Crank Shaft SUP Paddles

More reach. More power. Less strain.

In SUP paddling, the most powerful part of the stroke is the initial catch.
That first moment, when the blade enters the water, is where reach, control, and power matter most.

With a straight shaft, achieving maximum reach often forces the paddler to extend with only a few fingers on the shaft. This places extra load through the fingers, wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder.

Over 30 to 40 strokes per minute, that strain quickly adds up.

Better Catch Position

The lightning bolt shape allows the shaft to sit naturally in the hand at full reach.

With a straight shaft, the paddler often has to stretch the fingers to maintain reach.
With the crank shaft, the same reach, or even more, can be achieved using a stronger and more relaxed hand position.

This helps the blade engage earlier in the stroke and exit the water more cleanly.

Why the Crank Shaft Works

The crank shaft changes the grip angle so the paddler can reach forward while still holding the paddle with a full hand grip.

That means:

  • All fingers stay engaged

  • More forearm muscles share the load

  • Less strain through the wrist, elbow, and shoulder

  • A stronger, cleaner catch

  • Better comfort over distance

The result is simple:

Less strain. More power. Longer paddling.

Built for Efficiency

A common issue with straight shafts is that the lower hand slowly creeps up the shaft during paddling. This reduces leverage and makes the stroke less efficient.

The crank shape naturally encourages the paddler to keep the correct hand position.

This is especially useful for:

  • Long-distance SUP paddling

  • Racing

  • Touring

  • Repeated switch strokes

  • Paddlers managing wrist, elbow, or shoulder strain

On switch strokes, the hand naturally returns to the correct position, meaning fewer lost strokes and better rhythm.

Refined Oval Grip Feel

The shaft uses a refined egg oval grip shape, helping the paddler feel the blade angle and feather through the stroke without having to think about it.

This improves control and keeps the stroke consistent.

More Comfort Means More Options

Because the crank shaft reduces strain and improves grip position, many paddlers may be able to use a larger blade area for increased performance.

More comfort means better endurance.
Better endurance means more usable power.

Technical Notes

The standard crank shaft grip position is designed to suit most paddlers.

  • Standard measurement: 27 inches from the tip of the handle to the centre of the crank

  • Suitable for around 90% of paddlers

  • Taller paddlers, shorter paddlers, and extreme white-water paddlers can choose alternative grip positions

Manufactured With Precision

The crank shaft shape is produced using dedicated tooling, allowing consistent shape, repeatability, and controlled manufacture.

Key Benefits

  • Earlier and stronger catch

  • Cleaner blade exit

  • Reduced wrist, elbow, and shoulder strain

  • Better hand position

  • More efficient leverage

  • Improved comfort over distance

  • Better switch-stroke consistency

  • Potential to use a larger blade for more power