Thumb Runner Double Bladed Paddle Review

Ever head out for a lovely day of SUP on the water only to end up paddling into head winds on your way back?

If you have you will know how difficult it can be to paddle directly into the wind in rough water. Not only will you struggle with balance but it will also take a lot of effort to keep moving forward.

Thumb Runner has designed a very well thought out and versatile SUP paddle that can also be used as a kayak paddle.

This paddle has two blades. One side has a regular large nylon SUP blade.

The other end has a much leaner blade as well as an ergonomic handle that provides a comfortable grip when stand up paddling.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this double bladed paddle but was pleasantly surprised how nice it was to use in both SUP mode and in kayak mode.

VIDEO

Don’t feel like reading all the way through? Take a quick look at the Thumb Runner paddle in use. This short video will explain the main features, look and feel of the paddle.

FOR USE WHEN STANDING

In the past the double bladed paddles I have tried were a little awkward to use.

I was skeptical on how much I would enjoy using the Thumb Runner paddle based on my previous experience but was very pleased at just how nice this paddle feels and performs.

As a SUP paddle it is lightweight and efficient. The carbon reinforced handle grip feels good to hold and allows for correct placement of your hand.

The thumb rail on the back of the grip helps to guide your hand to the perfect ergonomic position and I will admit that the grip was very comfortable to hold onto.

I found it easy to get in some good power strokes with the large nylon blade.

The 100% carbon fibre shaft really keeps the weight down. This paddle only weighs 30 oz (840g) and I really noticed the lightweight design.

I love using a lighter paddle as it causes less fatigue and stress on my shoulders and overall just feels less clunky and easier to use.

FOR USE WHEN KNEELING

Why would you want to paddle on your knees? Well there are several reasons.

For one you might just get tired and want a break. Getting down on your knees can give your feet a much needed break and give you a chance to wiggle those toes.

Or you might be feeling unstable when standing, especially in choppy conditions.

I always tell new paddlers if they are feeling unsteady to paddle from a kneeling position until they feel ready to stand again.

Another good reason to kneel is if you are paddling into strong wind. Getting down lower on your board will help you stay balanced and power through the wind more efficiently.

Being able to switch to kayak mode without having to switch paddles is awesome.

You can seamlessly switch your paddling style to whichever works best for you depending on your comfort level and the environment.

FOR USE WHEN SITTING

Just as easy is to switch to sitting on your bum either directly on your board or else on a seat attached to your board.

Many SUP companies are now offering seats that secure to D-rings on the side of their boards.

Lots of people love to have the option of sitting when paddling. Using the paddle in kayak mode while sitting will help you power through more efficiently.

The Thumb Runner double bladed paddle allows you to do just that.

I found this paddle to be far better than any other double bladed paddle I have previously used.

I quite enjoyed paddling while sitting and had no trouble picking up some good speed.

Tip: When using the paddle in kayak mode it is recommended to have the rear view side facing to your rear.

SAFETY

One of the biggest advantages in my opinion to using a double bladed paddle is the safety factor.

If you are caught in strong wind and find yourself really struggling with continuing to move forward, either kneeling or sitting and paddling in kayak mode can make all the difference.

It can allow you to quickly and efficiently power through and get back to shore safely.

You will not waste time or energy having to move the paddle from one side to the other as you would with a regular SUP paddle.

Just knowing that you have the option of switching from paddling SUP style to kayak style quickly lets you feel confident that you will be able to handle any situation you find yourself in safely.

The fact that this paddle also feels great to use strictly as a SUP paddle is a real bonus.

VERSATILITY

The Thumb Runner paddle truly offers you two paddles for the price of one.

It is the ultimate multi-functional SUP paddle that offers total versatility in your paddling style.

You can stand up paddleboard then sit or kneel when tackling waves or wind.

You can also take a break from standing, give your feet a rest and not have to worry about switching paddles.

KEY ADVANTAGES

ADJUSTABLE

This paddle can be adjusted from 71″ to 85″ depending on your height and what feels comfortable.

ERGONOMIC PALM-SHAPED GRIP

I found this handle to be very comfortable. I love that it guides your hand and fingers to the correct position. This takes pressure off your wrist.

It also ensures that your paddle will never be facing the wrong way (a common issue with new paddlers!).

LIGHT WEIGHT

It weighs less than 30 oz (840g). The fact that it is so light weight allows for longer paddles with less fatigue.

FLOATS

No worries about your paddle sinking if you drop it in the water. It will float so you can safely retrieve it.

EFFICIENT

You will find this paddle provides a powerful efficient stroke when used standing and feels comfortable and easy when sitting or kneeling.

CONSTRUCTION

I love the carbon shaft and the carbon reinforced nylon blade and handle. It feels nice in your hand and I definitely appreciate the lightweight and well thought out unique design.

The large nylon blade is very durable and the 3-piece construction makes it easy to store and pack away.

It packs down to just 36” (91cm) and if you have an inflatable SUP like I do you will find that the paddle fits easily in the SUP bag.

COMPLAINTS

I try and list the pros and cons of all the products that I review but I have to say that I didn’t have many complaints with this paddle.

It has a lot of strong points. It is easy to adjust, easy to store, lightweight, well made and it’s obvious a lot of thought has gone into making a functional and design.

My only complaint – and it’s a really small one – is that I didn’t find it as easy to turn my board when using the paddle in kayak mode.

When turning with the lean blade I noticed it took more effort and my board was slower to turn.

HOWEVER this is a minor issue to be sure.

All things considered the design is fantastic and if the lean blade were any larger it would not only add more weight to the paddle but it would also be more awkward to use.

All in all it is still the best double bladed paddle I have tried.

TO SUMMARIZE

PROS:

Strong Construction
Lightweight Carbon Reinforced Handle And Blade
100% Carbon Fiber Shaft
Durable 7” Nylon Blade
Easily Adjustable
Versatile Multi-use
Comes Apart Into 3-Pieces
Easy To Store
Comfortable Ergonomic Palm Grip For Stand Up Paddling
Thumb Glide On Rear Of Palm Grip For Proper Hand Placement
Water Proof Seals Between The Blade And The Shaft
It Floats

CONS:

I found it took a little more effort to turn my board when paddling kayak-style with the lean blade.

WARRANTY

The Thumb Runner paddle is designed and made in New Zealand and comes with a 2 year warranty.

It is guaranteed against breakage under normal use for two years. It is recommended to store the paddle out of direct sunlight.

CONCLUSION

All in all I was very impressed with the Thumb Runner Double Bladed Paddle. It is well designed, functional and has some great features.

The light weight construction makes it very comfortable to use. The unique design makes it easy to switch from standing to kneeling to sitting quickly.

This is a really great multi-use paddle that will help you feel confident to paddle safely in different conditions.

I am looking forward to many great SUP adventures this year and know that I will get a lot of use out of this paddle.

Visit Thumb-Runner.com for more information. The paddles are made in New Zealand but worth noting that they offer free world wide shipping!