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Werner Desperado Whitewater Paddle Review

About.com Rating 4

From Werner Paddles, for About.com

Werner Desperado Whitewater Kayaking Paddle

Werner Desperado Whitewater Kayaking Paddle

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The Bottom Line

The pros and cons that I have listed below are relative to other entry-level paddles. This is the best entry-level paddle on the market and is right on the brink of moving the beginner to the next level in paddle design. It very closely resembles the Werner Rio with two major exceptions. The Rio is yellow while the Desperado is black. The Desperado has a carbon reinforced blade while the Rio is fiberglass reinforced. This makes the Desperado the lightest, stiffest, and most responsive beginner paddle on the market. This also makes the Werner Desperado the highest priced option of the entry-level paddles.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Stiff and Responsive
  • Well Balanced
  • Durable

Cons

  • Poor Visibility Blade
  • Expensive

Description

  • Carbon Reinforced Nylon Blade: The nylon gives durability. The carbon provides stiffness and responsiveness.
  • Fiberglass Shaft: 45 degree feather, right hand control, available in small and standard.
  • Weight: 1021 grams or 36 ounces (for the 197 cm length).
  • Length: 191 cm, 194 cm, 197 cm, 200 cm
  • Price: $165

Guide Review - Werner Desperado Whitewater Paddle Review

The Werner Desperado is a fantastic paddle for a beginner to own. The carbon reinforced nylon blades offer the paddle the stiffness and weight advantages of carbon with the protection of nylon. A seasoned paddler will find these blades to be a bit beefy (thick) and their suspicions will be confirmed as the blade enters the water. The novice paddler will definitely appreciate the added protection that the nylon offers the carbon that lies beneath. This paddle would make a great second paddle for people looking to have an extra one to bring along on trips. The price, while the highest among other entry level paddles, is well worth the added design features that this paddle boasts.
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