The Hobie Paddle - how many versions?

Hi guys,

The famous two-piece Hobie Kayak Paddle has been around for a while, but doesn't seem to have many fans...

On my Mirage kayaks I think I've used the paddle about twice in the space of 5 years.

I was wondering how many different versions/updates there have been to the paddle over the years?

I can recall two different versions:

1: The "original" one that had a plastic-coated aluminium shaft.
2: The 2nd-gen (?) one that had the fibreglass shaft.

Is that all there is?

Cheers,

Mike.

I don't even know how many... current ones are robust and good performers. We changed the blade last year. It's a good paddle.

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Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

There are several versions of the Hobie paddle. My 2000 used a Werner. In 2006 they were using Bending Branches. Hobie started producing their own design in 2007 of which there were at least 2 shaft versions (as you noted). They switched to Cannon blades in 2015 -- this may be a Hobie-Cannon hybrid (not sure) but is a great improvement in performance. Hobie also makes a 4 piece paddle for the inflatables (fits in the transport bag).

My favorite "Hobie" paddle is the Bending Branches, followed closely by the current Cannon. Hobie's blade selection IMO was not optimal on the Werner (more white water than touring). Hobie's '07 to '14 models are my least favorites -- they didn't perform well and occasionally had some quality issues.

Even though they don't get much use, it's always nice to have a good paddle to lend to our friends in need!

Had to use my paddles frequently on my recent week long float. Wasn't too pleased with them. The blade seemed to flex a lot. Also, for the Outbacks, we would like to get a longer paddle to make it easier to paddle since they are sitting higher. All the paddles appear to be original to each kayak.

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2012 Outback with sail / 2012 Outback / 2013 11' Revo / 2006 16' Adventure (no AKAs)