Page 1 of 1
Why do some surfers use a S shaped paddle?

Posted:
Wed Jun 08, 2022 6:55 pm
by ultrakook
I've heard about it. Does it do anything?
Re: Why do some surfers use a S shaped paddle?

Posted:
Wed Jun 08, 2022 10:49 pm
by oldmansurfer
I recall reading a study on the techniques of the best swimmers in the world and it seemed like even though there’s a theoretical best technique some of the fastest swimmers don’t use that technique. Therefore their suggestion is to do what works for you. You could try paddling from point a to point b and back then try with a different technique
Re: Why do some surfers use a S shaped paddle?

Posted:
Thu Jun 09, 2022 1:51 am
by delphin
In the pool, we compared force exerted by the "pull" phase of the paddle versus the "push" or back half of the paddle...push beat pull. Takeaway? Finish your stroke strongly, pushing away the water behind you with conviction...
Re: Why do some surfers use a S shaped paddle?

Posted:
Thu Jun 09, 2022 3:54 am
by waikikikichan
So what paddle technique are you currently using, if not the “S” paddle ?
(Especially paddling into 10 foot waves.)
Re: Why do some surfers use a S shaped paddle?

Posted:
Thu Jun 09, 2022 4:59 pm
by ultrakook
waikikikichan wrote:So what paddle technique are you currently using, if not the “S” paddle ?
(Especially paddling into 10 foot waves.)
I do a paddle I kinda made up. It's a hard deep paddle past my elbow a bit and I paddle hardly until my arms are out of the water. I do it pretty fast
Re: Why do some surfers use a S shaped paddle?

Posted:
Thu Jun 09, 2022 8:24 pm
by waikikikichan
From where your hand enters the water until where it comes out of the water, does the path your hand makes deviate any between those two points ? Or it’s pretty much in a straight line ?
Re: Why do some surfers use a S shaped paddle?

Posted:
Mon Jun 13, 2022 6:04 am
by ultrakook
My paddle is basically straight
Re: Why do some surfers use a S shaped paddle?

Posted:
Mon Jun 13, 2022 9:08 am
by waikikikichan
When you paddle "straight", you are only moving water that is already moving. Your hand needs to find "new water" to push back on. That's what the "S paddle" helps to do.
Have you ever seen this wind up toy in the store ? That's how I observe people who paddle FAST and HARD yet their paddle is WEAK.