Ron, that's a thumb for high speed hitch hiking only! But, with that crook in it, they will wonder which direction you wanna go.
My thoughts are this:
1. Avoid any paddle you have to feather like the plague. It can be an advantage ONLY in a strong head wind. All other times it is a detriment. If your feather to not catch a head wind, then you will also miss the push of a tail wind. But, a side wind from either direction snatches them from yhour hands the more easily. Plus, you're having to think about which way to twist. And, in an emergency brace you're most likely to not put the paddle into the water correctly and either knife in when you expected resistance, or the opposite. These paddles solved a problem that didn't exist, and raised three that weren't there before.
2. If you sand the shaft, you will likely raise glass whiskers. Apply varnish or some such thing to fix those little daggers.
3. I've worn goatskin ropers gloves for lots of jobs. I don't prefer gloves to paddle because it interferes with the feel and touch of the paddle. My paddling is clumsy enough as it is without paying good money to make it worse.
4. Dapper Al does indeed wear gloves that Mary makes for him. They are thin and go to mid finger length only. I think it's Lycra or spandex. Email him; he'll tell you.
[email protected] "Tell'm Groucho sent ya."
5. Also, your grip on a paddle may be too tight. When I started paddling I had cramps in my forearms. No more. I learned to loosen up my grip and paddle by twisting my back with arm held in one position. Do not paddle by bending your elbows - it is more difficult, weaker, and more tiring.
