EOEPS Red Kevlar SUP paddle

Before venturing into the SUP world, I had paddled open canoes for over 30 years. I have built a collection of canoe paddles of varying styles and construction. The one thing they all have in common is that they are all exceptionally light.

When I started stand-up paddleboarding in June 2022, I was shocked by the weight of the paddle that came with the board I was borrowing, especially as it was from one of the top-end brands.

So, as soon as I was hooked on SUP, I started researching for a decent paddle. For me, the paddle is as important, if not more important, than the board.

I got to try out an array of paddles at an event in Norfolk run by East of England Paddlesports, the first online group to obtain British Canoeing affiliation and the largest affiliated club. The paddle which immediately put a smile on my face was the Red Kevlar one. I tried the single-piece version, which felt amazingly light (approx. 460g) compared to everything else.

I soon purchased the two-piece version, which weighs 530g, from Oli, who runs the EOEPS group. I prefer the two-piece version so I can reduce the length when kneeling. There is also a three-piece version, suitable for those where space is a premium, which weighs 610g.

The scooped blade feels very positive on the first catch. There is very little flutter during the power phase. For the technically minded this is achieved by the double dihedral on the power face. The blade enters and exits the water cleanly and quietly. The blade shape is square-tipped as opposed to the teardrop shape. For me, this blade shape feels better over distances. I opted for the medium blade size, which is spot on for a smaller-built person like myself. On the one and two piece versions there is a choice of blade sizes.

The flex is as expected for a Kevlar shaft, and despite the stiffness, I’ve never felt any aching shoulders from using it. The asymmetrical palm grip is perfectly sized and is very comfortable.

Both the two and 3-piece versions have an anti-twist shaft. This is achieved by a flat surface on the upper shaft, which feels very solid, and there is no chance of any movement or twisting when clamped in.

The paddle is aesthetically pleasing with its distinctive red and black Kevlar weave and stands out from the crowd. It comes with the EOEPS logo on the reverse side.

Conclusion
The Red Kevlar SUP Paddle would suit anyone looking for a lightweight, premium quality, performance paddle. This is an ideal paddle for touring and longer journeys and is now my go-to paddle for inland rivers, estuaries, and the sea.  You could easily pay more for a similar weight and quality paddle. There are also cheaper paddles out there, but none that I have tried compare in terms of weight and feel.

For transparency, I am a member of EOEPS, but other than that, I’m just a happy paddle owner; I have no connection with the product.

The paddles weigh between 460g (uncut single) and 610g (for the 3-piece).
Prices start at £235 and include FedEx next day delivery.