New for this season is the Werner Odachi paddle, a blade designed specifically for whitewater racing.
A nod to the growth of the race scene at home and internationally, Werner is providing paddlers with a new tool to tackle downriver and creek races. The Odachi takes its name from the calvary sword of the samuri, a long blade with a specific purpose. “We’re excited to bring our bomber reliability to such a super specific paddle,” says marketing manager Danny Mongno. The Odachi isn’t meant to be an all-around paddle, and is a blade with a specific purpose, Mongno adds.
The Odachi’s blade to shaft offset enables a significantly more powerful forward stroke, while its long blade length (49 centimeters) provides great leverage. The symmetrical blade shape provides more surface area, and allows for a higher angle stroke. Werner has optimized materials and manufacturing techniques to obtain lower weight, remain strong and provide flex, says Mongno.
Offered in a one-piece design, the straight shaft retails for $350 while the bent shaft retails for $450. Weight is between 30 and 35 ounces.
The Rapid team look forward to getting our hands on one to test!
Learn more about the Odachi here.
