CUSTOMIZATION
Many of our blade models can be made using a selection of materials, and matched with a shaft of your choosing. Paddle lengths can be sized to the paddler’s preference, from 205cm to 245cm (or longer depending of models) for touring paddles, and 188cm to 204cm for whitewater.
BLADES
OUR BLADES ARE HAND MADE, LAYER BY LAYER, FROM HIGH QUALITY FABRICS AND MATERIALS. WE FOCUS ON MINIMIZING WEIGHT WHILE MAXIMIZING STRENGTH. MOST NIMBUS BLADES ARE OFFERED IN THESE MATERIALS.
The Basalt/Carbon (B/C) paddle blades are unique to anything offered on the market today. The internal layers of carbon fiber bring these blades down to nearly the same weight as a full carbon blade, making the paddling experience a breeze, but what makes it so unique is the external layer.
The first thing an onlooker will notice is the deep black from the carbon fiber showing through, coupled with a golden sheen produced from the basalt. What you don’t see can be felt; a spring at the end of every stroke, from the flexibility similar to a glass blade. The basalt is also added to the exterior for its durability. Like fiberglass, it can handle itself better on rocks, making it a favourite with guides. Being more inexpensive than full carbon means you also save on cost!
With its strength to weight ratio, Carbon Fiber is the most preferred material used in our kayak paddles.
Its extreme light-weight properties make it ideal for long distance paddling. Why waste your energy carrying excess weight, when it can be better invested in your stroke.
Other than minimal weight, the other benefit for many paddlers is in the stiffness of carbon fiber. Being very rigid, it holds its shape under pressure, giving a much more responsive and confident stroke.
Our Fiberglass blades are the most recognizable among our paddles, as they are the most popular of our fleet. Often seen being used by tour companies and outfitters for its durability, strength, and low cost when combined with a fiberglass shaft.
While being an inexpensive option, many paddlers prefer the attributes of fiberglass. Its flexibility and strength make it one of the most durable and reliable materials offered in a paddle, and handle rough waters and rocky shorelines better than most other materials.
It comes in solid white, making it highly visible from a distance, or when dropped in the water.
SHAFTS
OUR SHAFTS ARE MADE IN THE NIMBUS SHOP, BY HAND. WE MAKE EVERY PIECE EACH STEP OF THE WAY, ENSURING THE HIGHEST OF QUALITY AND STRENGTH.
We currently offer 2 different shafts in either carbon fiber or fiberglass. Each one has an oval grip for a more natural and comfortable feel in hand. Depending on models, they are available in one, two, and four piece paddles.
CARBON FIBER:
Nimbus carbon shafts have an external layer of carbon fiber giving the shaft more stiffness, a greatly reduced weight, and is reinforced for strength with an internal layer of fiberglass. Its low weight goes well with long paddle excursions, and for those looking to limit weight as much as possible.
FIBERGLASS:
Besides its lower price-point, many paddlers prefer the characteristics and benefits of fiberglass. It makes up for a slightly higher weight with its toughness and durability compared to other materials. Its flexibility adds to the shaft’s strength and is an aspect many prefer when paddling turbulent coastlines and rivers.
OUR FERRULES:
Nimbus paddles come standard with a breakdown two-piece shaft, as they are preferred for storage, transport, and for use as a spare paddle. They come standard with a 0° position, as well as a left and right handed feather (at 60° respectively). However, many paddlers may have become accustomed to a single feather angle (like 45°) suited to them, and in that case we can provide a custom feather.
From years of our own personal paddling experience, as well as the input of countless professionals and enthusiasts, we know to keep our design simple. No gimmicks like adjustable ferrule lengths or angles; which we feel would unnecessarily add weight, a weak point, and guess-work to our premium paddles.
We know you prefer a simple, strong, and reliable ferrule, and that’s what we provide!
Whether you prefer switching from 0° to 60° on the fly, or maintain the same feather angle at all times, our shafts deliver. No up-selling.
We can also produce custom shaft diameters and lengths for other applications, as well as carbon and glass ferrule ends for wooden shafts. Let us know what you’re looking for!