Save money on a "bent shaft" paddle with Accent's new "Energy" innovation: a premium design at an affordable price. I own the carbon and aluminum models, each with its rubber grip that reproduces the advantages of a bent shaft. The aluminum shaft version is under $100 ($95 for the two-piece) and $189 for the carbon, all of which is roughly half what one would pay for most bent shaft paddles out there. The innovative rubber grip gives a non-slip bent-shaft boost to the paddler by aligning the hands in an optimum position for comfort and power. I have used these wonderful new "Energy" paddles in 35 mph (30 knot) winds and waves. When the kayak weathercocks or turns into the wind, it is still easy to slide one's hands along the shaft to lengthen the stroke against the turn, as with a straight-shaft paddle. The extra power one gets with the bent shaft, though, lessens the need to adjust hand positions against weathercocking. I do a lot of cold-weather paddling in my home state of Minnesota and in the Vancouver, B.C., region where I live, and I was impressed by how the rubber bent-shaft grips on the aluminum paddle keep the hands as warm just as on the more expensive carbon model. Of course, the carbon version is nine ounces lighter (29 oz); but both have such excellent swing weights that even the heavier aluminum model was easy on the shoulders and back. For an inexpensive paddle of premium design, the aluminum "Energy" is a great value. One should pick it up before the manufacturer raises the price. The carbon "Energy" has the feathering upgrade, however, with its "Kingpin Connection" feature, which I prefer, along with the lighter weight. The carbon "Energy" is still a terrific value, and over the lifetime of using a paddle, well worth the extra money. Top marks for the "Energy": smart innovation, indeed!
