Kialoa Keone

Aloha Everyone,

Has anyone used this paddle before?

I've used Kialoa hybrid paddles for sometimes now and really like the feel of their paddles in my hands and the dynamics in the water. I'm looking for a new paddle specifically for oc-1 paddling and would like to go for with Keone. But before I make my final decision I would like to know if anyone has any feedback about this paddle or know of other good paddles for oc-1s.

Much appreciated!

Submitted by mishka on Tue, 05/23/2006 - 8:35am



I've never tried the Keone, but the only one I've ever seen up close seemed pretty heavy for an all-carbon blade. It might've just been an early production model, or maybe there was some other issue unique to that one blade. Generally, I like Kialoa's (I've got two Axels in different sizes) and if I was buying a new blade this year would definitely check out the Axel II.

The blade on the Keone looks like any other Axel, which I think would mean it'll work like it's supposed to. That is, get planted easily and early, and allow you a good rip through your stroke. The Axel doesn't have a huge lip (I'm thinking old-style Quick Blade here) so it's more forgiving of a late release (not that anyone here would release late!).

If you're looking for an alternative, I use a Zaveral on the OC1and really like it. You should be aware, though, that some people find the Zaveral "too stiff," and the Kialoa advertises some flex to overcome this supposed issue with all-carbon blades.

Although I know alot of people - whose opinions I totally respect - who describe this stiffness as a problem, it's something I've never noticed. I think the "give," of the water itself is all the shock damping you need. It ain't like you're planting your blade in cement 60 times a minute. But you'll really have to decide for yourself.


#1 Tue, 05/23/2006 - 1:11pm


I also am very partial to Kialoa blades, haing used them almost exclusivley for about 10 years. Well designed and very well made, only 1 problem in maybe 20 purchases and that was exchanged, no questions asked other than what happened..super easy to deal with and very prompt and reliable responses. I called a while ago to order 2 new paddles for me and my wife and Meg 'sold' me on the new Keone. I got 1 sized for my OC1 and I think it is the nicest balde for open water I ever had. It's not a sprint paddle(I agree the Zre works well for that), but for distance runs outside and long days, its da bomb!!


#2 Tue, 05/23/2006 - 7:28pm


Please register or login to post a comment.

Page loaded in 0.170 seconds.