Care and Maintenance
Simple tips to keep your paddle investment like new...
Caring for your new paddle
If it gets dirty, simply hose it off. Wipe your paddle dry after each use. Store your paddle in a dry place. Avoid direct sunlight, temperature, and humidity extremes for extended periods of time. See below for routine maintenance tips that will help keep your paddle in great condition.
Keep in mind that Cedar is a soft wood and subject to scratches and dents. If you ordered a Cedar paddle, please, please, please use and enjoy your paddle and view these inevitable marks as “character”. However, if they become excessive, consider having epoxy tips applied.
Routine Maintenance
For Greenland Paddles and Norsaqs protected with 100% pure tung oil, from time-to-time reapplication may be necessary. The frequency of reapplication depends on use. In general, wipe your paddle down with a light coat of pure tung oil anytime the finish looks a little dry or the paddle starts to feel a little rougher than you’d like. Reapplication annually will generally be sufficient, but more won't hurt anything.
If the roughness feels excessive, your can lightly sand your paddle (400 grit or higher) prior to reapplying 100% pure tung oil. For best results, wipe or brush on a good coat of tung oil and work it into the paddle using a clean cloth. Afterwards, wipe off any excess oil. It’s best to reapply oil when you can let you paddle sit to cure for at least 5-7 days before reuse. Take care to not over-sand your paddle lest you change its basic shape.
Deeper Maintenance
If your Greenland paddle or Norsaq paddle gets banged up, scratched, or chipped , simply smooth the rough spots down with some coarse sandpaper (60-80 grit). Then lightly go over it with even finer sandpaper (120-220 grit). Don't sand excessively as you'll change the shape of your paddle. Lighter is better. Finally, reapply the 100% pure tung oil as described above in Routine Maintenance.
Safety Tips
It is good practice to always carry a spare full-size paddle whenever you go kayaking.
Secure your paddle when you are transporting it. You do not want it flying off your vehicle or worse flying inside your vehicle.
Paddles are pretty strong but use judgment when applying full body weight or pushing off obstacles using your paddle.