: Good feathered paddle technique takes practice, but so does good paddling
: technique in general. If someone just wants to go out for a nice relaxing
: paddle, they are probably not that interested in perfecting their
: technique or getting in good paddling shape, but as someone gets more
: dedicated to paddling, their technique will improve as will their physical
: conditioning and the range of conditions they may find enjoyable for
: paddling. Those people intent on doing more paddling should not dismiss
: the feathered paddle as worthless. It has advantages in many real kayaking
: conditions. Whether it is worth it for you will be a personal choice.

I agree with Nick, GOOD paddling technique is long learning process and
takes practice.

By Good, I mean understanding how to use your tool to the point that
the tool becomes part of your body and conscious thought about what to
do with it ceases.

I don't think we "White Guys" have a fart in a hurricane's understanding
of the paddling technique of native paddlers, like the Aleuts, who spent
their whole life paddling in conditions we may see once in our lives.

I don't think there is any significant windage difference between the feathered
euro paddle and the native paddle given "good technique".

If a native paddle is used with the lower stroke and "canted" technique the
blade in the air is feathered.

Can a feathered blade in the air contribute to the power of the blade in the water?

Seamen, sailors, and whitewater paddlers understand that you can use the power
of dynamic water, be it waves or current and dynamic air to your advantage.

Seamen quarter waves, sailors beat upwind, and whitewater paddlers ferry upstream,
all by taking the dynamic force of wind and water at an angle, using that power to
help them move forward, instead of taking it head on which would stop them dead
in their tracks.

Let's not waste time arguing which tool is better. All we do is confirm our choice for one
and ignorance of the other.

If we express experiences and reasons for our choices it will give others asking questions
about those choices more guidance.

If you are happy with your tool, great! If not it's nice to know you have choices.

All the best,
Rob