The Werner Ikelos is my favorite paddle of all time. I tried several others including the Werner Calliste and still feel the Ikelos is the best paddle for me. The ergonomically shaped shaft really does make a difference. The weight of the paddle is perfect. I paddle a 215cm which is a bit long for my size (5'2") but for the variety of conditions I paddle in and wanting to only carry one paddle, this is it. I paddle a 20\\' Necky Looksha 2 around the ocean in the Ft. DeSoto to Caledesi Island area and whether I'm in surf, rough water, or a calm day, the paddle has never let me down. I didn't believe others when they kept saying I had a great boat, now when was I going to get a great paddle? Once I had the right paddle, it made a big difference. Try one, and you'll agree!