Generally, sprinters use the least flexible shafts, and marathoners and surfskiers use the more flexible shafts.

  • If more flex is the goal then pairing a blade with a softer shaft is recommended over a softer blade with a stiff shaft.
  • Sprinters most often use 04K and 06K
  • Surfskiers use 19k or 21K

 

What are the numbers?

Stiff shafts have a high stiffness number and a low deflection number.

The higher a stiffness # = softer shaft, more deflection when weight is hanging

Stiffness # is deflection in mm with 10kg weight

Braca paddle shaft stiffness, How deflection is measured

 

SOFTER

21K: Stiffness = 6.2 or 5.4 Designed in collaboration with Oscar Chalupsky for surfski paddlers, or anyone looking for the softest, lightweight 100% carbon shaft on the market. 10cm of adjustment.

19K: Stiffness = 4.5. Designed in collaboration with Oscar Chalupsky for surfski paddlers, or anyone looking for a more flexible, lightweight 100% carbon shaft. 10cm of adjustment.

17K: Stiffness = 3.3. Less popular, but often used for paddlers who feel the 19K may be too soft. 5cm of adjustment.

06K: Stiffness = 3.1. Popular for 735, 705 size blades on flat water, some mild ocean paddling. 5cm of adjustment. The most popular Sprint Kayak choice is 06K or 04K.

04K: Stiffness = 3.0. Popular 760 and 775 size blades for larger paddlers on flat water. 5cm of adjustment. The most popular Sprint Kayak choice is 06K or 04K.

03K: Stiffness = 2.8. Popular 775 and 815 size blades for largest sprint paddlers on flat water. 5cm of adjustment.

02K: Stiffness = 2.6. Popular 775 and 815 size blades for largest sprint paddlers on flat water. 5cm of adjustment.

STIFFER