Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Carbon Review
Compare prices at 2 resellers Pros: Very sturdy and durable locking mechanism, smooth blade performance, easy to adjust, lightweight
Cons: In the more expensive range
Manufacturer: Aqua-Bound
Our Verdict
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Our Analysis and Test Results
More than anything else, what made the Carbon Sting Ray stand out from other paddles tested, was the Poi-Lok ferrule adjustment system. This patented system firmly locks and secures the two-piece paddle together, resulting in a one-piece feel. Even after extended use (and abuse), this continued to perform, making it very easy to adjust and dismantle the paddle. The abX carbon-reinforced nylon blades, are responsive and light, ensuring a powerful and effective stroke.
Performance Comparison
Performance
Out of all the paddles tested, the Carbon Sting Ray is one of the higher-performing models. The mid-sized blades are made of abX resin reinforced with carbon fibers, delivering a smooth and effective catch and transfer of power with each stroke.
The dihedral blade design helps water to flow across the surface of the blade, which meant that no flutter was felt from this paddle, even when it was put under considerable pressure. The carbon shaft has a textured feel, which made the paddle easy to grip and helped to contribute to the effortless strokes that paddlers experienced.
There are some higher-end model paddles available that may outscore the Carbon Sting Ray in terms of performance, as they are constructed from lighter and more responsive carbon fiber. However, they are unlikely to be available for anything under $350. In comparison to lower-rated paddles, the superior performance of this paddle was very noticeable for advanced paddlers and usually noticeable by beginners.
Ease of Adjustment
All the testers agreed that the Sting Ray is one of the most straightforward systems to use. In timed tests, it was the quickest to dismantle, a feature that is useful if you want to transport the paddle in two pieces. The clear markings on the paddle shaft make it easy to identify the different blade angles on offer, and testers were able to quickly adjust the settings under pressure.
Aqua-Bound claims to offer infinite blade feather angles on this paddle. In reality, it is limited to six. However, our testers found this range of options was more than sufficient to meet our different needs and paddling conditions.
Locking Mechanism
The Posi-Lok is also incredibly secure. In blind testing, many kayakers mistook this for a one-piece paddle, as there was no play in the shaft, regardless of which way you pulled on the paddle. Despite extensive use, the secure locking system never appeared to deteriorate, and we are confident that this system will hold up for a long time to come.
Some paddles had secure locking mechanisms when new, but these paddles later became challenging to adjust as they collect grit in the connection point of the shaft. The Aqua-Bound system was not prone to this same fate and maintained its integrity throughout.
Weight
The Sting Ray is not much heavier than the lightest paddles in the review. During blind testing, when on the water, few testers were able to notice a weight difference between the lightest paddles. This is a testament to the paddle's well-distributed weight, which gives the paddle a balanced feel and helps kayakers develop a smooth and relaxed cadence with their paddle strokes.
It is lighter than most the heavier paddles by a significant amount. For those weight-sensitive adventurers, this may be an important consideration, especially if you are looking to paddle for long distances. Paddles that are significantly lighter do exist. However, these are in a completely different price category, typically aimed at expert kayakers.
Durability
The Sting Ray was the only paddle tested that did not appear to have deteriorated in any way during the time it was tested. We would like to see how this paddle continues to perform over extended periods (beyond one year). The paddle's construction style and materials, as well as the company's history of making quality paddles, indicate that the Carbon Sting Ray paddle is likely to last multiple years of frequent use. You will be looking to update your car sooner than you will be considering replacing this paddle.
The Posi-Lok system appears to be designed with the longevity of use in mind. It was incredibly easy to adjust or dismantle, even after extended use in sandy conditions. Although similar in design to the Smart View, the finish of the materials on the Sting Ray made it smoother and easier to join the two pieces. It was not prone to collecting grit.
Value
Although more expensive than your average paddle, the Sting Ray Carbon delivered a performance that is on par with paddles that cost $100 more. For the high-performance paddler, this would be considered an affordable paddle. For a novice recreational paddler, the cost may still seem too much, as it is possible to get out on the water and have some fun while only paying half this price.
Conclusion
The Sting Ray Carbon was a top performer across all metrics. Although it costs slightly more than your average paddle, all types of kayakers will be able to appreciate the higher performance that this paddle delivers.
When testers were on long kayak journeys, and especially when the conditions got tough, we were very grateful to have this paddle in our hands.
Other Versions and Accessories
Available in the following configurations :
- Shaft size: Regular or small diameter shaft for paddlers with smaller hands.
- Length: 210cm, 220cm, 230cm, 240cm or 250cm . We should note that this was the only paddle tested that was available in 250cm. This may be a consideration for paddlers over six feet tall, or those using an exceptionally wide kayak.
- Two-piece or Four-piece
- Snap button or Posi Lok system: The snap button is $10 less. However, given the significantly superior performance of the Posi-Lok, testers did wonder why anyone would choose this option.
— Sara James