Lava 3-Piece Adj.
Lava 3-Piece Adj.
All-round travel paddle with FUSION adjustment technology
$350.00
Out of stock
ITEM# LAVA_TRAVEL
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A lightweight & forgiving SUP Paddle built to excel in all conditions from flat water to surfing
Versatile, strong and lightweight, the Lava is your best bet if you want one paddle to do it all.
The LAVA adjustable SUP paddle is ideal for standup paddlers who want a family SUP paddle that can be shared amongst friends and family, but still offer excellent all-water performance.
This full carbon paddle shares much of the same DNA as our premier race and surf paddles, but features a more forgiving blade design that’s better suited for a less aggressive and lower cadence paddle stroke.
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Reviews (14)
Lava 3-Piece Adj.
14 reviews
Updated paddle review
October 13, 2025 at 11:00 am
Came back to write a new review saying they finally got back to me on customer service and when they did they were very apologetic on there late response and made up for the headache by upgrading my paddle which was super nice of them. After going out on a couple of journeys with my new paddle definitely can say it was worth the wait!!! I went back to my old paddle for a second to let my friend try the new one and was blown away by the difference.
Shipping and customer service
September 6, 2025 at 8:26 am
Both shipping and customer service has been terrible. I waited two weeks and finally decided it was time to reach out and see if there was any update on my paddle shipping timeline. Reached out once with no response for a week so I decided to reach out again. And decided to ask in several places. Tried messaging them on website, an email that redit recommended, Instagram and Facebook. All of which I never got a response to another couple of days later. Wouldn’t have been a big deal they put on there website that it was two day shipping. Very surprising because everyone says they have excellent customer service
Traveling paddle
July 7, 2024 at 2:56 pm
Cannot believe it’s a 3 piece!! Needed a solid go to while traveling. Super light, all around workhorse. Extremely happy with my purchase. Love this company. Thanks!
Light!
June 11, 2024 at 11:02 am
Unbelievable lightness for a 3 piece paddle!
Lava Vs AquaBound
September 4, 2023 at 4:01 pm
I’m a new paddler this season, I purchased an Aquabound Malta, which is a very nice paddle. However I much prefer the blade profile of the Lava – the more traditional style is easier on my shoulder and the big plus is having more paddle in the water, in shallow areas. I use my new Lava for both rec and fishing when out on my PB. I did opt for the small shaft, but I ended up added tape to thicken it up some
Noticeable Difference
July 6, 2023 at 7:01 am
I had a decent paddle from one of the best paddleboarding companies. It came with the paddleboard. But I knew I could find something better. That paddle was heavy (1lb 14 oz) and fluttering. After much research I decided on the Lava. What a difference compared to the one I’ve had before. It’s way lighter, it’s got a dihedral, the paddle size is the size I was looking for, it’s got a 10 degree angle, and it’s got a slim shaft. In other words, it’s the only paddle I found that fit all my requirements. I paddle for hours at a time, 6 – 8 miles or so, and I can go faster and paddle more efficiently with the Lava. So I’m very happy with it.
Amazing Upgrade
May 17, 2023 at 9:47 am
I am pretty new to the SUP world and got this 3-piece to replace a 5-piece Red Paddle that came with my Red Compact board. This Lava is a huge upgrade and definitely noticeable in terms of speed and weight. I have to walk a few blocks with my gear, so the 3-piece design with the very nice bag is perfect. I highly recommend the BP Lava to anyone, even a beginner like myself.
The best 3pc on the market
July 28, 2022 at 11:56 pm
I travel a lot and need something compact and light. This is perfect. Great in all conditions.
Perfect mix of performance and ability to pack and go
February 26, 2022 at 6:13 am
I’m still fairly new to the SUP world but started getting into racing locally over the last year and a half. I currently own a Red Paddle iSUP board so I was looking for something that would really allow me to push myself harder on race days and help me work on my technique while also allowing for me to pack it up with my inflatable and fly somewhere with it and also easily pack it into my car. It’s been the perfect mix for what I asked of it. Looking forward to someday moving up to a more competitive board and paddle but will love the fact that I will have an excellent paddle to use for my next vacation.
Great Paddle! Very happy with my purchase.
December 15, 2021 at 11:47 am
Exactly what the title says. It started with the free shipping. Received it in three days. I use it to surf on a big board and it is super rigid and much lighter than my one piece. I have used it to surf 14 times and it looks brand new. You can’t go wrong if you are looking for a three piece!
Incredibly light and solid feeling
April 5, 2021 at 2:35 pm
I’m coming from a stock carbon/fiberglass three piece paddle with a nylon coated (aluminum maybe) blade with round junction points top and bottom. It got me where I wanted to go, but I knew I wanted lighter. Not only is the Lava travel paddle lighter, it is so well balanced from end to end. When the box was delivered it felt empty. I pulled it all out and assembled it right away. The hex joint is a little snug, but it absolutely does not move at all. The top adjustable portion does not move either, and is very easy to adjust with a flip of the clamp. Without a one piece or adjustable (two piece) paddle to compare to, the three pieces of this paddle connect/integrate together so well that it could be just a two piece design. I was a little thrown off by the smaller blade size, but the shaft is stiffer than my stock paddle, and the lighter weight allows you to turn over your paddle stroke much quicker and more efficiently. I feel like this will be nicer on my shoulders in the long run. The balance of the paddle is amazing. I really can’t feel a difference in weight from the handle to the blade, and I would be surprised if there isn’t one. My wife and I swapped paddles so she could try it, and she was amazed. This is a long term investment that I hope will follow me to future boards. Amazing all around every day or travel paddle.
What I expected and more.
November 22, 2020 at 10:38 am
First off I’d like to say Chris is on it and customer service is unbeatable. Paddle is beautiful and everything i excepted. The construction is solid. I email Chris on a Sunday and got a reply with in minutes. I asked if the 3-piece lava adjustable could be shortened to 160cm. He assured me he could, I put my order in and 3 days later its at my house. Chris this paddle is a gift and is currently on a 6900 mile journey to its new home. Im sure she’ll be impressed just like I was. Thank u for making the sale and customization of the paddle so easy..
Big Mahalo Chris
Next level paddle...
May 12, 2020 at 4:42 pm
Great design, super light weight, seamless fit, can’t go wrong. Well done!
Seriously...this is a travel paddle! No, this could be my everyday paddle!
May 10, 2020 at 11:43 am
So thankful for the Lava three piece fixed length paddle. It is so good it could be my everyday paddle. The padded case is awesome too! I flew a couple times from Florida to Cali and the airlines make you check the paddle and it arrived in perfect shape. It’s light, there’s no flex in the paddle – it’s very stiff. Does not feel like a travel paddle at all.
Why Black Project?
Premium SUP paddles and fins designed to maximize performance, efficiency, and feel on the water.
Quality & Reliability
The finest materials, extensive testing, innovative manufacturing practices all backed by our efficient customer support to ensure products exceed the needs of enthusiasts.
Performance & Innovation
Relentless pursuit of innovation driven by a desire to enhance the performance of paddling equipment, delivering meaningful change and enhanced experiences.
Community & Environment
Active, committed, and supportive of the standup paddling community in a collaborate manner which enriches the lives of paddlers and nurtures the restoration of the environment.
Quality & Reliability
The finest materials, extensive testing, innovative manufacturing practices all backed by our efficient customer support to ensure products exceed the needs of enthusiasts.
Performance & Innovation
Relentless pursuit of innovation driven by a desire to enhance the performance of paddling equipment, delivering meaningful change and enhanced experiences.
Community & Environment
Active, committed, and supportive of the standup paddling community in a collaborate manner which enriches the lives of paddlers and nurtures the restoration of the environment.
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Step #3 – Exploring Fixed, Adjustable, & 3-Piece Shafts
Choosing the right shaft is just as important as choosing the blade. Shaft type, flex, diameter, and shape all impact comfort, control, and performance on the water. Don’t worry—we’ll break it all down so you can choose the right setup with confidence.
Understanding SUP Paddle Shafts: Types, Flex, Shape, and Diameter
Your paddle shaft is the connection between you and the water, influencing power transfer, comfort, injury prevention, and endurance performance. Whether you prefer a lightweight fixed shaft for maximum efficiency, an adjustable shaft for versatility, or a 3-piece design for travel, each option has its advantages. Weight, flex, shaft diameter, and shape further impact how your paddle feels and performs. In this section, we’ll explore the key factors to help you confidently choose the best shaft for your needs.
Racing & Touring Shaft Flex Guide
SUP Surfing Shaft Flex Guide
SUP Foiling Shaft Flex Guide
Recreational Shaft Flex Guide
SUP Paddle Shaft Flex Tips & FAQs
Relax—Don’t Stress About Shaft Flex
Choose the Right Shaft Style for Your Needs
From lightweight 1-piece designs to versatile 2-piece adjustable and travel-ready 3-piece options, we offer shaft configurations to match every paddler’s lifestyle and goals. Whether you prioritize weight savings, adjustability, or portability, there’s a setup built for you.
1-Piece Fixed (Custom built to Fit)
2-Piece Adjustable
Our FUSION adjustment system redefines adjustable paddles with an ergonomic design, internal marine grade brass pin, and Slick Rail Technology. Lightweight and durable, it ensures precise adjustments, resists sand and salt, and delivers a seamless paddling experience for paddlers of all levels.
Explore: FUSION – The Future of Adjustable SUP Paddles
3-Piece Adjustable
3-Piece Fixed (Custom built to Fit)
Innovative solution offering fixed paddle feel in a travel-ready 3-piece build.
Shaft Flex, Simplified.
Why SUP Shaft Flex Matters
Shaft flex is one of the most important and often misunderstood aspects of paddle performance. It affects how your paddle feels in the water, how much power you generate, and how much strain is transferred to your body. At Black Project, we tune flex by adjusting carbon grade, fiber layup, shaft shape, and diameter—so every paddler gets a paddle that feels responsive, comfortable, powerful, and efficient, no matter their size or paddling discipline.
Is Your Paddle Shaft Too Stiff? Here's How to Tell.
Is Your Paddle Shaft Too Soft? Signs to Watch For.
If your paddle blade is too big, you may experience these common issues:
The Benefits of Choosing the Right Shaft Flex
Getting the right shaft flex means you’ll paddle more efficiently, reduce strain on your body, and enjoy a better overall experience on the water. Here’s what you can expect:
What Do Black Project Shaft Flex Ratings Mean?
Paddle Shaft Shape Types and Terminology
Round
The most common cross section used.
Oval
An oval cross section design influences flex.
Straight
A consistent diameter throughout the shaft.
Tapered
Wider at the base and progressively thinner.
Every Stroke Starts Here – Black Project Carbon Shafts
Every Black Project shaft is crafted with 100% carbon construction, using premium Japanese Toray pre-preg carbon for exceptional performance and durability. From the ultra-responsive Tour Carbon, to the surf-optimized Apex, and the all-round Quest, each model is purpose-built to meet the demands of different paddling styles. Use the options below to explore and compare the shaft that’s best for your goals on the water.
Tour Carbon
APEX Carbon
QUEST Carbon
Lightweight. Responsive. Tuned for Excellence.
Tour Carbon
Apex Carbon
The Apex shafts also feature 30T pre-preg carbon laminates for reduced weight and increased paddling power. Being marginally stiffer than previous models the shafts have been optimized for the full range of paddlers. Available in both 29mm and 26mm straight round options. With the trend towards slightly higher volume SUP surf boards, we wanted to increase power slightly and these new shafts help us achieve this while maintaining our familiar flex, reducing fatigue, and safeguarding against injury – when the surf is good, we want you to make the most of it with long pain free sessions.
Quest Carbon
What to Consider When Choosing a SUP Paddle Shaft
Convenience Needs: Fixed vs. Adjustable vs. 3-Piece
Your paddling lifestyle plays a big role in shaft choice. If you want the lightest setup for pure performance, a 1-piece fixed shaft is ideal. Need versatility for sharing, changing boards, or evolving technique? A 2-piece adjustable shaft is the most flexible option. Traveling or tight on storage space? Go with a 3-piece travel paddle that fits in your bag without sacrificing performance.
Paddler Weight: More Power, More Stiffness
Paddler Height: Longer Paddles Flex More
Taller paddlers typically use longer paddles, which naturally flex more due to their length. To maintain consistent performance and feel, taller paddlers benefit from using stiffer flex ratings—especially for racing or high-output paddling. Shorter paddlers may prefer softer shafts to match their body type.
Prior Injuries or Joint Sensitivity
If you’ve experienced shoulder, elbow, wrist, or back issues, a slightly more flexible shaft can make a big difference. Added flex reduces shock and softens transitions during each stroke, easing the impact on joints without sacrificing performance.
Type of Paddling: Sprint, Surf, Foil, or Touring?
Ready to Get Your Paddle?
Order online for fast, direct delivery—or visit a trusted retailer for expert advice and in-person support.
Budget: Materials and Construction Matter
Hand Size: Match Grip to Fit
Shaft diameter has a big impact on comfort. Paddlers with smaller hands often find standard shafts tiring or hard to grip, especially over long sessions. Our Slim Fit shaft options offer a thinner diameter that enhances grip, reduces fatigue, and improves control—especially for youth, smaller paddlers, or women.
Chris’s Advice: Read the Chart, Then Read Your Body
Use our shaft flex chart as your starting point, then personalize your choice. Depending on your height, weight, paddling style, and physical condition, you’ll either choose a stiffer shaft, stay with the recommended option, or select a softer shaft.
If you’re heavier, taller, or prefer powerful, aggressive strokes, consider a stiffer shaft (lower flex number). If you’re lighter, recovering from an injury, or favor longer, relaxed paddling sessions, a shaft with more flex (higher number) will typically be beneficial.
One factor alone might not justify changing from the recommended stiffness unless you’re already at the upper or lower end of a range. However, if two or more factors align, even paddlers in the middle range should consider adjusting. The goal is to find the perfect balance for your paddling comfort and performance.
More Flex. Less Fatigue
SUP Racing Shaft Stiffness Guide (e.g. Hydro SynergyX, and Hydro SprintX)
This table is not designed to be a one-size-fits-all solution, shaft choice will depend on the paddler’s preference, height, and any previous injury. Stiffness recommendations are detailed according to paddle length, if your length crosses over remember that the higher the number = more flex, so if you are at the lower end of the weight range select the softer shaft (higher number) and if you are at the upper end of the range consider the stiffer shaft option (lower number). If you need help in selecting the right shaft flex, please view our Tour Carbon shaft (detailed) guide, 5-step guide, the FAQs or contact us.
Weight
(kg / lbs)
Paddle Length
65 - 78"
165 - 188cm
Paddle Length
74 - 85"
188 - 216cm
Shop SUP Race and Touring Paddles
Hydro TempoX 2-Piece Adj.
Racing & touring paddle with FUSION adjustment technology
$375.00
Hydro SprintX
Fast & Efficient – The SUP Paddle for Short & Middle-Distance Racing, Complete with Premium Bag
$650.00Original price was: $650.00.$550.00Current price is: $550.00.Hydro SynergyX
Lightweight & Efficient – The SUP Paddle for Long-Distance Racing, Complete with Premium Bag
$650.00
Nexus
Precision & Responsiveness – The SUP Paddle for Dynamic Middle & Long-Distance Racing, Complete with Premium Bag
$650.00
Jump to Guide for:
SUP Surfing
SUP Foil
Recreational
SUP Surfing Shaft Stiffness Guide (e.g Surge)
Weight
(kg / lbs)
Recommended
Alternative
Shop SUP Surfing Paddles
Surge
Performance, Lightweight & Durable - The Best SUP Surf Paddle, with Premium Bag
$575.00
Surge 3-Piece
Lightweight & Travel-Ready – The Best SUP Surf Paddle with Travel Bag
$575.00
Jump to Guide for:
Racing & Touring
SUP Foil
Recreational
SUP Foil Paddle Shaft Stiffness Guide (e.g. FoilX)
Weight
(kg / lbs)
Paddle Length
60 - 72"
152 - 183cm
Paddle Length
70 - 80"
178 - 203cm
Shop SUP Foil Paddles
FoilX 2-Piece Adj.
Adjustable SUP Foil Paddle For Downwind, Flat Water & Surfing
$525.00
FoilX 3-Piece Adj.
3-Piece Adj. SUP Foil Paddle For Downwind, Flat Water & Surfing
$525.00
FoilX
SUP Foil Paddle For Downwind, Flat Water & Surfing
$575.00
Jump to Guide for:
Racing & Touring
SUP Surfing
Recreational
Recreation and Touring Shaft Guide (e.g Hydro TempoX, and Lava)
Weight
(kg / lbs)
Hydro TempoX
Lava
Shop Recreational and Touring Paddles
Lava 2-Piece Adj.
All-round paddle with Fusion adustment technology
$300.00
Lava 3-Piece Adj.
All-round travel paddle with FUSION adjustment technology
$350.00
Hydro TempoX 2-Piece Adj.
Racing & touring paddle with FUSION adjustment technology
$375.00
Nexus 2-piece Adj.
Smooth & Responsive – The 2-Piece Adjustable SUP Paddle for Racing, Fitness & Touring
$375.00
Nexus 3-piece Adj.
Smooth & Responsive – The 3-Piece SUP Paddle for Racing, Fitness & Touring, c/w Bag
$425.00
Jump to Guide for:
Racing & Touring
SUP Foil
Recreational
Not Sure Which Shaft Is Right For You?
Contact us for personalized recommendations based on your paddling goals, body weight, and experience level.
<< Previous Step
Step #2 – Finding the Right Blade Size for You
Next Step >>
Step #4 – Selecting a Handle For Comfort and Control
Frequently Asked Questions
We have collated some of the most frequently asked questions about paddles. If your question is not covered, on this page, in the 5-step guide or in these FAQs, you are encouraged to reach out to us for a personal consultation or support.
Thanks to our innovative designs, quality manufacturing and attention to detail, our paddles have a very low failure rate. For your peace of mine, we have a standard 1-year warranty to cover faulty manufacturing. Thanks to hot glue assembly it is possible to replace any damaged parts. If you feel that you have an issue which you feel should be covered, please contact us for support.
We want you to be 100% satisfied with your new paddle. If something goes wrong, we are here to help resolve any issues in a fast and effective manner. Please contact us for support.
We ship to all 50 U.S. states and worldwide directly from Maui, Hawaii.
Every order is sent via FedEx 2-Day, ensuring a fast, reliable, and hassle-free delivery experience.
Shipping costs are based on the products in your order — and you’ll only ever pay one shipping fee. For example, if you order two paddles and a fin, you’ll be charged for just one paddle shipment.
Each package is carefully prepared in Maui and delivered safely to your door, ready for your next session.
Explore shipping rates for domestic and international orders
For maximum paddling enjoyment and performance, it is extremely important to choose the right paddle for your needs. At Black Project we pride ourselves in providing first class support and offer you a 1:1 paddle consultation via email, text, phone, or in person at our Maui workshop.
Ask a questions and arrange a consultation
Yes, if your local SUP store is an official Black Project retail partner they will be able to arrange your new paddle. If they are not currently one of our retailers you can either buy online or ask them to get in contact with us.
Refer to our Dealer Locator Map to find your closest store.
Paddle length paddle depends on your height, the type of standup paddling you are doing and the board you use. The correct length will protect your body against injury and maximize your performance. For recreational paddling and inflatables your paddle will be longer while for SUP surfing paddlers use shorter paddles. Use our paddle length guide to determine the correct length. Refer to the paddle specific guides on each product page.
Get your paddle length
Yes, our 1-piece paddles are assembled with hot glue. You can heat up the shaft just below the handle to remove it, and then shorten the shaft. We have a number of guides on our YouTube channel which explain the process. Be sure to use quality extra-strength, high temp, hot glue and not hobby grade glue. This is particularly useful if you move to different board or change focus.
How to correctly measure paddle length
How to shorten your paddle
We offer paddles for all types of standup paddling, racing, touring, foiling, surfing, and all-round recreation. Finding the right paddle which best fits your needs in terms of performance, price and preference is extremely important. Check out our guide to determine which paddle is best for you.
Choosing the right paddle for your experience, budget, and needs
Blade size depends on paddler weight, height, the type of standup paddling you are doing and any prior medical issues. Bigger blades offer more power and are suited to heavier paddlers while smaller paddler will want to select a much smaller blade size. Many paddlers are using the wrong size blade and that is reducing their enjoyment of the sport. Use our blade size guide to determine the correct size for you.
Find the correct size blade for your weight
All Black Project paddles have carbon reinforced edges and can withstand a good amount of abuse. The use of protective tape is not needed for general consumer use.
All Athlete Series and Ultimate Series paddles, as well as our 3-piece travel paddles, are supplied complete with a Black Project Paddle Bag unless otherwise stated. Some models are supplied without a bag. For example, the FoilX does not include a paddle bag. Bag inclusion is clearly shown on each product page. Black Project Paddle Bags can also be purchased separately. Some US and international retailers may offer paddles without a bag at an adjusted price. We strongly recommend protecting your paddle with a quality padded bag, ideally a Black Project Paddle Bag.
View Paddle Bag
View 3-Piece Paddle Bag
Paddles are very expensive to design, produce and ship, hence the price which you pay for your Black Project paddle is extremely reasonable. We have cut out a number of business layers and work directly with customers and smaller independent retailers to ensure that markups are reasonable. If we operated a more traditional business structure paddles would be 50-100% more expensive. Standup paddling is a small sport so it is hard to produce enough units to benefit from mass production and gain significant economies of scale.
Yes, our componentized paddle system enables you to swap or replace parts. If you decide that you want to change blade, shaft, or handle, due to preferences or damage, thanks to our hot glue assembly, this is possible and saves you needing to buy a completely new paddle. This is especially important for SUP foiling.
SUP paddles are not one-size-fits-all, and different factors come into play when determining the ideal paddle length. That’s why many of our SUP paddles offer a wide 30cm (12 inches) range of non-twist adjustment. This means you can easily adjust the paddle length to suit your height, paddle board, water conditions, and paddling style. Whether you prefer a shorter paddle for your SUP surfing sessions or a longer paddle length for relaxed touring, our adjustable paddle options have you and your Ohana (family) covered. Toggle Content
Absolutely! As part of our commitment to exceptional service, we provide a free personal consultation with Chris Freeman, a renowned expert in the SUP industry. Chris, with his extensive knowledge and expertise, will personally guide you through the process of selecting the perfect paddle and fin based on your height, paddling style, and preferences. At Black Project SUP, we believe in going the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction and success on the water. Don’t miss out on this invaluable opportunity – contact us today to schedule your free personal consultation with Chris Freeman.
Recommended Paddle Resources
Black Project Unscripted Ep.2 | SurfGrip vs PowerGrip, Fins, TourCarbon Shafts & 3-Piece Paddles
Black Project Unscripted Ep.1 | Fixed vs Adjustable + Paddle Setup & Shipping
Introducing Black Project Unscripted Video Series: Your Paddling Questions—Answered
Introducing the Ultimate Series: Redefining Paddle Construction
The Black Project Three-Tier Concept: A Clear Pathway to Performance
Built to Evolve: Why Black Project Uses Hot Glue Paddle Assembly
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