Starboard Velosity vs Lima

"Over the past month, I’ve been using the new Velocity adjustable two-piece large paddle alongside my Starboard Lima paddle, primarily on river and ocean paddles. Most of my sessions have been around 9 kilometers – not super long, but enough to get a solid understanding of the Velocity’s performance and its ideal user. Here’s my take on how the Velocity compares to the Lima paddle based on my experience."

Velocity vs Lima PRE PREG – Key Differences:

1. Blade Shape:

   • The Velocity features a high-aspect, narrow blade, which is great for long-distance paddling and high cadence. The Lima, on the other hand, has a more aggressive blade that offers a combination of power and reactivity. 

2. Efficiency and Endurance:

   • The Velocity is designed for paddlers seeking maximum efficiency over long distances. The Lima, while also efficient, is more geared towards competition and high-performance in various race formats.

3. Cadence and Catch:

   • The Velocity is optimized for a higher cadence, making it ideal for paddlers who want to maintain a consistent rhythm over long distances. The Lima provides a strong catch for powerful strokes, making it more suited for sprint races or situations where quick bursts of speed are needed.

4. Target Audience:

   • Velocity is great for distance-focused paddlers and those looking to reduce muscle fatigue during long paddling sessions. The Lima is the choice for competitive racers who require versatility and high performance across a range of conditions.

Velocity Paddle:

The Velocity is a high-performance paddle designed for long-distance efficiency and comfort, specifically addressing the needs of paddlers who want to minimize fatigue and maximize their efficiency over extended periods of time.

Key Features of the Velocity Paddle:

1. High-Aspect, Narrow Blade

   • Shape: The narrow, high-aspect blade helps achieve a more efficient catch and reduces drag in the water. This shape is specifically designed for paddlers who want to focus on high cadence and maintain a consistent rhythm without tiring out quickly.

2. Blade Angle (14 degrees)

   • Longer Catch: The 14-degree blade angle ensures a longer catch phase, allowing paddlers to lean further forward, getting more out of each stroke. This maximizes the distance of each paddle stroke, which contributes to increased speed and efficiency.

3. Thin, Lightweight Blade

   • Efficient Entry: The thin blade slices through the water like a knife, minimizing splashing and ensuring that every stroke is smooth and efficient. This design reduces resistance, helping the paddler conserve energy, especially during long distances.

4. Pronounced Spine and Double Concave Design

   • Tracking and Control: The blade has a pronounced spine down the middle and double concaves. These features help track the paddle through the water smoothly, providing better control and stability as the paddle moves through the stroke.

5. Winglets to Reduce Flutter

   • Stable Stroke: The winglets on the edges of the paddle help to reduce flutter and prevent the paddle from veering side to side. This ensures a smooth, stable stroke, giving paddlers a more direct line and a consistent paddle path.

6. Maximized Efficiency

   • Long-Distance Performance: Designed for paddlers seeking maximum efficiency, the Velocity allows for long, sustained paddling without causing strain on the shoulders. Feedback from users highlights its ability to keep paddlers going without draining energy, especially when paddling in challenging conditions like wind or chop.

7. Ideal for Upwind and High-Cadence Paddling

   • Upwind Advantage: When paddling upwind, the Velocity allows paddlers to maintain a higher cadence, which contributes to a noticeable increase in speed without getting tired as quickly. The paddle's design is optimized for speed and comfort, particularly when facing tough conditions.

Lima Paddle:

The Lima is Starboards most successful and winning paddle, having been used in countless world titles and competitions. Known for its balance of power and control, it remains a top choice for elite paddlers.

Key Features of the Lima Paddle:

1. Winning Performance

   • The Lima has been the most successful paddle in racing history, having won more world titles than any other paddle in the market. It’s been part of Starboards lineup for a long time and continues to be the go-to choice for competitive racers.

2. Blade Shape and Design

   • The Lima paddle offers a balanced, symmetrical blade shape, which provides both power and stability. The shape allows for a controlled, strong catch while still being easy on the muscles, making it suitable for both shorter sprints and longer endurance races.

3. All-Round Winner

   • The Lima paddle is versatile, designed to excel in a wide range of conditions. It has the power needed for acceleration while maintaining control and stability, making it a versatile option for a variety of racing situations.

4. Track Record

   • Before the introduction of the Velocity, many top athletes and competitive paddlers used the Lima as their go-to race paddle. Even with the release of newer models, the Lima still maintains its status as the paddle of choice for winning athletes.

Summary:

• The Velocity paddle is the ideal choice for endurance paddlers seeking to maximize distance with minimal muscle fatigue. Its design promotes efficiency and speed, especially over longer sessions or upwind.
• The Lima paddle, a long-standing race winner, remains the go-to choice for elite competitors, offering a mix of power, control, and versatility across various race conditions.

If you're focused on long-distance paddling with minimal fatigue, the Velocity is the right choice. If you're aiming to race and need a proven winner for any race scenario, the Lima is your paddle.