Looking to try a bent shaft paddle. Have never used one. Seeing 2 types 11* and 14*. How much difference is there between the 2? Would be using the paddle in a Prism solo. All insights greatly appreciated!!

Mostly personal preference and paddling style. I don't think you'll really know til you try them. I also have a custom Mitchell 9* and a Sanborn 7*. I don't like a 14 in my solo. It just doesn't feel right sticking out to the side when I'm doing certain stokes. I much prefer the 7 and 9. A 14 in a strong bow paddler's hands can really pull a canoe, but for soloing, I just don't like them. Find a friend with some and do some paddling.

i have a prism, have paddled a 11 and 14, have a sanborn 7 now and it is perfect for me. all strokes perform beautifully. i have a straight bb for a spare.

Always used a 14

You can find any degree from 0 to 14, depends on the maker.
Personal preference and canoe design/paddling style are deciders not popularity.
I paddle sit and switch in a Wenonah Advantage with a 14 degree 48 inch ZRE.
Went to that from a 11 degree 50 inch Wenonah Black Lite, I used with a Wenonah Moccasin.
Probably will not notice any difference till you have more time using one.

butthead

We try to combine bio-mechanics with paddle physics to optimize on water performance. Straight blades work best for kneeling paddlers, the sweet spot where the blade is within +/- 15 degrees of square to the stroke occurring forward of the knee. The higher, kneeling, stance allows torso rotation and reach to operate the paddle well forward.

Sitting paddlers have less rotation and reach. The 12 degree bent paddle squares the blade to the stroke from just forward of the sitter's knee to mid thigh. The nearness to the paddler's torso suggests a shorter shaft which allows a higher cadence for more forward speed.

Marathon racers have tried every bend angle and bio-mechanical opportunity and have settled on 11-12 degrees bend.

11 degrees for me.... I'm always putzing around the shop bending cedar.

For an array of most available bents it would be tough to beat Canoecopia next weekend in Madison WI. l'll be there with Swift, gladly talk about paddles too.