One of the most important decisions you’ll make as a standup paddler is deciding which SUP paddle is right for you. While you don’t need to limit yourself to one paddle, you’ll still want to choose the best paddle to help you achieve a particular goal or experience.
Our trio of high-performance SUP racing, touring and training paddles features the most innovative blade designs and top performance in the sport. While the Hydro FlowX was our original game-changing SUP race paddle, we’ve expanded the collection to include our lightning-fast Hydro SprintX for sprinting and our hyper-smooth Hydro TempoX for recreational flat-water paddlers.
The question is: Which Hydro is best for you?
To make the best decision, you’ll need to consider a few factors including skill level, paddling goals, injury history, budget, and paddling discipline—racing, sprinting, touring, etc. This quick guide to race and touring paddles is intended to help you make the best decision to advance your paddling goals, but if you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to send us a question.
RACING, TOURING & FITNESS PADDLE COMPARISON
SUP PADDLE FOR RACING, ENDURANCE, TOURING & FITNESS
Featuring a revolutionary new blade design, the test winning, and world recored breaking Hydro FlowX redefines what a paddle stroke feels like—a fluid movement which reduces energy usage while increasing forward thrust. Whether you are training, racing or cruising, this paddle will enhance every moment spent on the water—both in terms of performance and pleasure.
Ideal Paddler for Hydro FlowX:
You are passionate about standup paddling and want to improve both your performance and on-water experience. It’s likely that you regularly compete in SUP races, but perhaps you simply get on the water to train for fitness and fun. Long distance paddling is something you regularly participate in, whether it be in flat-water or downwind conditions.
You are looking for a paddle that not only improves your overall performance, but also reduces fatigue and protects your body from injury—ultimately allowing you to spend more time on the water.
You want the best paddle money can buy.
Best For: Professional Paddlers, Advanced Paddlers, Middle / Longer Distance Racing >5km, Endurance Events & Races, Donwwinding.
PADDLE TECHNOLOGY & FEATURES
ADVANCED FLOW TECHNOLGY (AFT)
- A completely re-imagined design.
- Increases blade efficiency through the water.
- Locks blade in to eliminate lateral movements.
- Creates a smooth, consistent and efficient stroke.
DEEP POWER SCOOP (DPS)
- Single deep scoop design with dihedral edges.
- Delivers a powerful, efficient and smooth paddle stroke.
- Increased power enables the use of smaller blade sizes.
- Works in harmony with AFT.
100% TEXALIUM & CARBON SHAFT
- The original TEXCARBON shaft is built with pre-preg Texalium and 24T pre-preg carbon.
- Textured finish increases grip while being gentle on the hands.
- Delivers excellent performance, very low weight, and a near-zero failure rate.
- Increased UV resistance which reduces carbon fatigue and increases paddle longevity.
- Reflective silver finish helps to keep paddle cool in hot climates.
- Exceptional impact resistance.
POWER GRIP HANDLE
- Long lasting comfort for racing and touring.
- Improved connection between hand and paddle increases power.
- Hollow pre-prep carbon construction for reduced weight.
SLIM & REGULAR DIAMETER SHAFT ALTERNATIVES
- 26.5mm (Slim) shaft on Medium, Small and Extra-Small blade sizes.
- 29mm (Regular) shaft available for XL, large, Medium and Small blade sizes.
CARBON REINFORCED ROUNDED EDGES
- We added extra carbon reinforcement to the blades edges.
- All edges are rounded with smooth transitions.
- Reduces or eliminates board damage.
- Increased paddle strength.
- Rounded edges are safer.
SLIM-LINE BLADE/SHAFT JOINT
- Smooth edges prevents board damage.
- Reduces drag through the water.
- Sleek and efficient transition between shaft and blade.
- Reduces blade weight.
MODERATE 9.3° BLADE ANGLE
- Promotes smooth blade entry.
- Ideally suited for medium and longer distance paddling.
FIVE BLADE SIZES
- Extra-Large: 616cm² / 96 in² | For 90 - 110 kg / 200 - 245 lbs
- Large: 568cm² / 88 in² | For 80 - 100 kg / 175 - 220 lbs
- Medium: 530cm² / 82 in² | For 70 - 90 kg / 155 - 200 lbs
- Small: 491cm² / 76 in² | For 60 - 80 kg / 130 - 175 lbs
- Extra-Small: 457cm² / 71 in² | For 50 - 70 kg / 110 - 155 lbs
3-PIECE TRAVEL OPTION AVAILBLE
- The shaft has 2 x HEX joints.
- Built to your desired length.
- Looks and paddles like a 1-piece paddle.
- Complete with 3-piece paddle bag.
- Ideal for travel.
- Ideal for storage.
THE LIGHTEST RACE PADDLE
- All unnecessary weight removed.
- Example: Medium that’s cut to 74″ (188cm) is only 14.1 oz (399 gr).
- Reduced weight translates into improved paddling experience.
- Reduced weight is good for your body.
- PowerGrip handle
- The Lightest Race Paddle fr. 340 gr. (12.00 oz.)
- 100% Texalium & 24T Carbon Shaft
- 26.5mm and 29mm Shaft Options
- 3-Piece Option Available
- Slim-Line Blade/Shaft Joint
- Advanced Flow Technology (AFT)
- Deep Power Scoop (DPS)
- Rounded Edges for Reduced Board Damage
- Moderate 9.3° Blade angle
- Sizes: XL, L, M, S, XS
If you have any questions about the Hydro FlowX paddle and whether it is suitable for your paddling needs, please get in touch and we can discuss via chat, email or arrange a personal consultation.
Hydro FlowX – Introduction
Hydro FlowX – Reviewed
Hydro FlowX – New 24hour World Record
Test Winner: The best paddle money can buy (Reviewed by Supboarder)
A SUP PADDLE FOR SPRINTING & SHORT DISTANCE RACING
A first-of-its-kind SUP paddle designed for sprinting and short-distance racing, our all-new Hydro SprintX enables you to maximize speed and acceleration over a short distance. Developed in collaboration with APP World Champion Arthur Arutkin.
Ideal Paddler for Hydro SprintX:
You’re an advanced or professional standup paddler that will be competing in SUP sprint racing or short distance and technical style racing. Finding a performance advantage is your main goal—especially important considering SUP sprint races are decided by tenths of a second. You possess excellent paddle stroke technique and are simply looking to maximize your speed and acceleration over a short distance.
The Hydro SprintX is unlikely to be your first or only Black Project paddle, it is ideally paired in your quiver with the Hydro FlowX.
You are in search of the fastest and most explosive SUP paddle in the sport. Win or lose, you’ll be holding the most lethal paddle on the start line.
Best For: Professional Paddles, Sprinting, Short Distance Racing <5km, Technical & Beach Races, 200m races, Time Trials, Downwind Foiling.
PADDLE TECHNOLOGY & FEATURES
ADVANCED FLOW TECHNOLGY (AFT)
- A completely re-imagined design.
- Increases blade efficiency through the water.
- Locks blade in to eliminate lateral movements.
- Creates a smooth, consistent and efficient stroke.
SHALLOW POWER SCOOP (SPS)
- Single shallow scoop design with dihedral edges.
- Delivers a powerful, efficient and smooth paddle stroke.
- Increased power enables the use of smaller blade sizes.
- Works in harmony with AFT.
TEXALIUM & 30T CARBON SHAFT
- The upgraded TEXCARBON30T shaft is built with pre-preg Texalium and 30T pre-preg carbon.
- Textured finish increases grip while being gentle on the hands.
- Delivers excellent performance, very low weight, and a near-zero failure rate.
- Increased UV resistance which reduces carbon fatigue and increases paddle longevity.
- Reflective silver finish helps to keep paddle cool in hot climates.
- Exceptional impact resistance.
POWER GRIP HANDLE
- Long lasting comfort for racing and touring.
- Improved connection between hand and paddle increases power.
- Hollow pre-prep carbon construction for reduced weight.
POWER TAPER SHAFT
- Round tapered design from 29mm at the base to 23.5cmm at the handle.
- High kick point flex pattern locks power in low down and offers more comfort with increased flex in the upper portion.
CARBON REINFORCED ROUNDED EDGES
- We added extra carbon reinforcement to the blades edges.
- All edges are rounded with smooth transitions.
- Reduces or eliminates board damage.
- Increased paddle strength.
- Rounded edges are safer.
SLIM-LINE BLADE/SHAFT JOINT
- Smooth edges prevents board damage.
- Reduces drag through the water.
- Sleek and efficient transition between shaft and blade.
- Reduces blade weight.
SHALLOW 7.5° BLADE ANGLE
- Promotes high cadence paddling.
- Encourages and shorter, more compact stroke, ideal for short distances.
- Provides instant acceleration.
FOUR BLADE SIZES
- Extra-Large: 606cm² / 94 in² | For 90 - 110 kg / 200 - 245 lbs
- Large: 565cm² / 88 in² | For 80 - 100 kg / 175 - 220 lbs
- Medium: 530cm² / 82 in² | For 70 - 90 kg / 155 - 200 lbs
- Small: 494cm² / 76.6 in² | For 60 - 80 kg / 130 - 175 lbs
LIGHT & STRONG
- All unnecessary weight removed.
- Reduced weight translates into higher cadence.
- Built strong, failure is not an option during races.
If you have any questions about the Hydro SprintX paddle and whether it is suitable for your paddling needs, please get in touch and we can discuss via chat, email or arrange a personal consultation.
SUP PADDLE FOR FITNESS, TOURING & RECREATIONAL RACING
Inspired by the revolutionary blade design of our top-rated Hydro FlowX paddle, but at a more affordable price point that will appeal to a wider market—the Hydro TempoX is the perfect choice for flat-water paddlers searching for a mix of premium performance and high value.
Ideal Paddler for Hydro TempoX:
You have been standup paddling for a while with an all-around recreational paddle, like our Lava, but are ready to step up to the next level. While you may occasionally enter a race for fun, your main motivation is getting on the water for touring or fitness paddling. You are beginning to paddle longer distances, but fatigue or soreness is holding you back from paddling further and/or more regularly.
You are looking for a carbon SUP paddle that’s forgiving and naturally helps correct your form, while still providing maximum performance and reduced fatigue for long distance flat-water paddling. You may have heard about the revolutionary performance of our Hydro FlowX and wanted to experience it for yourself, but are looking for a more budget-friendly option.
The adjustable option will be attractive for those looking to experiment with paddle length or share their paddle with others.
Best For: Intermediate Paddlers, Advanced Padders, Touring, Fitness, Middle & Long Distance Paddling, Recreational Racing.
SUP PADDLE TECHNOLOGY & FEATURES
ADVANCED FLOW TECHNOLGY (AFT)
- A completely re-imagined design.
- Increases blade efficiency through the water.
- Locks blade in to eliminate lateral movements.
- Creates a smooth, consistent and efficient stroke.
MEDIUM POWER SCOOP (MPS)
- Single moderate scoop design with dihedral edges.
- Delivers a predictable, efficient and smooth paddle stroke.
- Increased power enables the use of smaller blade sizes.
- Works in harmony with AFT.
REFLEX 24T CARBON SHAFT
- The REFLEX shaft is built with 24T pre-preg carbon.
- Matte, sanded smooth finish.
- Delivers excellent performance, very low weight, and a near-zero failure rate.
- The REFLEX100 is a little stiffer and ideal for taller and heavier paddlers.
- The REFLEX90 is a little more flexible and ideal for shorter and lighter paddlers.
RED POWER GRIP HANDLE
- Long lasting comfort for racing and touring.
- Improved connection between hand and paddle increases power.
- Hollow pre-prep carbon construction for reduced weight.
SLIM & REGULAR DIAMETER SHAFT ALTERNATIVES
- 26.5mm (Slim) shaft on Medium and Small blade sizes.
- 29mm (Regular) shaft for Medium, Large and XL blade sizes.
CARBON REINFORCED ROUNDED EDGES
- We added extra carbon reinforcement to the blades edges.
- All edges are rounded with smooth transitions.
- Reduces or eliminates board damage.
- Increased paddle strength.
- Rounded edges are safer.
SLIM-LINE BLADE/SHAFT JOINT
- Smooth edges prevents board damage.
- Reduces drag through the water.
- Sleek and efficient transition between shaft and blade.
- Reduces blade weight.
MODERATE 10° BLADE ANGLE
- Increased reach.
- Smooth paddle entry.
- More forgiving feel.
FOUR BLADE SIZES
- Extra-Large: 612cm² / 94.9 in² | For 90 - 110 kg / 200 - 245 lbs
- Large: 563cm² / 87.3in² | For 80 - 100 kg / 175 - 220 lbs
- Medium: 506cm² / 78.4in² | For 70 - 90 kg / 155 - 200 lbs
- Small: 470cm² / 72.9in² | For 60 - 80 kg / 130 - 175 lbs
3-PIECE TRAVEL OPTION AVAILBLE
- The shaft has 1 x HEX joints.
- Paddles like a 1-piece paddle.
- Complete with 3-piece paddle bag.
- Ideal for travel.
- Ideal for storage.
ANTI-TWIST ADJUSTMENT
- Adjustable paddles come with 30cm (12 inches) of adjustment.
- Each blade size is optimized for different size paddles.
- XL | 195 - 225cm
- Large | 185 - 215cm
- Medium | 175 - 205cm
- Small | 165 - 195cm
- Power Grip Handle
- Adj. Paddles Have 30cm (12") Anti-Twist Adjustment
- REFLEX 24T Carbon Shaft
- 26.5mm and 29mm Shaft Options
- 3-Piece Option Available
- Slim-Line Blade/Shaft Joint
- Advanced Flow Technology (AFT)
- Medium Power Scoop (MPS)
- Rounded Edges for Reduced Board Damage
- Moderate 10° Blade angle
- Sizes: XL, L, M, S
If you have any questions about the Hydro TempoX paddle and whether it is suitable for your paddling needs, please get in touch and we can discuss via chat, email or arrange a personal consultation.
RECOMMENDED PADDLES & FINS
-
Hydro FlowX
$625.00 -
Hydro SprintX
$625.00 -
Hydro TempoX Adjustable
$475.00 -
Tiger v2 Pre-Preg
$175.00 -
Sonic v2 Pre-Preg
$175.00 -
Condor Pre-Preg
$175.00
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New PowerGrip Handle Will Maximize Your SUP Paddle Performance
