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iGK Pure Carbon Fiber Review

The IGK is a traveler's dream, as it breaks into three pieces and comes with its own carrying case
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iGK Pure Carbon Fiber Review (iGK Pure Carbon Fiber)
iGK Pure Carbon Fiber
Price:  $200 List
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Manufacturer:   iGK
By Shey Kiester ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Oct 18, 2019
64
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Performance - 30% 7.0
  • Weight - 20% 7.0
  • Ease of Adjustment - 20% 6.0
  • Locking Mechanism - 20% 5.0
  • Aesthetics - 10% 7.0

Our Verdict

The iGK Pure Carbon is one of only a few products in our test fleet that are constructed entirely from carbon. This makes these products extremely light, while at the same time making some users uncomfortable with their ability to handle heavy-duty wear and tear. The iGK features a three-piece construction, that's hugely beneficial to those planning on traveling with their SUP setup. But, it can be detrimental in the long run, as more moving parts means more possibility for something to go wrong.
REASONS TO BUY
Light
Compact
Sturdy
REASONS TO AVOID
More expensive than other similar paddles
Adjustment system is finicky

Our Analysis and Test Results

The iGK Pure Carbon impressed testers, as it was both lightweight and highly portable. This paddle excelled in both our performance metric, but it fell far behind other models when it came to adjustability and locking mechanism performance. While some testers did not think this product's locking mechanism was a deal-breaker, others did. Read on to find out more.

While this model did not fare well in the overall scoring metric, this was due in large part to its low scores in adjustability and locking mechanism, which were weighted heavily in this review. However, it performed very well in other areas, so if you determine that the locking mechanism of this paddle doesn't bother you, this could be the paddle for you.

Performance Comparison


igk pure carbon fiber - the igk paddle out for a rip.
The IGK paddle out for a rip.

Performance


Despite its locking mechanism debacles, the iGK managed to receive a high score for performance. This model's large rectangular blade moved water well on both forward and backward strokes, and users felt that the lightweight of the paddle contributed to a more pleasant experience on the water. Additionally, this model did not have a wiggle in the handle where the shaft section met the blade section.

igk pure carbon fiber - here is the rectangular blade of the igk.
Here is the rectangular blade of the IGK.

Weight


This paddle, made of all carbon, weighed in at 1.5 pounds, making it one of the lighter paddles in our test.

Ease of Adjustment


The iGK did not score well in this metric. With a Family Adjustment adjustment system, the iGK adjusts by lifting a lever that is on the handle and which releases tension, allowing the handle end of the shaft to move, creating a longer or shorter distance.

You can adjust this with a screwdriver, but how often do you have that handy? Unfortunately, the adjustment mechanism loosened up on us often. When free, the handle slides around in the shaft, which makes paddling extremely difficult. This was annoying, but you can still paddle. With 15 inches of adjustability, this paddle scored in the middle of the pack.

igk pure carbon fiber - the adjustment system and marking of the igk
The adjustment system and marking of the IGK

Locking Mechanism


The locking mechanism metric was another point of weakness for the iGK. The Family Adjust system adjusts via a lever located on the handle. It releases tension which lets you slide the parts. While effective, on such a light paddle, this hefty locking mechanism throws off balance.

Aesthetics


Regrettably, the iGK Pure Carbon adjustable SUP paddle somewhat failed to impress in our final testing metric: aesthetics. While the paddle is decently visually appealing with a carbon finish and smooth futuristic lines, it doesn't have quite the same style as other paddles with accent graphics, contrasting colors, or wood veneer. We did appreciate that it doesn't look like a toy. It would be a good option for someone who has a more discreet style preference but most of our judges preferred paddles with a little more panache.

Value


Unfortunately, this model is fairly pricey. However, we feel that if you're set on getting a three-piece model, then this is a good option, as its system secures tightly with very little play.

Conclusion


This paddle is for travel-focused users. If you're hiking with your SUP or flying across the ocean for remote SUP adventures, this is an incredible option for travelers, offering lightweight construction and performance.

Shey Kiester