Pothole Paddles C1 Paddle?

Coldwater · Post by **Coldwater** » Mon Feb 15, 2010 8:18 pm

Does anyone have experience using a Pothole Paddles C1 paddle? I have looked at other wooden paddle manufacturers as well, however, I am specifically interested in a Pothole paddle for river running/creeking. While paddle weight is a concern, durability is more of an issue. I have used several Bandits and Lightnings over the years, though I've been wanting to try a wooden for a while. Thanks

marclamenace · Post by **marclamenace** » Mon Feb 15, 2010 9:42 pm

Andy Convery at Echo paddles will do custom work if you need it, but its creek sticks are really tough and relatively lightweight. lighter or heavier layup are available too. Echo paddles does have an add on this board (still do right?).

Never heard about pothole, sorry. Their website wasn't very C1 or canoe oriented, to say the least.

xmas0c1c1k1 · Post by **xmas0c1c1k1** » Mon Feb 15, 2010 10:28 pm

Where are you located? If you are a chattooga boater then go ahead and get a pothole otherwise i would look at the echo paddles. I had a pothole they are pretty big clunky. The handles are really big and customer service isn't great unless you live in that area. Their kayak paddles are nice but i don't think the canoe paddles show much innovation. I think echo's look great or look at mitchel paddles especially if you paddle a decked boat

Coldwater · Post by **Coldwater** » Mon Feb 15, 2010 11:46 pm

Thank you for the previous replies. I live in Alaska and, yes, paddle a decked boat. Durability is great, but not if it comes with a "clunky" feel. I really don't have too many complaints with the 58" Bandit fiberglass that I use now, I just think that wood has a nice feel and would be "warm" considering the extreme cold river temps here.

I've looked at the Jimistyx C1 slalom paddle and they look amazing, though so is the price tag. Though I've yet to permanently lose a paddle, I'd sure be upset to part with a 375.- paddle. I may look into the Echo paddles.

golder · Post by **golder** » Mon Feb 15, 2010 11:49 pm

i haven't used a pothole paddle for c1, but i've paddled a few of their raft guide stick a bit. i thought they were quite nice, i was impressed for sure.

that said, i think the jimistix are in a league of their own....if i had the money, thats what i'd spend it on.