Gear Review: New for 2019 Pungo Kayaking Paddle from Wilderness Systems
Value Rating: 9
Durability Rating: 10
Overall Rating: 9
Location of Test: Wilamette River
Duration of Test: 2 days
Product Name: Pungo Fiberglass Kayak Paddle
Product Brand: Wilderness Systems
Best Use: Flatwater kayaking
Pre-release review of the all-new Wilderness Systems Pungo Paddle!
The Full Review:
I got to take the all-new fiberglass Pungo paddle out on the Willamette River the other day and I was very impressed. First of all, I didn’t have to worry about sizing the paddle for me and the kayak I was going to be in because these are fully adjustable paddles. This paddle can go from 220cm-240cm with an easy lever locking system. Now, I have seen other paddles try and pull this off in the past, and they often lose rigidity as you extend them. That is not the case with the Pungo paddle. Even fully extended you get a strong and ridged paddle.
The other great thing about this paddle being fiberglass is that it is probably the most durable paddle Wilderness Systems makes. I have used fiberglass paddles in whitewater before and I know you can bang them on rocks, and they will still hold up for a very long time. Another great feature about this paddle is the lack of flex. Because this paddle doesn’t have a large surface area it will stay rigid while paddling.
The Good:
Durable - Light - Strong - Adjustable - Great low angle shape
The Bottom Line:
This paddle is a huge step up from any plastic paddle on the market. You will be glad to have a light, rigid, durable, and fully adjustable paddle you can use for many years to come.
Pre-release review of the all-new Wilderness Systems Pungo Paddle!
The Full Review:
I got to take the all-new fiberglass Pungo paddle out on the Willamette River the other day and I was very impressed. First of all, I didn’t have to worry about sizing the paddle for me and the kayak I was going to be in because these are fully adjustable paddles. This paddle can go from 220cm-240cm with an easy lever locking system. Now, I have seen other paddles try and pull this off in the past, and they often lose rigidity as you extend them. That is not the case with the Pungo paddle. Even fully extended you get a strong and ridged paddle.
The other great thing about this paddle being fiberglass is that it is probably the most durable paddle Wilderness Systems makes. I have used fiberglass paddles in whitewater before and I know you can bang them on rocks, and they will still hold up for a very long time. Another great feature about this paddle is the lack of flex. Because this paddle doesn’t have a large surface area it will stay rigid while paddling.
The Good:
Durable - Light - Strong - Adjustable - Great low angle shape
The Bottom Line:
This paddle is a huge step up from any plastic paddle on the market. You will be glad to have a light, rigid, durable, and fully adjustable paddle you can use for many years to come.