Paddle Information

The first thing to consider before crafting a paddle is the design.  Authentic-CM paddles are made from a single quality red cedar wood following the traditional Greenland paddle design that has been proven for over 4000 years.   Another design consideration is the placement of a shoulder.  I prefer a shoulder only on the bottom of the loom with the top being non-shouldered.  But either top and bottom or non-shouldered paddles can be built based on your preference.  All are balanced and provide years of dependable paddling.  If you know the dimensions of the paddle you want me to design, simply contact me with your specifications.  However for most people one of the three general sizes seems to fit most clients, simply follow the chart below:

Giving Authentic-CM paddles its unique and custom graphic is a layer of high quality fabric print laminated onto the blades.  It makes the paddle a little heavier by only grams so the additional weight is not an issue.  Because of the lower stroke required for proper Greenland Paddles operation, even a heavy Greenland Paddle is less stressful than a light Euro-blade Paddle in my experience.

Each paddle is finished with several layers of a protective barrier against water, temperature changes, and humidity.  Spar Urethane with enhanced ultraviolet absorbers is used as protection to prevent graying and the fading effects of the sun.  Still there is very little that can protect a paddle 100% against Mother Nature.  Water and the sun light are the most destructive elements we have next to fire.  It is advisable to store the paddle out of the sun and out of the water when not in use.   

Although Authentic-CM paddles are durable and strong, adding a layer of fiberglass for additional security is an available option.  Adding fiberglass makes for a stiffer and heavier paddle compared to non fiberglass paddles.  I use both a fiberglass and non fiberglass paddle.  When I go out on Lake Michigan on a windy day with big waves, I take my fiberglass paddle.  When I am paddling long distances on a calm day I will take my lighter non-fiberglass paddle on Lake Michigan and on the river.  So you can either order two paddles or make the decision based on the type of paddling you will typically do.  Fiberglass is an option you can select when ordering.