Palafamala Outrigger Hybrid Paddle

Palafamala Pala High-Performance Outrigger Hybrid Paddle

Carbon & Wood Hybrid Power for OC1 and OC6 Paddlers

The Palafamala Pala Outrigger Hybrid Paddle is built for paddlers who want a strong, efficient catch with the refined feel of a handcrafted carbon and wood paddle. Designed with a longer 18.25-inch blade and multiple blade-width options, the Pala lets paddlers choose the right amount of resistance for their stroke, boat type, and paddling style. Palafamala notes that 9.25″ is commonly used for OC1, 9.75″ is commonly used for OC6, and 9.5″ is a versatile option for both.

Lightweight Strength With a Premium Hybrid Feel

Built with a carbon hybrid construction, prepreg carbon, and a premium wood combination, the Pala delivers a clean balance of lightweight responsiveness, durability, and natural feel. At an average weight of about 17 ounces, it is light enough for long training sessions, downwind paddles, and race-day efforts while still giving paddlers the blade hold needed to move the canoe efficiently. The seamless, polished finish helps the paddle enter, hold, and exit the water cleanly with less wasted movement.

Double Bend Design for Efficient Power Transfer

The Pala features Palafamala’s double bend shaft design, helping paddlers maintain a more comfortable wrist and body position through the stroke. This design supports a strong catch, smooth pull, and controlled release, making it a strong choice for intermediate and advanced paddlers who want a paddle that feels responsive without being overly harsh. Whether you are training in an OC1, racing with an OC6 crew, or looking for one paddle that can do both, the Pala offers the blade options and performance feel serious outrigger paddlers expect.

Built for Competitive Outrigger Paddling

The Pala is HCRA approved, making it suitable for competitive outrigger canoe paddling where approved equipment matters. With blade width options that let paddlers fine-tune resistance, it is a smart choice for paddlers who understand that the goal is not simply to pull the paddle backward, but to anchor the blade and pull the canoe forward. The right width depends on your strength, endurance, stroke rate, and whether you paddle OC1, OC6, or both.

Palafamala Pala Outrigger Paddle Specs

Model: Palafamala Pala Outrigger Hybrid Paddle
Construction: Carbon hybrid
Shaft: Double bend
Average Weight: 17 oz
Material: Prepreg carbon with a premium wood combination
Blade Length: 18.25″
Blade Width Options: 9.25″, 9.5″, 9.75″
Blade Angle: 11 degrees
Approval: HCRA approved
Use: OC1, OC6, training, racing, and performance outrigger paddling

Choosing the Right Pala Blade Width

Choosing blade width comes down to resistance. The wider the blade, the more hold and resistance you will feel through the stroke. The key is choosing enough blade to hold pressure without slipping, while still maintaining the strength and endurance to keep your pace.

9.25″ Blade Width
Best for OC1 paddlers or those who prefer a quicker stroke rate with slightly less resistance.

9.5″ Blade Width
A versatile middle option that works well for paddlers who move between OC1 and OC6.

9.75″ Blade Width
Often preferred for OC6 paddling or stronger paddlers who want more blade hold and power per stroke.