In the past I have only used cheap hand me down wood bent shaft paddles or been outfitted Wenonah Prolite Elbow paddles. Was thinking of using REI dividend (posted online today!) and a 20% off coupon on the Bending Branches Espresso bent shaft. With a gift card this would not cost me anything out of pocket.

However, would I be happy with a 14* wood paddle? I think the Wenonah is a 10*, who knows on my hand me down. Is the BB as durable as the prolite? Not hard on my paddles that I know of but would worry if it is too fragile. BB espresso weighs 18oz, Wenonahs a couple 13-14oz.

Should I just save up and get a Wenonah blacklite or prolite (have used the pro and liked it)? Save a long time and get a Blackjack or ZRE (never used either)? Whatever I buy will be my new primary solo BWCA paddle. Any opinions?

I have had the Winona carbon fiber 15 oz for several years now and have used it for fishing and tripping. Just got the wife hers this past Christmas, love them. I would suggest if you can however a paddle test where you can actually try before you buy. All you mentioned are great paddles, but only you can decide the best one for you, and that is best done on the water. Some suppliers of canoes and paddles have them periodically.

P.S. I doubt you would be unhappy with any of them.

You will be extremely happy with this paddle. Beautiful , light, and well made. You can't go wrong.

Make one. I like Sawyer paddles a lot and visit their factory in Oregon every once in ahwile for blemished paddles.

We have Bending Branches, one bent and one straight shaft. We also have a carbon fiber Winona paddle, we like it but not nearly as durable when you are in shallower areas with rocks.

Thanks, I think I am going to get the Bending Branches ordered to my local REI later this week, just wanted to hear from a couple happy owners. Would be nice to paddle one first but open water seems to be along ways off.

I have an Espresso straight shaft and love it. I don't care for 14 degree paddles unless I'm in the bow of a tandem. I use my straight Espresso for big water soloing and a Mitchell 7 degree for smaller water.
The Espresso is a great paddle. You just have to decide if a 14 degree is the right fit.