About
In 2007, Neptune Paddles was founded on the island of Maui. The sport of stand up paddle surfing (SUP) was just starting to take off and while all the attention was given to board shapes and designs, the evolution of the paddle was non-existent.
The founders of Neptune Paddles saw a need in the lineup for a paddle that was designed for SUP and not just a long canoe paddle, which was until now the only kind available.
Neptune Paddles ONLY makes paddles for SUP. We are not a canoe or kayak paddle company that figured it would make a quick buck in a rapidly growing sport by adding a SUP paddle to their product line. It is easy to take a canoe blade and stick it on a longer shaft, and voila, you have a SUP paddle!
Then the failures started happening……….
We have seen shafts snap, blades delaminate, blades break, and have heard overall dissatisfaction with what was available. One of our team riders has had a dozen of various competitors paddles fail in one year! Neptune failures in 2 years=zero
Neptune Paddles are an engineered paddle which were designed to eliminate the current known mechanical failures, while at the same time addressing the SUP paddlers ergonomic needs.
We started at the top, and designed an ergonomic handle that fits in the hand comfortably while providing an effective grip.
The biggest difference you will see and feel is our shaft. We designed the shaft with a curve to make each stroke much more effective by producing a longer stroke with the same arm reach. If you have ever felt like you just needed a bit more dig to get onto that wave– you now have it! We have used a proprietary combination of carbon fiber and fiberglass to allow light weight with good flex and strength. This provides each stroke with a little extra ‘kick’ at the end to further enhance the effect of each paddle stroke. The shaft in cross-section is an elliptical ‘pear’ shape to fit comfortably in the hand and thereby reduce fatigue.
Last but certainly not least is the blade. Our blade design allows smooth entry in and out of the water- none of the blade wander felt with flat blade faces. The water channels along the blade face giving smooth hydrodynamics while allowing good stroke force and resulting propulsion.
Touring Paddle: This paddle is designed for flat water and downwind runs. It is a perfect all-around paddle. The Touring Paddle shaft has a softer flex which is easier on the muscles and joints. It stores kinetic energy giving the end of your stroke a kick, improving the stroke efficiency.
Wave Paddle: The wave paddle has a stiffer shaft for the quick bursts of acceleration needed to make the critical drop and stability when leaning on the blade to carve turns.
Will you feel a difference with each stroke? Yes – a more smooth glide through your entire stroke, and a longer effective stroke, propelling you forward more efficiently. You’ll feel an even larger difference after paddling for an hour- you’ll have gone much further or caught more waves, and your hands won’t be complaining!