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Werner Rio Whitewater Paddle Review

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Werner Rio Whitewater Kayaking Paddle Blade

Werner Rio Whitewater Kayaking Paddle Blade

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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 paddle that I recommend as a kayaker's first paddle. It very closely resembles the Werner Desperado with two major exceptions. First, the Rio has a yellow blade which makes it highly visible and easy to find in the water. Secondly, the Desperado has a carbon reinforced blade while the Rio is fiberglass reinforced. The fiberglass helps to keep the price down and makes this paddle very affordable to the beginner.

Pros

  • Affordably Priced
  • Durable
  • Yellow Highly Visible Blade
  • Well Balanced

Cons

  • Heavier
  • Thick Blades

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: 1077 grams or 38 ounces (for the 197 cm length).
  • Length: 191 cm, 194 cm, 197 cm
  • Price: $125

Guide Review - Werner Rio Whitewater Paddle Review

The Werner Rio is a fantastic paddle for a beginner to own. The fiberglass reinforced nylon blades offer the paddle the stiffness and weight advantages of fiberglass with the protection of nylon. True it is not as stiff as the carbon reinforced Desperado, but the novice paddler will find that it more than adequately gets the job done.

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 definitly appreciate the added protection that the nylon offers the fiberglass 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 Rio is the cheapest whitewater paddle that Werner makes for adults.

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