SUP Paddle Shaft Flex Guide – Find the Right Shaft for You
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.
Relax—Don’t Stress About Shaft Flex
You don’t need to be an expert to get it right. Our flex system is designed to take the guesswork out of paddle setup. Just follow the guide, choose based on your weight and style, and trust that we’ve already tuned the feel for your discipline.
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)
Lightest and stiffest option—ideal for paddlers who want maximum performance and efficiency.
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.
3-Piece Adjustable
Our 3-piece shafts feature a precision fit HEX join design with push pin assembly, this offers secure fitting and both a 1-piece paddling experience and clean look without bulky clamps. This sleek design also saves weight and only adds 50 grams (1.77 oz), well worth it for the convivence. Both our Quest and Apex shafts are available in this option. All our 3-piece paddles also come with our premium 3-piece travel bag which stores your paddle and is ready for travel.
3-Piece Fixed (Custom built to Fit)
Innovative solution offering fixed paddle feel in a travel-ready 3-piece build.
Shaft Flex, Simplified.
Our flex ratings make it easy to find the right balance of stiffness and comfort—matched to your weight, paddle length, and paddling style. More power when you need it, more forgiveness when you don’t.
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.
If your paddle shaft is too stiff, you may notice some or all these symptoms:
- Sore shoulders – Excess strain from overpowering each stroke.
- Back Pain – Increased load on your lower back due to extra resistance.
- Rapid Fatigue – Wasting energy by working harder than necessary.
- Difficulty Maintaining a High Cadence – Too much resistance slows your stroke rate.
- Post-Paddling Pain – Shoulder and back soreness after paddling or the next day.
Is Your Paddle Shaft Too Soft? Signs to Watch For.
If your paddle blade is too big, you may experience these common issues:
- Decreased Top Speed – More flexible shafts generate less power per stroke, limiting speed.
- Lack of Acceleration – Harder to generate quick bursts of speed when sprinting or catching waves.
- Lack of Overall Stroke Power – Feels like you're not getting enough drive with each stroke.
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:
- Optimized Speed & Acceleration – Generates the perfect balance of power and efficiency.
- Reduced Fatigue – Maximizes endurance so you can paddle longer with less effort.
- Smooth & Controlled Strokes – Feels natural and balanced in all conditions.
- Better Shoulder & Joint Health – Minimizes strain, helping prevent soreness or injury.
- Improved Cadence & Stroke Rate – Lets you maintain a strong, sustainable rhythm.
- Enhanced Overall Paddling Experience – Makes every session more enjoyable and efficient.
What Do Black Project Shaft Flex Ratings Mean?
Each shaft is labeled with a flex rating. Higher numbers indicate more flex, while lower numbers mean the shaft is stiffer. Our rating system ranges from 45 (very stiff) to 105 (most flexible).
- Stiffer shafts (e.g., 45–50) – Delivers maximum power and acceleration—ideal for sprinting and foil.
- Moderate flex (e.g., 65–80) – A balanced feel for performance and longer distance comfort and efficiency.
- More flex (e.g., 85–105) – Adds comfort and feel for surfing or lighter paddlers.
Paddle Shaft Shape Types and Terminology
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.
Lightweight. Responsive. Tuned for Excellence.
The Tour Carbon shaft is the hallmark of Black Project’s paddle collection. Featuring a double-tapered oval design and world-leading Japanese Toray carbon construction, it delivers exceptional power, lightweight responsiveness, and a precise feel with every stroke
Tour Carbon
Engineered with a double tapered round-oval-round design, the Tour Carbon shaft maximizes stiffness in the lower section, delivering stability and optimizing power transfer to the blade. The upper section has a thinner and more flexible round profile, minimizing fatigue. The oval-shaped middle-grip area has a natural carbon-textured matte finish ensuring a directional feel with a secure and relaxed grip. Constructed with 30T pre-preg carbon laminates for reduced weight and increased paddling power. With a range of options there’s a perfect fit for every enthusiast across the entire spectrum of paddlers.
- Toray 30T Premium Carbon – Lightweight and responsive for elite-level performance using T800 fibers.
- Double-Tapered Design – Maximizes stiffness and power transfer in the lower section, while reducing fatigue in the upper section.
- Natural Carbon Finish – Textured matter raw carbon finish for comfort and grip.
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.
- Toray 30T Premium Carbon – Lightweight and responsive for elite-level performance using T800 fibers.
- Two Diameter Options –29mm and 26mm to suit different hand sizes and grip preferences.
- Natural Carbon Finish – Textured matter raw carbon finish for comfort and grip.
Quest Carbon
The Quest carbon shafts feature 24T pre-preg carbon laminates for reduced weight, excellent flex characteristics, and increased durability. The natural carbon-textured matte finish ensures a secure and relaxed grip. With a range of stiffnesses and both round 29mm and 26mm straight round options there’s a perfect fit for every enthusiast across the entire spectrum of paddlers. A high-performance option that’ll last for many seasons.
- Toray 24T Carbon – Lightweight and responsive for high-level performance using T700 fibers.
- Two Diameter Options –29mm and 26mm to suit different hand sizes and grip preferences.
- Natural Carbon Finish – Textured matter raw carbon finish for comfort and grip.
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
Your weight directly affects how much load you place on the paddle shaft. Heavier paddlers need stiffer shafts to avoid flex loss and maintain power transfer. Lighter paddlers can use more flexible shafts for a smoother feel and less strain. Our flex rating system ensures the right balance across body types and paddling goals.
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?
Different disciplines demand different flex profiles. Racers and foilers benefit from stiffer shafts for power and acceleration. Touring paddlers often prefer moderate flex for long-distance comfort. Surfers gain better feel and rebound from softer shafts tuned for flow and agility.
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
Paddle pricing reflects the materials and complexity of the build. Round shafts with lower-grade carbon are more affordable. High-performance paddles use premium carbon and oval/tapered designs for better power, lower weight, and increased comfort. You get what you pay for—especially with performance.
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
A more flexible shaft can make a big difference—especially on longer sessions or for paddlers managing injuries. By absorbing shock and softening each stroke, flex reduces strain on your joints without sacrificing performance. Smooth, efficient, and easier on your body.
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.
Shop SUP Race and Touring Paddles
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Hydro SprintX
$650.00 -
Hydro SynergyX
$650.00
SUP Surfing Shaft Stiffness Guide (e.g Surge)
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. The recommended column is suitable for most people. If you are taller than average for your weight, consider a stiffer option and if you are shorter than average for your weight consider a more flexible paddle shaft. If you need help in selecting the right shaft flex, please view our 5-step guide, the FAQs or contact us.
Shop SUP Surfing Paddles
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Surge
$575.00 -
Surge 3-Piece
$575.00
SUP Foil Paddle Shaft Stiffness Guide (e.g. FoilX)
Selecting the correct shaft is a function of your paddle length and weight. A lower flex number relates to less flex and produces a stiffer paddle (lower flex rating). Heavier and taller paddlers will need a stiffer shaft whereas smaller and lighter paddlers need more flex (higher flex rating). Length affects stiffness, select based on your paddle height and weight. Stiffer is not always better, the right shaft for your weight and height, is the best shaft.
Shop SUP Foil Paddles
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FoilX
$575.00
Recreation and Touring Shaft Guide (e.g Hydro TempoX, and Lava)
This chart isn’t designed to be a one-size-fits-all solution, but it’s a strong guide to help you get started. For paddlers choosing the Hydro TempoX or Lava, much of the selection has been streamlined—these models are built to suit a wide range of paddlers without overcomplicating the process.
Shop Recreational and Touring Paddles
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Lava Adjustable
$350.00 -
- Out of Stock
- SUP Paddles, SUP All-Water Paddles, SUP Recreation, SUP Travel, SUP Travel Paddles, 2024-5
Lava Travel 3-Piece
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$375.00
- View Product
Lava Travel 3-Piece
$375.00 -
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Hydro TempoX Adjustable
$450.00
Not Sure Which Shaft Is Right For You?
Contact us for personalized recommendations based on your paddling goals, body weight, and experience level.
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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 from our Maui workshop via FedEx 2-Day shipping to all 50 states, we do not charge for this service. We also offer low shipping rates worldwide via FedEx International Economy.
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.
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.
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.
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.
When ordering via our website all paddles except the Lava Adjustable, are supplied complete with our Paddle Bag, bags can also be purchased separately. It is not a free bag and many US and international retailers do sell our paddles without a bag at an adjusted price. We strongly recommend that you protect your investment with a quality padded bag, ideally a Black Project one.
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.
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