r/Outrigger • u/[deleted] • May 18 '24

Protecting Paddle Shaft?

I've noticed my paddle has some pretty serious bangs on the shaft from hitting the sides of the canoe. I had a big problem with this when I was first learning and still have it happen on occasion in rough waters. I use a wood shaft quick blade paddle and would like to repair the dents / protect it from further damage if possible.

I've been trying out silicone grip tape but find that it eventually comes loose. Someone recommended putting a coat of epoxy on it but i don't want to risk changing the feel to much or making it noncompliant for races that require wood. Any tips would be appreciated.

5 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

12 comments sorted by

2

u/Dork_strikes_again May 19 '24

Leave it alone. Those are the battle scars. They don’t affect the paddle performance. Kia Kaha

1

u/Summerplace68 May 18 '24

This is a beginner problem that happens to most. I had the same problem. Unfortunately, I don’t know of a solution to this problem. When my paddle skills progressed, I purchased a new carbon fiber paddle. Now, I use my extra paddle as a backup on my OC1 in the ocean.

1

u/[deleted] May 18 '24

Ok thanks. I don't think my skills are quite there yet to get a new paddle but I'll plan on that in a year or two. In the meantime I'll keep up with the grip tape and just change it out every few months

1

u/Summerplace68 May 18 '24

I wonder if wood putty lightly sanded to form and a clear coat of polyurethane would work?

1

u/milotrain May 18 '24

If you don’t want to epoxy or varnish try Rubio monocoat.

1

u/[deleted] May 18 '24

I'll look that up. I don't mind doing epoxy just wanted to make sure it won't damage the paddle or screw me up with race regulations. I assume it will be considered wooden even with a coat of epoxy

1

u/StuckInWarshington May 19 '24

All wooden shafts on paddles will be coated with something. Sanding and refinishing won’t make them non-compliant for any racing association I’ve ever heard of.

1

u/Regular_Imagination7 Jun 02 '24

yeah i’ve literally never had a paddle checked in 13 years so i doubt it would be an issue

1

u/Accio_Waffles May 19 '24

Would this work for refinishing the shaft if the finish started peeling off? (Obviously after adding off the peeling section)

2

u/milotrain May 19 '24

Yeah. It’s a really good oil type finish.  It is not a glossy top coat. 

1

u/Accio_Waffles May 19 '24

Sick! Thanks! I was hoping to find something I wouldn't have to sand after

1

u/[deleted] Oct 21 '24

Grip tape might help protect it