Nexus SUP Racing Paddle
Nexus
Black Project // Nexus // Sup Racing Paddle
“A paddle that adapts as conditions, pace, and technique evolve”
Nexus
SUP Paddle For Middle & Long-distance SUP Racing
The Nexus is designed for middle- and long-distance SUP racing and sits within our Dihedral performance pathway. Its 12° blade angle and high-aspect blade profile create a buttery smooth catch, with power building progressively through the stroke for an adaptable feel that rewards changes in technique, cadence, and stroke. For paddlers who generate speed through greater core engagement and more precise technique, the Nexus offers greater control over how and when power is delivered. Available in Ultimate, Athlete, and Element Series.
Key Paddle Highlights
- Designed for middle- and long-distance racing.
- HIgh 12° blade angle for an easy, efficient catch.
- Progressive Dihedral blade shaping for dynamic feel.
- Power Ridge for increased strength & responsiveness.
- Reduced blade volume for lower weight & higher cadence.
- PowerGrip handle for comfort & control.
- Precision CNC blade core increases performance & durability.
- 1-piece, 2-piece adjustable & 3-piece options.
- Available Ultimate, Athlete, and Element Series.
Why Choose This Paddle?
Smooth, quiet and highly adaptable, Nexus is built for racers who want a paddle that responds to technique rather than locking them into one style of power delivery. Its high-aspect blade, refined narrow toe and 12° blade angle create a buttery smooth entry, while the Dihedral profile allows pressure to build progressively through the stroke.
The blade’s two-zone response gives paddlers greater freedom to vary how they apply power. Paddle efficiently while drafting or recovering, then progressively engage more of the blade as pace, cadence and effort increase. This makes Nexus especially effective in dynamic racing where speed, rhythm and technique are constantly changing.
Available in Ultimate, Athlete and Element Series, Nexus brings the same precision-focused blade concept to three distinct performance levels, allowing paddlers to choose the construction and shaft characteristics that best match their needs.
The PowerGrip ergonomic racing handle provides a secure connection for precise blade control while remaining comfortable through long training sessions and races.
Available in five blade sizes from XS to XL, with 1-piece configurations in Ultimate and Athlete Series and FUSION adjustable and 3-piece options in Element Series, Nexus can be configured for a wide range of racing styles and paddlers.
Sizes:
Best For:
Middle- and Long-Distance Racing, Fitness, Touring, and Long Distance Paddling
Explore: Blade Sizing | Paddle Length | Compare | Reviews | FAQs | BUILD YOUR PADDLE
Paddle Technology & Features
REDUCED BLADE VOLUME (RBVT) AND POWER RIDGE (PRT)
- Reduced blade volume reduced weight.
- Reduced blade volume reduces blade buoyancy and promotes higher cadence.
- Power Ridges enable precise control over blade flex.
- When combined these features promote a consistent and efficient stroke.
SCOOPED DIHEDRAL BLADE TECHNOLOGY (SDBT)
- Dihedral shaping creates a lively paddle feel.
- Scooped Dihedral holds water effectively while providing release.
- Promotes high cadence and quick responses.
TOUR CARBON 30T OVAL TAPER SHAFT
- Doubled tapered design with high kick flex profile.
- Narrow round upper section increases flex and protects shoulders from injury.
- Middle oval section enhances comfort, grip and blade control.
- Round lower section increases power output.
- Four variations of taper design to suit all paddlers.
- Twelve shaft stiffness options from 45 to 100.
- Textured finish increases grip while being gentle on the hands.
- 30T pre-preg carbon construction produces excellent performance, very low weight, and a near-zero failure rate.
- The most technologically advanced paddle shaft ever made.
POWER GRIP HANDLE
- Ergonomic design.
- Long lasting comfort for racing and touring.
- Improved connection between hand and paddle increases power.
- Hollow pre-prep carbon construction for reduced weight.
React+ Technology (RE+T)
- Two external 30T carbon plates.
- RE+T tuned for each blade size, ensuring optimal flex tailored to paddler size.
- Amplifies blade power, responsiveness and energy return.
- Improves blades stiffness/weight ratio.
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.
HIGH 12° BLADE ANGLE
- Promotes smoother blade entry.
- Helps you to maintain a clean catch as fatigue sets in.
- Ideally suited for medium and long-distance paddling.
FIVE BLADE SIZES
Widened size range from 72 in² up to 99 in² provides a comprehensive coverage and optimized sizing for all paddlers of all sizes and all ages.
- Extra-Large: 627cm² / 99 in² | For 90 - 110 kg / 200 - 245 lbs
- Large: 582cm² / 90 in² | For 80 - 100 kg / 175 - 220 lbs
- Medium: 540cm² / 84 in² | For 70 - 90 kg / 155 - 200 lbs
- Small: 502cm² / 78 in² | For 60 - 80 kg / 130 - 175 lbs
- Extra-Small: 466cm² / 72 in² | For 50 - 70 kg / 110 - 155 lbs
THE LIGHTEST RACE PADDLE
- All unnecessary weight removed.
- Reduced weight translates into improved paddling experience.
- Reduced weight is good for your body.
Built To Race
The Nexus was designed to meet the demands of middle and long-distance paddling for racers who value speed and adaptability in equal measure. Not locked into a single stroke style or power band, Nexus responds to light, efficient strokes as readily as committed efforts, allowing athletes to vary cadence, load, and technique as race conditions evolve. With a stroke-sensitive, responsive feel, it rewards precision over brute force, enabling paddlers to draft, sprint, or actively recover while maintaining speed. Developed to capture the feel of traditional paddles while embracing a new era of materials and technology — the Nexus is that paddle.
Scooped Dihedral Blade Technology (SDBT)
The Nexus incorporates our Scooped Dihedral Blade Technology (SDBT) which holds water securely through the power phase, eliminating lateral movement and delivering force in a smooth, efficient manner. The concave design of the two sides of the dihedral increases power output. The Nexus blade is predictable, smooth, quiet, and efficient, encouraging the use of smaller sizes.
Power Ridge & Reduced Blade Volume
The distinctive Nexus blade combines Power Ridge Technology (PRT) with Reduced Blade Volume Technology (RBVT) to create a strong, lightweight and highly responsive blade. Reduced blade mass makes the paddle faster to recover and reposition, promoting a quicker stroke cycle and higher cadence, while the Power Ridge provides the strength and structure needed when the blade is fully loaded.
High Aspect Blade & Two-Zone Response
The high-aspect Nexus blade is longer and narrower, with reduced toe area, a 12° blade angle and a relatively flat entry that create a clean, buttery smooth catch. The progressive dihedral then builds through the blade, increasing engagement as the stroke develops. Together, the high-aspect outline, reduced toe area, blade angle and progressive dihedral create the distinctive two-zone feel of Nexus. When drafting or conserving energy, the paddler can use a lighter, more economical stroke. As pace and effort increase, more of the blade can be engaged to build power progressively through the stroke. This gives Nexus an adaptable feel that rewards changes in technique, cadence and stroke, rather than locking the paddler into a single power profile.
Comfort and Control with Every Stroke
The PowerGrip is designed to provide a secure, precise connection to the paddle while remaining comfortable during long races and training sessions. Developed in collaboration with world champion Arthur Arutkin and Maui waterman Bernd Roediger, its wider, flatter back sits securely in the hand and helps maintain control during high-cadence efforts. Like all our handles, PowerGrip uses a hollow construction to eliminate unnecessary weight.
One Paddle. Three Series.
he Nexus blade concept is available across Ultimate, Athlete and Element Series, allowing more paddlers to choose the same technique-driven performance philosophy at the level that best suits their goals. Ultimate delivers the lightest and most responsive Nexus experience, Athlete offers elite-level performance with a slightly different balance of weight, flex and feel, while Element brings the Nexus blade design into adjustable and 3-piece configurations for greater versatility. Different constructions and shaft characteristics, but the same adaptable Nexus approach to power, precision and control.
BUILT TO RACE
The Nexus was designed to meet the demands of middle and long-distance paddling for racers who value speed and adaptability in equal measure. Not locked into a single stroke style or power band, Nexus responds to light, efficient strokes as readily as committed efforts, allowing athletes to vary cadence, load, and technique as race conditions evolve. With a stroke-sensitive, responsive feel, it rewards precision over brute force, enabling paddlers to draft, sprint, or actively recover while maintaining speed. Developed to capture the feel of traditional paddles while embracing a new era of materials and technology — the Nexus is that paddle.
Moderate 10°
blade Angle
The Hydro SynergyX has a moderate 10° blade angle results an easier catch, with a smooth paddle entry, slightly more forgiving feel, and increased comfort for longer distances.
Moderate Power Scoop
(MPS) Technology
The Hydro SynergyX features a moderate scoop design with dihedral shaped edges. This has been optimized for medium to high cadence paddling, delivering power in a smooth and controlled manner.
Advanced Flow
technology (AFT)
A completely reimagined design concept for SUP paddles, the AFT significantly increase efficiency by reducing turbulence and unwanted blade movements. This is a feature used in all our Hydro paddles.
REACT + (RE +T)
technology
The latest SUP paddle innovation is our REACT+ Technology (RE+T). This incorporates two external 30T unidirectional carbon plates, amplifying blade power, responsiveness, and energy return.
30T Carbon
construction
The 30T carbon construction reduces weight and increases responsiveness of the paddle. This enables us to optimize the internal layers and build an even more durable paddle.
Precision
CNC Blade Core
The paddle is molded from layers of pre-preg carbon with a lightweight high density CNC foam core. This internal precision improves laminate adhesion increasing the longevity of your investment in a quality paddle.
"Buttery Smooth Entry & Perfectly Quiet"
Nexus
Customer Reviews
Review 1
Comments 1
Name P.
SUP Racer (US)
Review 1
Comments 1
Name P.
SUP Racer (US)
Review 1
Comments 1
Name P.
SUP Racer (UK)
Specifications & Paddle Sizing
We don’t think you need to be an expert paddler to enjoy the benefits of a custom paddle. In fact, it’s why we offer the Nexus in five blade sizes and a range of shaft customization options to best suit your specific paddling needs. Choosing the right paddle might seem daunting at first, but don’t worry, we made it easy to identify which is the best option for your optimal paddling experience.
Shaft Stiffness
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.
SUP Paddle Length Guide For Racing
This table is not designed to be a one-size-fits-all solution, and recommended paddle lengths may vary by approximately 1″ (2.5cm) depending on the paddler’s preference. For sprint and short distance paddling a shorter paddle will be more effective. Longer paddles are preferable for greater paddling distances. Remember, it is easier to cut your paddle down than to glue on more shaft (especially with our hot glue construction), so we err on the side of caution by recommending the longer end of the spectrum.
Compare SUP Paddles For Racing
What began as Project-X to celebrate our 10th anniversary has evolved into a full collection of innovative paddles, designed to meet the needs of the diverse SUP paddling and foiling community. The original Hydro FlowX was replaced with the Hydro SynergyX which is complemented by the Hydro SprintX and Hydro TempoX. Explore our collection of racing, touring and fitness orientated carbon sup paddles to find which one is best for you – Which Hydro?
5-step Guide To Choosing your New Sup Paddle.
Learn About Types Of Paddles, Blade Size, Shaft Options, Handles & Paddle Length So That You Can Confidently Choose & Customize Your New Paddle.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have collated some of the most frequently asked questions about SUP racing, touring and fitness, and the Hydro SynergyX paddle in specific. 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.
Bt far the most popular size of blade is the Medium which is 549cm² / 85 in². This is what the majority of our athletes use. Be sure to refer to sizing table to select the right size for your weight.
Existing customers – Yes, despite the actual blade sizes increasing when compared to the Hydro FlowX paddle, you should still select the same size for your new paddle, e.g. if you were happy with a Medium Hydro FlowX (with Medium75 shaft), you should order a Medium Hydro SynergyX paddle (probably with a Tour Carbon 70 shaft). If you Medium Hydro FlowX blade felt a little too small then consider the Large blade when upgrading to the Hydro SynergyX paddle.
New customers – If you are upgrading from another brand of paddle, try to ignore the numbers and focus on the size rating e.g. Medium which is recommended for your weight.
Always refer to our size guides and contact us if you have any questions.
The Tour Carbon 70 shaft is the most popular option, this is a medium range stiffness shaft which suits a wide range of paddlers, it is similar in feel to our older model Medium75 shafts. Taller paddlers with longer paddle lengths should use the Tour Carbon 65 shaft. Heavier paddlers should consider the 45 or 50 shafts while smaller paddlers are advised to order the 90 or even 100 shaft. The most popular shafts for each blade size are detailed below. Refer to the shaft selection table and contact us if you have any questions.
- XL with 45 or 50
- Large with 65 or 70
- Medium with 70 (most popular shaft and blade combination)
- Small with 70 or 90
- XS with 100
The Tour Carbon 45 and 65 shafts are better for longer paddles while the 50, 70, 90, & 100 are optimized for shorter paddle lengths.
No. While we have different shaft diameter shafts and PowerGrip variations to match each shaft, the actual main dimensions of our award winning PowerGrip handle are the same. We worked hard during testing to ensure that the PowerGrip is comfortable for big hands, small hands, and all hands.
When ordering via our website the Hydro SynergyX paddle is supplied complete with our Paddle Bag, it is not a free bag and some US and international retailers do sell the paddle without the bag at an adjusted price. We strongly recommend that you protect your investment with a quality padded bag, ideally a Black Project one.
Yes, our Hydro SynergyX paddles are assembled with hot glue and you can heat up the shaft below the handle to remove and 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.
No – the Hydro SynergyX paddles are meant to be enjoyed as we intended them, in their very best/lightest form i.e., 1-piece (or 3-piece). If you are looking for a high quality and performance orientated adjustable paddle, then consider the Hydro TempoX. If you still think you want the Hydro SynergyX experience but are not sure about length, please check the paddle length guide and if that doesn’t help please contact us.
No – the Hydro SynergyX paddles are meant to be enjoyed as we intended them, in their very best/lightest form i.e., 1-piece (or 3-piece). If you are looking for a high quality and performance orientated adjustable paddle, then consider the Hydro TempoX. If you still think you want the Hydro SynergyX experience but are not sure about length, please check the paddle length guide and if that doesn’t help please contact us.
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
Performance Shaped by Technique and Intent
Nexus Community
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