Werner Sherpa Carbon STR

Werner Sherpa Carbon STR: Lightweight carbon paddle with a straight shaft

Sherpa Carbon STR: Balanced Performance for Challenging Whitewater

Werner Sherpa Carbon STR This is a one-piece carbon paddle with a straight shaft designed for advanced kayakers seeking a balanced combination of power, precise maneuverability, and comfort. The medium-sized blades provide sufficient support for technical whitewater and creeking, yet remain gentler on the arms during long paddling sessions than large, power-oriented models.

The Sherpa model is designed for paddlers who want stable and predictable traction in rapids, on large bodies of water, and on multi-day expeditions. The carbon construction offers low weight and quick responsiveness, while the edge reinforcements increase durability when coming into contact with rocks.

Medium-sized asymmetrical blades for smooth traction

The blades are asymmetrical in shape and medium in size. This design promotes precise entry of the blade into the water, a smooth stroke, and a clean finish, which is important when maneuvering through technical rapids or making quick course corrections.

• Asymmetrical leaves: For effective contact with the water and precise control of the kayak.
• Medium surface area, 680 cm²: A balanced ratio between grip strength and ease on the shoulders.
• Smooth response: Suitable for forward strokes, support strokes, corrections, and technical maneuvers.
• All-Day Comfort: The medium-sized blade helps reduce fatigue during longer rides.

Dihhedral profile for vibration-free stability

The dihedral profile of the blade stabilizes water flow during the stroke and helps reduce flutter—that is, unwanted vibrations of the paddle. The result is more stable support, a smoother stroke, and more precise control of the boat in turbulent water.

• Dihhedral structure: For stable blade guidance during operation.
• Vibration Control: Less vibration and a more predictable response in rapids.
• Certain supports: Useful for tilts, waves, rolls, and quick corrections.
• Technical accuracy: For active maneuvering of the boat in rocky and variable currents.

Carbon, Dynel, and Kevlar for light weight and durability

The carbon blades provide high stiffness and instant power transfer, while the Dynel and Kevlar reinforcements protect the edges from impact and abrasion. This makes the paddle suitable for regular use in creeks, where the blades may come into contact with rocks and the riverbed.

• Carbon sheets: Lightweight, high rigidity, and quick response.
• Dynel reinforcements: Additional protection for the blades against wear and tear.
• Kevlar reinforcements: Enhanced edge resistance to impact and abrasion.
• Handcrafted in the U.S.: Precision engineering focused on consistent quality and a long service life.

Straight carbon fiber shaft for direct power transfer

The straight carbon shaft offers a classic grip and direct, responsive power transfer between the hands and the blades. The one-piece design, with no joints, ensures maximum structural rigidity, low weight, and consistent response with every stroke.

• Straight mast: A classic sports design for a direct grip and precise paddle response.
• Carbon construction: Lightweight and rigid for efficient power transfer.
• One-piece paddle: No connecting mechanism for maximum strength and stable performance.
• Bent's Alternative: If you prefer a more ergonomic wrist position, consider the Sherpa Carbon Bent.

Lengths, Angles, and Small-Diameter Shafts

The Werner Sherpa Carbon STR is a one-piece paddle with a customizable length starting at 191 to 200 cm; the lineup includes 194-, 197-, and 200-cm models. The standard angle is to the right 30°, and the product lineup also includes an R45° version. For smaller hands, you can choose the narrower Small Diameter Shaft.

• Lengths: Custom sizes from 191 to 200 cm; available sizes: 194 cm, 197 cm, and 200 cm.
• Leaf browning: R30° is standard; R45° is also available, depending on the selected variant.
• Small-Diameter Shaft: A narrower shaft diameter for smaller hands and a more comfortable grip.
• One-piece construction: Select the length and angle before placing your order; they cannot be changed afterward.

Suitable use

The Werner Sherpa Carbon Straight Shaft is suitable for technically challenging whitewater, creeking, big-volume rivers, and expedition paddling. The medium-sized blade is ideal for paddlers who want high control and durability but don’t need the maximum power of large, high-performance blades.

• Creeking: Durable edge reinforcements and precise traction for technical, rocky sections.
• Rivers with high flow rates: A stable fin for rough water, waves, and turbulent currents.
• Technical rapids: Precise blade positioning and reliable control during maneuvers.
• Full-day paddling: The center of the blade helps conserve energy during long rides.
• Expedition Riding: A lightweight, simple, and sturdy one-piece design.
• Advanced riders: For kayakers looking for a balance between power, maneuverability, and comfort.

Technical parameters

Bonus program and purchase benefits

When you make a purchase, you earn points in our rewards program, which you can use as a discount on your next purchase of paddling gear—such as a helmet, life jacket, spray skirt, paddling jacket, safety equipment, or other whitewater accessories.

Expert Advice

The Sherpa Carbon STR is a good choice for riders who want a medium-sized blade with smooth engagement and the direct response of a straight shaft. For heights of 170 to 180 cm, the recommended length is 194 to 197 cm; for heights of 180 to 190 cm, it is 197 to 200 cm. If you have smaller hands, consider the Small Diameter Shaft; be sure to check the selected length and blade angle before ordering, as a one-piece paddle cannot be adjusted after purchase.