you would with a standard paddle. So you will arrive at the end of the lake at the same time as someone using a standard paddle, but you won't be tired. This paddle is definitely not for whitewater, but we use Specials everywhere else. The Special's long blade must be perfectly symmetrical, which requires Ray's skill and experience. A truly unique paddle. Lengths: 58", 6l", 64", 66" Price: $140 (Price shown is in Canadian $) |