The Novorca 86 inch carbon fiber Greenland paddles are currently the most popular paddles I build. Like the 84 inch paddle these are also a favorite among the experienced paddlers. Although these paddles will accommodate a vertical stroke, they also allow a more relaxed horizontal stroke. The additional length will also slow down your cadence just a bit. The 86 inch paddles tend to be a good fit for those people paddling a typical commercial composite kayak such as a Nigel Dennis Explorer. Because the quintessential composite kayak’s foredeck is higher than a traditional skin on frame (SOF) kayak, the added length provides the little extra reach we find comfortable. Reaction time in large conditions is relatively unaffected by this longer paddle.

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