The Aqua-Bound Challenge was among the top contenders regarding performance, with a lightweight construction and a well-designed blade. This paddle is best for serious users who appreciate a paddle that can help them push their limits, even if it means paying a bit more for it up front.
Performance Comparison
The Challenge is a high-performing paddle that's lightweight and easy to adjust.
Performance
This paddle is lightweight and nimble, and users felt that it was easy to manipulate their crafts when paddling, and quick motions were not a problem. Because of the paddle's 10-degree offset, backstrokes are also easy. Unlike other light models like the iGK Pure Carbon, which features a light construction but heavy locking mechanism, this model's balance was not thrown off by its locking mechanism.
The Aqua-Bound's blade.
Weight
While not the lightest product in the test, this model weighed in at just 1.3 pounds, which is much lighter than the heavier and less nimble models in the test.
Ease of Adjustment
This paddle features a Performance adjustment system, which makes it one of the easiest-to-adjust paddles in our review. The paddle has six adjustment holes and a small steel button that you compress to lengthen or shorten the paddle. It's simple to do and allows a group to share one paddle easily. This model has an adjustment range of 10.5 inches, which was not the highest in our test. If you plan on sharing your paddle between multiple users, consider an easier-to-adjust model, like the Werner Trance or Vibe.
Locking Mechanism
The Aqua-Bound featured our testers' second-favorite locking mechanism. The Performance adjustment features six holes along the handle of the paddle. Just press a metal button and extend or contract the paddle. After it's adjusted there is very little play in the handle.
Here are two "performance" adjustment systems. The Aqua-Bound paddle is at the top, the older version of the Trance is on the bottom.
Compactability
With a compact size of 66 inches, the Aqua-Bound was not the most compact paddle in our test fleet. However, our testers found that the paddle compacted enough to fit in SUVs and trucks easily. If you have a small car or are planning on traveling with your SUP setup, consider a three-piece model, which is represented by the IGK in our test fleet. The Werner Vibe and Trance also offer 3-piece versions.
Best Applications
This model is perfect for intermediate users who know that they are serious about the sport and don't mind investing in it.
Value
This model packs a lot of performance in a relatively affordable package. While it is slightly less high-performance than our Editors' Choice winning Werner Trance, it is also a lot easier on your pocketbook.
Conclusion
The Aqua-Bound is a high-performance model with an easy locking mechanism and lightweight construction, making it a good paddle for serious users who want performance for their dollar.
