Whitewater paddles are a fundamentally different beast than flat water paddles. You’re not just using them to move forward, you’re using them to manipulate the

Whitewater paddles are a fundamentally different beast than flat water paddles. You’re not just using them to move forward, you’re using them to manipulate the boat in all three dimensions. So rigidity is key and leverage is key. Your paddle stroke in whitewater is basically straight up and down and intended for maximal power in multiple directions, not long-term energy efficiency as it is in touring.