Active Tourer

As a longtime Downriver Whitewater competitor I prefer the full carbon Active Tourer to wing paddles. I find no measurable performance differences but, the Active is much better for steering strokes and the occasional quick bracing strokes. The reason I only gave it 3-stars because of a dangerous construction flaw. 2 years ago I was in the middle of a long, technical rapid, going full competition speeds in my very tippy Wildwater racing kayak when suddenly the left blade flew away. It was a near-miracle that I managed to get myself through the rest of those tight, rocky rapids without tipping over and potentially swimming the rest of the rapids. What happened was the end of the shaft split open during normal powerful stokes releasing the blade, while not touching or hitting any solid objects. On top of that when I called Epic and requested replacement parts, Epic refused. They wanted me to pack up and send the paddle back so they could charge me for the full repair, something I am perfectly capable of doing. The flaw is that the paper thin shaft is obviously not strong enough to prevent it from splitting under heavy, yet normal, paddling loads. I do have a second carbon Active and I wrapped a 1" carbon tape+epoxy resin around both ends of the shaft which strengthens the weak points to prevent such a split in the shaft.

I bought the Epic Active Touring in full carbon (210-220) last year and I love it! I was paddling with a Werner Kaliste and wanted a high angle paddle. The Werner Cyprus was too tame, the Ikelos was too aggressive. The Epic was perfect - lighter than the Werner, great power, great catch, smooth release - simply a great paddle! Bonus - The adjustable length allows me to use it with my Current Designs Caribou kayak (set to 210cm) AND with my Placid Boatworks Rapidfire canoe (set to 218cm). I strongly recommend this paddle!

Wow. Last week was my vacation and I spent most of the week paddling. I took out the EPIC. Usually, my paddles of choice are either Lendals or Werners. These are good, sturdy paddles. Then, there was the Epic (the one that I used was the Signature series with burgundy shaft). It was light; it cut the water beautifully; there was power in every stroke. This is a paddle to enjoy for both its beauty and its functionality. It is a 10 and worth it.

I love this paddle! Very smooth, lightest around (full carbon, burgundy shaft). Length lock is great. It did come with the carry case and wrench. Epic provides excellent support.

What a great paddle! My first trip with the new paddle was virtually effortless. The length-lock is a great feature. Sure, it was just over $400 and took over a month to get it but I'm glad I did it, and didn't know how much difference a great paddle makes. It also comes with a sack to protect it in storage. Also well packaged for shipping.