Kalliste Kayak Paddle

210–260
Length (cm)
21
Weight (oz)
$385
MSRP

Kalliste Kayak Paddle Description

The Kalliste is Werner's most advanced low-angle paddle, with our best paddling design and construction features. You’ll feel exceptionally light, buoyant strokes while the smooth back face gives a quiet entrance and exit from the water. The Kalliste is the smart choice for those touring with a low-angle style of paddling and wanting the conservative yet powerful feel of a mid-sized blade.

Additional Attributes

  • Mid-sized blades are an ideal fit for the great majority of average size paddlers.
  • The volume of the buoyant, full carbon, blades creates an exceedingly light feel for effortless and confident strokes.
  • Dynel® blade edges use a composite roping material, that is impact and abrasion resistant.

Where to Buy the Kalliste Kayak Paddle

Werner Paddles
Kalliste Kayak Paddle Reviews

Read reviews for the Kalliste Kayak Paddle by Werner Paddles as submitted by your fellow paddlers. All of the reviews are created and written by paddlers like you, so be sure to submit your own review and be part of the community!

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5

I bought a 230cm bent shaft…

Submitted by: Kevburg on 12/2/2020
I bought a 230cm bent shaft standard diam carbon Kalliste and have used it three times. My go-to paddle has been a $60 Bending Branches Whisper. I bought the Werner because my wrists and forearms get sore. Putting many hundreds of miles on the BB this COVID year it got to the point where they would start aching in 5 minutes. I was surprised at how much the bent shaft solves the problem. I paddled 23 miles the other day and could have kept going except I ran out of daylight. Glad I bought it. Cons: The blade is longer and thinner than the Whisper. For some reason I seem to get less power on a hard correcting stroke, even though the blade area is bigger. No faster than the Whisper. And the $490 list price, even minus the REI end-of-year 20% discount, is 8 times higher than the BB. Pros that I care about: Easier to hold, the larger shaft diameter and bent shaft are terrific. Warm; the aluminum Whisper shaft is a big negative in cold weather padding. Weight is ridiculously light. The blade is curved, causing less splash for a dryer trip in cross winds, and you don't have to pull it up to get that extra flip of power at the end of the stroke. Oh, and the bent shaft means it doesn't roll around when you rest it on your cockpit rim. Sizing: I'm 6'2", paddle an Epic 18X at 4.5 mph, and the 230cm length works well.
5

I've been paddling a 220cm…

Submitted by: paddler384895 on 7/27/2020
I've been paddling a 220cm carbon fiber Kalliste for the last 6 years. It fits me so well and I'm thinking of picking up a 2nd one and demote my current paddle to be a spare. My current spare is a very old Camano, which I used for years, then I went to a carbon fiber Shuna and finally made the jump to from high-angle to the low-angle Kalliste and never looked back. The light weight of full carbon fiber is amazing and makes long paddles so much easier. Just think you have to hold and swing that paddle thousands of times during a trip. I don't notice any flutter as some reviews mention. I use this paddle with a Romany and a CD Cypress.
5

I recently bought this Werner…

Submitted by: Davey on 7/1/2020
I recently bought this Werner Kalliste carbon bent-shaft 220 cm paddle from Native Water Sports in Jensen Beach, FL--it is the nicest Euro blade I have ever used. The super light weight (712 g) and bent shaft takes the pressure off your wrists— you will never feel the fatigue in your arms. The blade is meant for low angle and perfect for Florida cruising along the Intracoastal and in the mangroves, but when you need the power in ocean swells, it’s right there. Granted, torso height is a more weighted component of paddle length, but paddle style is also a major consideration. A torso height of up to 28” and a low angle paddling style fits a 220 cm just fine, especially the Kalliste which is meant for low angle paddling. I chose this paddle for the habitats I most frequent, which is shallow water and usually exploring the mangroves of the Intracoastal. With my Rebel Ilaga at only 19.25”W and super low volume, the Kalliste is a perfect paddle for what I do and where I go....
5

Effortlessly strokes through…

Submitted by: Davey on 6/2/2020
Effortlessly strokes through the water and wind. I have recently purchased this paddle for my 18’ McNulty Sea Hunter (1986) and what a difference this paddle has made. I no longer need to concentrate on my stroke. I have tried all the articulating positions and have settled on the 45 degree as my default state. The bent shaft is easy on the wrists and hands. Of course the lightness seems impossible. I like the length and slimness of the blade for distance trips, giving me just enough grab without feeling any resistance. Fits together so nicely and feels like a solid shaft. Awesome. Simply awesome.
5

Absolutely loving this…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 9/16/2019

Absolutely loving this paddle! I purchased a new Eddyline Fathom and had been using a Werner Camano for over a year now ( I also have 3 other yaks and a Aqua Bound and a Bending Branches paddle also a Epic midwing) . I found a Kalliste on sale and went for it. New boat , new paddle! Was always fine with the Camano but wow! Big difference. No learning curve and now my technique has improved. Draw strokes, forward, sweeps,etc. The low swing weight is great but besides the foam core I think the less pronounced center rib is the trick. I've read where some complain about fluttering.... What fluttering? People please. Great paddle and I have an old wrist injury that rears its head every now and then and so much better now ! If you have a decent touring kayak and go enough to justify the expense it's well worth it. Just got home from the lake and heading to another tomorrow ready to go all day! Thanks Werner!

5

Bought the paddle mid summer…

Submitted by: Voyageur61 on 9/4/2019

Bought the paddle mid summer in 230 cm length. Love it. Ver light and quiet entry and smooth exit. Would love to see 5 degree feather adjustments but all in all a great paddle

5

This is an amazing paddle.…

Submitted by: paddler549684 on 9/4/2019

This is an amazing paddle. It's so light and smooth, I barely feel like I'm doing any work at all. Plus, it's as rugged as any other paddle when it needs to be. Easy to adjust and it attaches together super smooth. It's also made in the USA for another plus. I would recommend this to anyone.

5

Much like scuba diving where…

Submitted by: CaptainRon on 7/29/2019

Much like scuba diving where your mask is your most important personal piece of equipment, a comfortable kayak paddle is your most critical piece of personal gear for kayaking. The Werner Kallisite is strong, light and intuitive in use. It is amazing how the combination of a light, floating blade coupled with a smooth power and back face make all the difference in the world. The catch is smooth; with no flutter in the power stroke and the release almost happens by it self. If anything ever happen to my Kalliste, I would spend the money to replace it before even buying food or beer. Last year while working out of state, a paddling buddy make my house hurricane ready in my absence. The best way I could think to thank him was to get him a Werner Kalliste in the appropriate size. Money well spent!

5

I have been using the Werner…

Submitted by: tmlesko on 9/10/2018

I have been using the Werner Kalliste, carbon fiber, 2-piece, bent-shaft, smaller diameter paddle for some time now and I love i!. Also, my wife, brother, sister and brother-in-law all have the same paddle because they are wonderful, extremely light, strong, 2-piece paddles that can adjust for feathering in the wind or comfort, I use 30º. If there is one thing that you owe yourself, is a great paddle. Once you try one of these, you will never want to use any other!

3

This is by far the best…

Submitted by: paddler450115 on 7/16/2018

This is by far the best performing low angle sea kayak tour style paddle. I have been using this paddle a little under a year, but am returning it for warranty work. I kayak with folks that go out quite often and demand the best quality equipment. Almost all of them use or have used Werner paddles. The one thing most of them have in common is issues with the button connection. My first Werner had issues and now my Kalliste is having similar issues. In this case, the spring is staying in the compressed position and I cannot budge it. Unfortunate because I cannot think of anything else that I do not simply love about this great product. I wish Werner would get their act together. If Celtic and Aqua-Bound can find a good solution, why not Werner? (I have submitted for warranty and am awaiting response from the company)

5

I have been paddling for…

Submitted by: Ronni-T on 6/4/2018

I have been paddling for several years now. I bought the carbon bent shaft Kalliste kayak paddle last fall. It is very light and very comfortable. It is lighter than my other carbon paddle. It is great for low angle paddling, which I prefer. The adjustment is easy to use. I am very happy with my purchase. Now I just need a newer kayak to go with it.

5

I recently purchased a…

Submitted by: river_rat on 11/1/2016
I recently purchased a Werner: Kalliste Hooked Paddle. I bought this paddle to help me kayak effortlessly against the current on the San Marcos River (TX). The performance of this paddle did not disappoint. Unlike my Aqua Bound: Manta Ray Carbon, I did not notice or feel any flutter. The paddle maintained its performance even when the water was close to 300 CFI upstream after some heavy rain. While kayaking, I pushed myself against concrete structures and rocks and paddle did not break or bend (but the scratches are noticeable).

I used this paddle with my Tarpon 120. Since my height is 5-10 and the boat width is 30" I decided to get the 230cm paddle. Although a 230cm is my appropriate paddle size, I felt that I would've benefited from a 240cm instead. With this particular paddle I caught myself hitting the side of the boat more often than I usually do.

Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase.

5

I owned the Camano paddle,…

Submitted by: Peter_D on 6/12/2016
I owned the Camano paddle, loved it, thought was light enough. Then... my kids bought me for Christmas the bent shaft Kalliste. Waited for 5 months to use it. Used it in early April and all I can say is WOW !!! A huge difference.

If you were going to buy a Camano, save up a few hundred dollars more and buy the Kalliste instead. The difference is HUGE

5

This is the best paddle I…

Submitted by: kayakphotos on 6/6/2016
This is the best paddle I have ever used for my low angle paddling style.

I went with the bent shaft 230cm kalliste to use with a native ultimate 14.5. I wanted something with a more appropriate blade shape for my paddling style. I've been using an aquabound manta ray hybrid that I got for free with my kayak (purchased used.) The manta ray is ok for a cheaper paddle and much better than a dirt cheap entry level model. I decided to step it up to the next level and recently purchased the kalliste.

The first obvious difference is the weight. At 26 oz., it is one of the lightest paddles out there. I also tried bent shaft and straight and I am really liking the bent shaft so far. I would recommend trying both if you have the budget to do so. I also like the foam core blades. They are very light and seem to help my keep the paddle at the right depth for maximum efficiency. The exit is also super clean and precise. In the water the paddle is very quiet with very little splash. I believe this is due to the flatter back vs something like a Camano.

One thing that surprised me a little was how loud the blades are when they hit sticks or underwater logs. This is my first carbon fiber blade, so I'm guessing it comes with the territory. I don't beat on my equipment but the build seems tough enough for my use, which consists of kayak fishing and photography, so I'm often pushing off banks and logs.

My only regret is waiting so long to get a high end paddle. I would recommend making sure that you use a low angle paddling style and then demo this paddle alongside a few other models. I think that a paddle should be a "try before you buy" just like a kayak.

5

I have been paddling with a…

Submitted by: Japi on 7/1/2015
I have been paddling with a bent shaft Kalliste for about 5 years now, with over a thousand miles on the paddle. It is light, pops out of the water thanks to the buoyancy, comfortable all day thanks to the bent shaft, and very solid. I use it both for open water and for river use, and even banging the blade against a river bottom all day doesn't leave a mark. It's been use for countless braces against rocks/shores/docks for entry/exits and it shows no signs of the abuse. A great low angle paddle worth every penny.
5

This is a great paddle!…

Submitted by: paddler235972 on 9/9/2014
This is a great paddle! Bought a carbon, bent shaft - incredible! Light weight, well constructed, pops out of the water at the end of the stroke. I never imagined what a difference this paddle could make, but it is worth every penny (and they are not cheap). Very comfortable, and I can paddle for hours and not notice it.
Try one!
5

Wow, it's light. When the UPS…

Submitted by: stevebaker on 5/28/2014
Wow, it's light. When the UPS guy dropped it off I went out and picked up the box. It felt empty. I shook the box. No rattle. When I opened the box, there was the paddle, securely bubble-wrapped.

On the water it's strong, quiet, and very quiet. I really like paddling with it. The adjustment button is a bit small and hard to work, but I think it'll loosen a bit with time and use. The range of adjustment is pretty wide. A person should be able to find a spot in the comfort zone. It's spendy but well worth it!

5

I love this paddle! I can…

Submitted by: WaterBird on 8/8/2013
I love this paddle! I can only confirm the other positive reviews and add that this has been a very durable paddle for me. After a few years of use it has minor scratches on the blades.

The cons are very small. It's true that the lettering for the angles rubs off over time and yes, the ferrule button is small and very recessed. I barely notice these inconveniences compared to the delite of this light, stiff paddle.

5

I have mild tendonitis in…

Submitted by: paddler235241 on 8/1/2013
I have mild tendonitis in both wrists and I found using a straight paddle got a bit painful after a few hours. I purchase a Kalista bent paddle a few months ago and the difference is amazing. No more pain and paddling is far easier with the buoyancy in the blade of the paddle.

I would strongly recommend this paddle to anyone who has any problems with their wrists. It is fantastic

5

I recently purchased the…

Submitted by: Se7enhdy on 5/3/2013
I recently purchased the 'Kalliste' paddle and I have to rate it a 10. I own an inflatable kayak and it is very important to use a quality paddle and after using many different kinds of paddles the 'Kalliste' hands down makes a world of difference.

I have to admit at first I was hesitant to spend $360 for a set of paddles which cost 2/3 the amount I spend on my inflatable kayaks but what a difference quality paddles make. They are so light and at the end of the day after several hours of constant paddling my shoulders were not sore and did not ache that evening.

I'm convinced that quality-made paddles are necessary for a good adventure kayaking and does make a world of difference. It was just amazing how I am able to pick up speed with each stroke and how strong my paddling becomes and how well my kayak responds to each stroke. Plus, it's very quiet and no splashes. My boat was not wet from water effected by each stroke as the paddle hits and moves in the water.

I rate this product a strong '10'.

5

I've had my Kalliste paddle,…

Submitted by: Alaskagal on 3/21/2013
I've had my Kalliste paddle, with the bent shaft for about five years now and couldn't be happier with it. My principal paddling location is glacial fjords in Alaska.

The Kalliste's light weight and the ability to continually adjust my hand position means less fatigue and more enjoyment. One of the nicest features is the indexed, adjustable ferrule, which is extremely easy to adjust on the fly with very little hand strength required compared to my older Werner Little Dipper with the thumb-button spring set-up. The carbon blade has proven to be very durable; despite some rather extreme use poling through pack ice and shoving off offshore rock faces, it shows very little sign of wear and absolutely no de-lamination.

Probably the best piece of paddling equipment (other than my Feathercraft boat) that I have invested in. The price is a bit steep, but you won't regret the price when you're paddling along with good energy and little hand fatigue for hours on end.

4

Review for: Bent shaft model, 230cm. The below is based on about 65…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 1/18/2012
Review for: Bent shaft model, 230cm.
The below is based on about 65 hours of using the Kalliste, including 7 straight days on Lake Mead and the Colorado River.

Bent shaft: Definitely a help for my arthritis and a bone spur in my shoulder. The angle took a couple of days to get used to, but now it seems natural.

Carbon: Light, yes, and seems to provide a better feel for the water, but if you're trying to birdwatch or not scare wildlife, then carbon is too loud when you're sneaking through the puckerbrush. Every little twig that touches any part of the paddle, especially the blade, sounds like a loud fire popping. I found that entry into the water also was a bit noisier than FG.

Both carbon and bent shaft: Longest day so far is a little less than 10 hours and I felt more alert than with my straight shaft FG paddle over a same length of time in similar conditions. First day out with this paddle found us in 15-20 kt; breeze on the nose over an 8-mile fetch. That produced mixed feelings: The good was the lighter weight definitely saved energy. The not-as-good was that the paddle was buffeted by the gusts quite a bit, no matter what feather angle. My FG paddle doesn't to be as twitchy, but I'll take the energy saving any day in those conditions.
Side strokes (sculling especially) takes some adjustment, but then the quickness of the paddle helps as long as you don't rush it.

Quirks: Got to let this blade do its thing on most strokes. Rush it and you'll feel what seems like a flutter. Take it slow and deliberate, even at a fast pace. This is particularly true using a forward stroke that's all torso with very little elbow flex--a strong, power stroke. With that stroke sometimes I could also feel a bit of flexing in the shaft, might have been my imagination, though.

Feather adjustment: Needs refinement because
1) The button you push to release both halves or adjust feather is miniscule and very difficult to use in cold weather (20 degrees F.)
2) The indication lettering is already showing signs of rubbing off even though we are a Type A about cleaning it every day and my wife has made a paddle cozy to keep it from rattling around in the truck.
3) If you forget what angle you're at (assuming you even need to know by reading a number), you have to take the paddle almost fully apart to read the gauge. Seems like that is an invitation to losing an expensive stick. On the upside though, it does float well.

Recommend waxing the ferrule to make it easier to make feathering adjustments while in our boat in high winds. We use West Marine's Teflon Boat Wax which works well.

Blade size and shape: We're a medium angle paddler mostly, sometimes high, yet we like this blade for our longer days. The lighter swing weight helps us accelerate faster to cruise speed and keep a strong pace more comfortably.

Another advantage to the light weight is when using a "resting" cruising stroke (3 pulls, rest, 3 pulls, rest, etc.)it feels like you're actually getting more of a break because resuming the pull requires less energy.

Durability: Time will tell.

I'd like to see carbon paddle blades in a bright color if the technology allows. This would make the paddle easier to find when it goes missing. A bright blade would also help find a companion if they get too far away and would allow for decent paddle signals. Black doesn't cut it for either.

Pros: weight, shaft angle
Cons: Lettering, feather adjustment, noise, color.

Would I recommend the Kalliste to a friend:
Depends on their skill, dedication to paddling, and their wallet.

5

Had carpel tunnel release…

Submitted by: Rfree on 7/27/2010
Had carpel tunnel release surgery last November and after my first outing with my old paddle this year, I knew I would have to try something else or get a new hobby. So took the plunge and bought a 220cm bent shaft Kaliste paddle. Have used it for the last week on vacation in northern Michigan and have to say it was certainly worth the expense.

It is incredibly light weight and the finish is beautiful. It took me no time to adjust to the bent shaft (my old paddle was a standard shaft Swift paddle which is also a good paddle) and I after a week of frequent paddling, I have not had any issues with the soreness / numbness in my hand or forearm.

I did notice a bit of flutter when I first began using the paddle but that has vanished after I became accustomed with the paddle. It certainly is expensive, but I think you get what you pay for and this is one great paddle that I see lasted me for many years to come.

5

I bought the 240cm ergo to…

Submitted by: mickjetblue on 4/28/2010
I bought the 240cm ergo to use in a canoe, and it arrived last week. I used turtle wax on the ferrule, as I have with all kayak paddles, and it fits together secure and comes apart with no major strain. Quality made paddle, and it paddles as smooth as silk. I have a couple other carbon paddles, and the kalliste beats them for its comfort and resulting efficiency. For low to mid angle, this is the supreme paddle.
5

I just upgraded from a Werner…

Submitted by: Bloss on 7/11/2008
I just upgraded from a Werner Cascadia and the weight difference is profound. I can barely feel the weight of the Kaliste in my hands. I am paddling a Necky Manitou 14 in poly and it flies with this paddle. It kind of pops out of the water on the exit, almost as if it's anticipating your next move. It was expensive but all the yakking experts say you should put your money into the paddle even if you have to buy a lesser boat. That's what I did and, short of damaging the paddle, I don't see ever replacing it. It's a pleasure to use it.
5

After trying others, incl.…

Submitted by: paddler235058 on 12/16/2005
After trying others, incl. Werner's Camano, I demoed a bent 230 Kalliste, and fell in love. Absolutely silent, smooth, buoyant. Best low angle paddle I've tried. Extremely forgiving and graceful in all strokes.
5

I have had my Kaliste bent…

Submitted by: paddler230971 on 3/2/2005
I have had my Kaliste bent shaft carbon fiber paddle for a year and have paddled about 300 miles with it.

I upgraded from a Werner Mid Tour fiberglass paddle. The first time I used the Kaliste, I wasn't so sure that the money I spent for the thing was worth it. The blade did not feel like it got as much "bite" as the Mid Tour and the bent shaft felt somewhat awkward at fist. By the second or third time out and putting in 10-15 miles on each outing, I was aware of diminished wrist and shoulder fatigue with no decrease in performance. I can now say without reserve that the paddle was worth every penny and I would never go back to my old paddle.

I paddle with this paddle all day long with no fatigue and no pain. I have the two piece paddle and I love the way it goes together and comes apart, with numerous feathering positions. It is so slick words just don't do it justice. I do not consider myself an expert by any stretch of the imagination, but in my limited experience, I would highly recommend this paddle.

5

Kallist Bent Shaft Carbon -…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 9/3/2002
Kallist Bent Shaft Carbon - Love it! No unfinished seams as other have reported; I have been using since mid-July with no instances of flutter (although I have had some with my Camano). The only thing I have an issue with is that I like to adjust my hand spacing on my straight shaft Camano and the bent shaft Kalliste really forces your hands into a fixed position. However, that position is perfect! I have had my kids using the Kalliste as they tend to keep their hands to close to the middle of the shaft... great teaching aid! No proiblem with my elbow tendinitis either. All around great paddle!
4

Final review on Kalliste...I…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/29/2002
Final review on Kalliste...I managed to break the paddle blade in a rock garden while surfing. The foam core thing is too weak in our opinion. And even Werner warns that it can be stabbed through the glass face. So we got rid of the survivior and got Werner Camano bent-shaft carbon fiber paddles since we got a deal from NRS. AT was too expensive and cadence was too heavy and felt weird in the hand to us.

Got out replacement Werner carbon bent-shaft Camano paddles at 230 cm. They're light and seem real strong. So far we've paddled only a 100 or so miles on them; 75% in semi-rough to rough open ocean, 25% in surf work (we're sea yakkers) and they feel and work well. We did notice the apparent seam in the shaft that was sanded smooth only at the joint and hand grip areas. AT and Cadence are perfectly finished compared to these. After a couple hundred miles and a kayak trip of two we'll post a followup review.

5

We just got our Kalliste…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/19/2002
We just got our Kalliste bent-shaft carbon paddles and put them through a 18 mile paddle today in San Diego Bay...10-15 milke breeze down the length of the bay, a real bowl of jello. The Kalliste performed well, the bent shaft was nice to paddle with, no wrist fatigue at all even though the wind shifted 180 on us proving the old kayaker maxim that the wind is ALWAYS in your face. We did screw around with bracing and sculling and it worked well. Rolling I had a moment to readjust my roll, but I got it down quick. Also, the swing weight was light, the flew just right...it felt a lot like the FG Camano in terms of flex. So far, we're giving it a 9.9...time will tell on the strength and the ability to take abuse.
4

I've paddled with a Kalliste…

Submitted by: paddler229550 on 7/11/2002
I've paddled with a Kalliste bent shaft carbon for several months. Nice lightweight paddle with a nice feel. I like it a lot. However, under certian conditions it will flutter. I have talked to Werner and they say that they haven't had problems with flutter. However, I know several people how have the same problem. It can even be seen while paddling behind someone else. I still like the paddle but Werner needs to work on the blade design. The straight shaft flutters as well. I also own a Camano and Little Dipper in fiberglass. They are both great and do not flutter.