Lightning Paddles Inc. has an excellent discussion on paddles in the "Paddles 101" section of their web site. The link below will take you to their home page. From there click on the Paddles 101 button.

Don

: I'm looking to buy a good paddle, to replace the $30 one I've been making do
: with. I'd like to buy a wood paddle. I've seen some that say
: "spooned." Others say "dihedral." What do these terms
: mean, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?