One of the best paddles i've used.. you'll pay for it though. The foam core blades with the solid feeling carbon shaft is an great asset and confidence booster on the steep creeks and just a nice tool for the rivers. Small negative i've started to notice is that there is little room for flex if needed.. aka, i've broken one and i'm that guy that tries to use his paddle as little as possible.. but, because of my love.. i bought another.. and i now carry a breakdown in every back country paddle. I'd probably prefer a carbon bentshaft with fiberglass blades to be honest.