Shortening a Paddle
Spring 2026 Update: As of April 2026, all factory cut and glued paddle grips are now fastened using an industrial strength hot melt glue.
Scenario: Your original paddle length is 51.5" and you'd like to shorten it to 50"
Note - if you purchased your paddle uncut, simply skip step #2.
- Verify length: Before starting, measure the original length of the paddle with the grip installed. In this case, we are imaging it to be 51.5"
- Grip removal: Gently warm the joint between the shaft and the grip using a heat gun on low heat, or a strong hair dryer on high heat (the hair dryer may take a while). You want to use as little heat as possible to get the glue loose. The grip should come out easily once the glue softens up. Allow any remaining glue on the bottom of the grip to cool and gently pull it off if possible. This will allow you to test fit the grip after you've cut the shaft to length.
- Measure and Cut: With the grip removed, put a piece of masking tape on the length of the shaft to allow for easier marking of the cut point. In this scenario, I want to to shorten the paddle from it's original length of 51.5" to 50", a difference of 1.5". I'll measure 1.5" from the top of the shaft and cut at this line. Cut using a a very fine tooth saw, a metal hack saw works great. Don't rush the cut; use gentle strokes and let the blade do the work to get the cleanest cut possible without tearing the carbon fibers.
- Sand and Test fit: With some fine grit (~320 grit) sandpaper, gently sand and bevel the cut edge of the shaft. Test fit the grip and measure the length to ensure you're cut was accurate. Its a good idea to put a piece of masking tape on the front of the grip to remind yourself which way goes forward.
- Glue, cool, and clean up: Using a high temp glue gun and my industrial strength hot melt glue, add a small bead of glue around the inside of the shaft about 1/4" below the top. Put a similar small bead around the grip insert about 1/4" from the bottom. Gently insert the grip and ensure alignment. If it cools too quickly while you're inserting, gently warm up the joint a bit with the heat gun and adjust (this usually happens to me). Let the excess glue cool completely for about 10min, then gently work it loose with your fingers. Its should come off and leave a really clean joint.