A nick or ding on your paddle blade is not the end of the world. Carbon fiber blades are not difficult to repair with one or two easily obtainable items from your local hardware store. In the accompanying video, Quickblade Paddles founder Jim Terrell demonstrates the strength and durability of his paddles and the ease in which the blades can be repaired should they become damaged. In order to protect your paddle while not in use, I recommend storing your paddle in a full length paddle bag. A full length paddle bag gives your paddle the maximum level of protection and enables you to store it upright on a hard surface and protect it from abrasive surfaces when crammed it into the back of your vehicle. Alternatively, if a full length paddle bag is undesirable, there are a wide range of blade covers available to protect the paddle blade when not in use.
One of the most common times a blade may become damaged is while in transit to the water. Your paddle may fall on the ground while unloading your board in a parking lot or inadvertently knocked against a hard surface when carrying your equipment to the water.
Risks to your paddle’s blade during normal use can vary depending on your location. The ocean, lakes and rivers can all contain rocks or other unseen obstacles below the water’s surface. This is particularly common when SUP surfing where rocks and reefs can easily damage a paddle blade and more.
Always familiarize yourself with the conditions before paddling and be mindful of your surroundings when on the water. Most importantly of all, keep paddling my friends!
#JimTerrell #paddleblade #paddles #Quickblade
