Review on 98 Inch Alloy Shaft Fishing Kayak Paddle With Leash For Kayaking Oar - 250CM by Thomas Taylor

PRO: The paddle has sturdy construction. No bowing/bending of the paddle during use. I was able to push off of rocks and sandy areas with no issues. The paddle blades enter/exit the water just fine. The standard pin and holes for adjusting paddle feathering works well.CON: The physical engraving technique is such that the engraving edges feel very flat when you casually hold the paddle, but under prolonged use the engraving edges/ridges rub against the skin. The position of the engraved ruler ends up underneath my fingers when I grip the paddle shaft. I used the paddle for approximately 4 hours this weekend in Class I water. By the end of that time my skin was irritated and red from the repetitive rubbing against the engraving edges/ridges. I'm going to cover the grip areas of the paddle shaft with heat shrink tubing or tape in order to minimize chaffing over prolonged periods of use. As of August 2021 the product description does state "no shaft cover is included in this item."If you've read this far and you're still on the fence, at this price a I recommend this paddle, but be ready to deal with the engraved ruler on the shaft's grip area by applying some kind of covering or by wearing gloves.