Hi Everyone,
I recently went for a carbon paddle and it was not a Zaveral. I am someone who kneels in my Wenonah Wilderness 99% of the time, uses a lot of correction strokes and likes a symmetrical paddle.

I have owned an later sold a Zav (xtreme, straight shaft) because I didn't like the awkwardness of an asymmetrical paddle--I do a lot of palm rolls. But, I have to say I have never handled a better made composite paddle.

So when I saw that Werner now has a symmetrical carbon paddle, I ordered one from REI. I liked it so much that I ordered another one. On my scale a 58" weighs 13.4 ounces and it is significantly burlier than the Zaveral. But, it is not as good looking. But, it does what I need it to do.

Check it out here: https://wernerpaddles.com/paddles/canoe/journey-carbon-1-piece-straight-shaft

Nice! Thanks for the post. We also like straight-shaft symmetrical paddles with T-grips, and bought carbon Wenonahs a couple years ago. Couldn't get a paddle longer than 56", however, and it's good to see the Werners list lengths from 50" to 62" in one-inch increments. They must be selling like crazy--every size is listed as 'out of stock' on the website. I'm linking the site below...

TZ

Werner Carbon Paddles

REI has them in stock. But, only up to 58"

Werner Paddle at REI

REI often has Werner paddles 20% off during sales, no member coupon needed. I just bought a Werner Journey in Fiberglass a few weeks ago, 20% off during the REI anniversary sale. Really liked it, light enough for what I do now (day trip fishing with a kid).

Picked up one of these late this year, and I'm loving it.

One thing I'd say is that for any length, it is a relatively small blade and a long shaft. I often paddle with straight shaft paddles in the 54–56" range.

I tried a 56" and it felt WAY LONG. My 54" is actually 53.75" (came from the factory) with a ~36" shaft. I wouldn't mind a shaft ~1" shorter.

argv: "I just bought a Werner Journey in Fiberglass a few weeks ago"

How thick and durable is the blade on this model, or the carbon fiber one for those that have it?

I have a Werner Camano fiberglass kayak paddle and while I like it, the blade is way thinner than I would want in a canoe paddle so am hoping these are not like the kayak paddles. I too am looking for a durable straight blade paddle. Are these flimsy and razor thin like the Zavs or are they much more stout and sturdy? Any side pictures? Will they work as a daily beater paddle pushing off rocks at portages once in a while?

Argo1: "

argv: "I just bought a Werner Journey in Fiberglass a few weeks ago"

How thick and durable is the blade on this model, or the carbon fiber one for those that have it?


I have a Werner Camano fiberglass kayak paddle and while I like it, the blade is way thinner than I would want in a canoe paddle so am hoping these are not like the kayak paddles. I too am looking for a durable straight blade paddle. Are these flimsy and razor thin like the Zavs or are they much more stout and sturdy? Any side pictures? Will they work as a daily beater paddle pushing off rocks at portages once in a while?


"

Less than 1/8” thick, similar to my one Zav, not quite as fine as my Barton paddle. None are flimsy. I love fine edges on a canoe paddle.

Journey has a foam core so I take it easy with this but don’t baby the paddle and it’s holding up fine.

I do beat the crap out of my Werner bandit paddles, with blade edges nearly as fine, and heavy whitewater abuse and they go the distance whatever you need. If you’re looking for a beater I suggest you consider any of the Werner whitewater canoe paddles. They paddle great, go the distance, are durable, and not terribly heavy.

Thanks. It seems like the carbon fiber might be plenty durable, especially if it has a dynel edge. I definitely push off rocks out of necessity on some portages, and “pole” the mud on when it gets swampy. I’ve never broken a paddle, but I usually have a WW or wood paddle on my trips and that needs to change.

After dozens and dozens of hours of use including a four day fall trip, I think this paddle was a good investment. If you find some svelte edging option please post up here. Not sure I’d do it proactively but would be interested.