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Alphacyber
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  Quote Alphacyber Replybullet Topic: Gear for beginners
    Posted: 09 Jan 2010 at 12:28pm
I'm new to hardshelling and didn't find a topic on gear for beginners, so I'm starting one.  In particular I'm looking for advice on paddles.  I've looked at guides on websites but would like to hear from the people who know and use this stuff.  I'm nearly 6'2" and looking for a good multipurpose paddle that will get me down the river and let me play some while I'm at it. 
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Kiwi
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  Quote Kiwi Replybullet Posted: 09 Jan 2010 at 12:37pm
if you know your gonna stick with it buy a werner paddle, like the powerhouse or the player, for ~$225 or so.
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James
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  Quote James Replybullet Posted: 09 Jan 2010 at 1:59pm
Alpha I am 6'3" and I have huge feet. We should chat if your ever interested in getting the scoop on a common problem for big paddlers. In the meantime there is a great beginner guide that was written by Arn you should check out.

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Connor
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  Quote Connor Replybullet Posted: 09 Jan 2010 at 2:58pm

Werner paddles are the best because they break less than other brands (AT and definately Seven2). Other than that its just what you like in a paddle and how much you want to spend. Try out how a bent shaft compares with a straight shaft on a river before you buy a paddle.

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Alphacyber
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  Quote Alphacyber Replybullet Posted: 09 Jan 2010 at 4:27pm
Alright, from what I've already heard from others and what I've heard here I'm sold on Werner.  Any tips on what length to get and which design to use for all around paddling?
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irenen
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  Quote irenen Replybullet Posted: 09 Jan 2010 at 8:50pm
I really like the Werner Stikine for all around paddling.  You probably also want to think about what degree of feather you want. I personally don't like more than 30 (currently paddling with a 15, which I like better) but there are great boaters out there using 45 degree feather.  I think (and hear from better paddlers) that overall some things are easier with a 30 degree or less feather.
It's all fun and games until someone loses a paddle.
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Kiwi
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  Quote Kiwi Replybullet Posted: 10 Jan 2010 at 11:53am
get a <200 cm paddle
I'm 6'6" and have a 206 cm powerhouse, it's phat.
maybe a 202? as long as your hands aren't on the paddle blades when you paddle your good
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Kiwi
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  Quote Kiwi Replybullet Posted: 10 Jan 2010 at 11:56am
also +1 for 30 degree feather. if you've never paddled with a feathered paddle get a 15 degree.
my first paddle was almost a 90 degree feather, so my stroke naturally includes a twist of my wrist, less feather is nice for creeking and bigwater though, it's easier to brace on both sides when your getting tossed around.
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