Gear Review: Werner Sho-Gun Whitewater Kayak Paddle
Value Rating: 10
Durability Rating: 9
Overall Rating: 10
Location of Test: PNW rivers
Duration of Test: 1 year
Product Name: Sho-Gun Whitewater Paddle
Product Brand: Werner
Best Use: Whitewater Kayaking
The Full Review:
The Sho-Gun is probably the second most popular whitewater paddle in the US, right behind the Werner Powerhouse. The difference between the Sho-Gun and the Powerhouse rests in the materials they are made of. The Sho-Gun has a full carbon fiber blade with a foam core in the middle, as opposed to the powerhouse which is a 100% fiberglass blade. The blade shape and size are exactly the same. The Carbon fiber on the Sho-Gun makes it a rigid and light blade. We know that carbon fiber can be a bit less durable than fiberglass. So, for the Sho-Gun they added a Dynell edging to add some bomber durability.
Besides the added durability for the edges, the reason I bought a Sho-Gun was because of the foam core between the blades. Having a foam core in your blade means it is extra buoyant and wants to float to the top of the water quickly. A foam core blade is actually lighter while paddling because the water pushes it back into your hands. Where this comes into play is rolling, bracing, and booking. I have an easier time bracing in aerated water with my Sho-Gun and get a little extra help with my roll because of the buoyancy.
The Good:
Light
Durable
Buoyant
Makes you look like a pro
Helps with bracing and rolling
The Bad:
A bit pricey. But worth every penny if you boat often
The Bottom Line:
The Bottom Line is this paddle is used by the pros for whitewater creeking and river-running all over the world. Werner makes bomber paddles and everyone knows it. If you're looking to spend more time on the water and want to treat yourself on one piece of gear, I would for sure suggest a Werner Sho-Gun.
The Full Review:
The Sho-Gun is probably the second most popular whitewater paddle in the US, right behind the Werner Powerhouse. The difference between the Sho-Gun and the Powerhouse rests in the materials they are made of. The Sho-Gun has a full carbon fiber blade with a foam core in the middle, as opposed to the powerhouse which is a 100% fiberglass blade. The blade shape and size are exactly the same. The Carbon fiber on the Sho-Gun makes it a rigid and light blade. We know that carbon fiber can be a bit less durable than fiberglass. So, for the Sho-Gun they added a Dynell edging to add some bomber durability.
Besides the added durability for the edges, the reason I bought a Sho-Gun was because of the foam core between the blades. Having a foam core in your blade means it is extra buoyant and wants to float to the top of the water quickly. A foam core blade is actually lighter while paddling because the water pushes it back into your hands. Where this comes into play is rolling, bracing, and booking. I have an easier time bracing in aerated water with my Sho-Gun and get a little extra help with my roll because of the buoyancy.
The Good:
Light
Durable
Buoyant
Makes you look like a pro
Helps with bracing and rolling
The Bad:
A bit pricey. But worth every penny if you boat often
The Bottom Line:
The Bottom Line is this paddle is used by the pros for whitewater creeking and river-running all over the world. Werner makes bomber paddles and everyone knows it. If you're looking to spend more time on the water and want to treat yourself on one piece of gear, I would for sure suggest a Werner Sho-Gun.