The higher the carbon content, the better the paddle, right? Well, it’s a little more complicated. Typically, paddles with a higher carbon content are more expensive, lighter and offer faster reflex characteristics. By reducing weight, this allows the paddler to experience less fatigue and be less susceptible to overuse injuries. However, building a great paddle requires much more than carbon––it also requires innovative design, sound structural integrity, and ultra-efficient hydrodynamics. In fact, poorly designed carbon paddles are often too stiff and fragile, leading to sub-par performance and a shorter lifespan of the paddle. Remember, the goal should always be to optimize the paddling experience––not marketing objectives. In this article, we will explain how Black Project engineers blend innovative paddle design with ultra-high-quality carbon, Texalium and Kevlar to build the strongest and lightest paddles on the market. Because to achieve an unparalleled paddling experience requires an unparalleled paddle construction, it is not just about