I’ve been a part of Core Paddles since its early days. The idea was to push the boundaries of material and process technologies to make the best paddles possible. When I say best, I mean: the strongest, lightest, most powerful, most ergonomic, least blade flutter, etc… When designing paddles the list of attributes that you strive for is quite high. In the end Steve Horvath has once again taken paddle technology and performance to a whole new level. The Core Kirri whitewater paddle is the pinnacle of this effort.
EE Exclusive Offer:
$25 off on all direct Core Paddle purchases
Use coupon code “Exploring Elements” at checkout HERE
My Experience with the Kirri:
I’ve been using a Core Kirri WW paddle for about 3 yrs now and have to say that I was instantly hooked the moment I got the paddle wet. I’ve used the paddle for surf kayaking, creeking, playboating and even sea kayaking in the surf zone. The neutral bent shaft design is the only way to go in my opinion. It is the only style shaft that helps me take care of my beat up shoulders and elbows. The paddle feels lively, while still being stiff, and is always easy to control. The grips allow you to never think about where your hands should be or what the orientation of the blade is in, all of this just comes naturally as your hand surrounds the indexed grip. The blades have a ton of initial power and are extremely efficient at draw and rudder strokes. The thin foam core blade design allows for a buoyant feel while still being extremely clean through the water in all orientations. I’m also extremely happy about the durability of these paddles. You get a feather weight performance paddle that can take a beating and keep on going. I used to wear down a set of carbon blades per year when I paddled sticks from another company, but the Core blades have worn down at a much slower rate. You also won’t experience any shaft failures with a Core paddle due to the one piece construction, the only 1 piece (no center joint) bent shaft paddle on the market, and extremely tough Easton 7075-T7 aerospace aluminum shaft material. All of these great features combine to make one hell of a whitewater paddle. Some of the best paddlers in the world have chosen Core Paddles to get them through the most difficult rapids on the planet. The performance and reliability you get with a Core Kirri paddle is why top pros and general paddlers like myself will continue to be loyal to the brand.
Core Kirri WW Paddle Specs:
MSRP: Bent $450 and Straight $350 (SAVE $25 using code “Exploring Elements” HERE)
Blade: Foam Core Carbon Composite
Shaft: One Piece Easton 7075-T7 Neutral Bent or Straight with Overmolded Grips
Feather Angle: 12 or 30 Degree
Weight: Bent: 1010gms, Straight: 950gms
Reasons why you want a Core Kirri Paddle:
-Arbuably the lightest AND strongest ww paddle you can buy. See why HERE.
-Company is owned by paddlers, paddlers assemble the paddles and paddlers answer your inquiries.
-Completely North American made. Materials are sourced here, tools are made here, parts are manufactured here and paddles are assembled here.
-Your really not going to break a shaft on a Core Paddle. You can wear down or break a blade, which is then easily replaced on the old shaft. Meaning a cheaper “new” paddle for you and less waste going into the landfill.
EE Exclusive Offer:
$25 off on all direct Core Paddle purchases
Use coupon code “Exploring Elements” at checkout HERE
(Full Disclaimer: I am a founder of Core Paddles and recently sold off my shares in the company. I am currently a Core Paddles on water team member and still close friends with the current owners. I will receive a commission on any paddles sold using the EE discount code. This type of partnership is what I look for in order to keep this website going and get great deals on quality products for my readers.)
