Werner Guide Stick⁚ An Overview
The Werner Guide Stick is a high-performance paddle designed specifically for raft guides. It’s renowned for its durability and reliability in challenging whitewater conditions. It features a symmetrical blade and bomber strength.
What is the Werner Guide Stick?
The Werner Guide Stick is the ultimate paddle crafted for raft guides demanding exceptional performance and legendary Werner “Bomber” durability. This paddle is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in challenging river environments. Its symmetrical blade design offers predictable strokes‚ aiding guides in maneuvering rafts effectively and safely. Trusted by professionals‚ the Guide Stick is a reliable tool for navigating whitewater and ensuring a smooth experience for passengers. It’s a testament to Werner’s commitment to quality and performance in paddle sports equipment.
Key Features and Design
The Werner Guide Stick boasts a combination of durable materials and thoughtful design. Key features include a fiberglass blade‚ composite shaft‚ symmetrical blade shape‚ and a molded T-grip handle.
Fiberglass Blade Material
The fiberglass blade material of the Werner Guide Stick is essential to its performance. Fiberglass offers an ideal balance of strength‚ durability‚ and flexibility. This allows for efficient power transfer during strokes while also providing some give to reduce fatigue over long days on the river. The symmetrical design ensures predictability in various paddling techniques‚ contributing to overall control and maneuverability in demanding whitewater environments; The fiberglass construction also provides resistance to impacts.
Fiberglass/Carbon Fiber Composite Shaft
The Werner Guide Stick utilizes a fiberglass/carbon fiber composite shaft to achieve an optimal balance of weight‚ strength‚ and flex. The fiberglass provides durability and flex‚ while the carbon fiber enhances stiffness and reduces overall weight. This combination results in a shaft that is both responsive and comfortable to use for extended periods. The composite material allows for efficient energy transfer during paddling‚ reducing fatigue. The shaft’s construction contributes to the paddle’s overall performance and makes it a trusted tool for river guides.
Symmetrical Blade Design
The Werner Guide Stick features a symmetrical blade design‚ meaning that the front and back of the blade are identical. This design provides predictable and versatile strokes‚ essential for navigating whitewater. The symmetrical shape ensures consistent performance whether the paddler is pushing or pulling. This predictability is especially valuable for raft guides who need reliable control in dynamic river environments. The blade design helps guides keep their guests safe and on course‚ making it a popular choice among professionals. The symmetrical blade is ideal for whitewater.
Molded T-Grip Handle
The Werner Guide Stick includes a molded T-grip handle designed for comfort and control. This handle is typically made from enhanced ABS-T material for maximum durability and grip. The T-grip allows for secure handling‚ even in wet conditions. Its ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during long days on the river. The molded construction ensures a firm hold‚ enhancing the paddler’s ability to maneuver the raft effectively. The T-grip is a critical feature for raft guides who require reliable control and comfort. It provides leverage and stability‚ improving overall paddling performance and safety.
Durability and Performance
The Werner Guide Stick is known for its “bomber” durability‚ ensuring long-lasting performance. Its lightweight design and predictable handling make it a favorite among professional raft guides navigating challenging whitewater.
Werner’s “Bomber” Durability
Werner’s “Bomber” durability is a key characteristic of the Guide Stick‚ making it a top choice for raft guides. This refers to the paddle’s ability to withstand the rigors of frequent use in demanding whitewater environments. The robust construction ensures that the paddle can endure impacts‚ abrasions‚ and other stresses without compromising its structural integrity. This is a critical feature for guides who rely on their equipment for safety and performance.
Lightweight Design
Despite its robust construction and exceptional durability‚ the Werner Guide Stick boasts a lightweight design. This is achieved through the use of fiberglass and carbon fiber composite materials in the shaft‚ reducing fatigue for guides during long days on the water. The lightweight nature of the paddle allows for quicker and more efficient strokes‚ enhancing maneuverability and control of the raft. This is especially valuable in challenging whitewater situations requiring rapid responses.
Predictable Handling
The symmetrical blade design of the Werner Guide Stick ensures predictable handling in various water conditions. This symmetry means the paddle performs consistently whether used forward or in reverse‚ providing confidence and control to the user. The predictable nature of the strokes makes it easier for guides to maneuver rafts effectively‚ especially when navigating challenging rapids or tight turns. Its consistent feel reduces the learning curve‚ allowing guides to focus on their tasks and guest safety.
Target Audience
The Werner Guide Stick is primarily designed for professional raft guides. Its features cater to the demands and needs of individuals who navigate whitewater rivers regularly. It is built to be durable and reliable.
Raft Guides
The Werner Guide Stick is an essential tool for raft guides who prioritize performance and durability. It is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding river environments. The paddle’s symmetrical blade offers predictable strokes‚ crucial for maneuvering rafts safely and effectively. It is built with “Bomber” strength‚ ensuring long-lasting reliability. Its lightweight design minimizes fatigue during extended trips‚ allowing guides to focus on their guests’ safety and enjoyment. The T-grip handle provides a comfortable and secure grip‚ enhancing control in challenging conditions‚ and the fiberglass shaft offers great flex and strength.
Available Sizes
The Werner Guide Stick is available in multiple lengths to accommodate different user heights and raft setups. Common sizes include 60‚ 63‚ 66‚ 69‚ and 72 inches‚ ensuring a proper fit for optimal performance.
Size Options (60‚ 63‚ 66‚ 69‚ 72 inches)
The Werner Guide Stick comes in a range of sizes‚ specifically 60‚ 63‚ 66‚ 69‚ and 72 inches‚ catering to various paddler heights and preferences. Selecting the correct size is crucial for efficient and comfortable paddling. A properly sized paddle reduces strain and maximizes power transfer. The 66-inch variant is a popular choice for many guides‚ offering a balance of reach and maneuverability. Consider your height and raft setup when choosing the ideal length.
User Reviews and Feedback
User reviews highlight the Werner Guide Stick’s durability and performance. Many users praise its “bomber” strength and predictable handling. However‚ some mention T-grip issues. Overall‚ feedback is largely positive‚ emphasizing its reliability.
Positive Aspects Mentioned in Reviews
Users frequently commend the Werner Guide Stick for its exceptional durability‚ often using terms like “bomber strength” to describe its robust construction. The paddle’s predictable handling in whitewater conditions is also highly valued‚ providing confidence and control for raft guides. The lightweight design of the paddle is appreciated‚ reducing fatigue during long days on the river. The paddle is considered a reliable and high-performing tool for professional guides.
Potential Drawbacks
Some users have reported issues with the T-grip handle‚ noting that it can occasionally break off with heavy use. While Werner offers a repair service for this issue‚ it can be an inconvenience. Some users are not fans of the blade as they consider it thin. Also‚ some users find the shaft is too flexible for their liking and the designs/colors are not as aesthetically pleasing as they would like.
Maintenance and Repair
Maintaining the Werner Guide Stick typically involves rinsing it after use. Werner provides a repair service‚ particularly for T-grip issues. Proper care extends the paddle’s lifespan and performance;
T-Grip Issues and Werner’s Repair Service
One common issue reported by users of the Werner Guide Stick is the potential for the T-grip handle to break. However‚ Werner addresses this concern by offering a repair service‚ sometimes free of charge‚ to fix or replace the T-grip. This commitment to customer satisfaction and product support ensures that guides can continue to rely on their Werner paddles‚ even if minor issues arise with the handle. It’s a testament to Werner’s dedication to quality and durability.
Alternatives to the Werner Guide Stick
While the Werner Guide Stick is a popular choice‚ alternatives exist. Options such as the NRS PTC Paddle‚ Mitchell Paddles‚ and Sawyer Paddles offer different features and price points for raft guides to consider.
NRS PTC Paddle
The NRS PTC paddle stands out as a viable alternative to the Werner Guide Stick‚ offering a balance of performance and value. Some guides who have used both find the 1-1/4 inch diameter comfortable‚ similar to the Carlisle guide paddle. While the blade is shorter‚ the PTC provides reliable performance. It’s worth noting that personal preference plays a significant role‚ but the NRS PTC paddle is a solid option to consider.
Mitchell and Sawyer Paddles
When considering alternatives to the Werner Guide Stick‚ Mitchell and Sawyer paddles often appear in discussions among rafting professionals. These paddles are known for their craftsmanship and traditional designs‚ appealing to guides who appreciate a classic feel. While the online resources provide limited specific details regarding these brands as direct substitutes‚ their reputation in the paddling community suggests they offer durable and reliable options for river guiding. Exploring these options can cater to individual preferences.
Pricing and Availability
The Werner Guide Stick has a suggested retail price (MSRP) of around $190. It’s typically available through various online retailers specializing in paddles and river gear. Oversized options may incur extra shipping charges.
MSRP and Where to Buy
The Werner Guide Stick generally carries a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of approximately $190. Potential buyers can typically find the paddle available for purchase through a variety of online retailers that specialize in paddles‚ rafting gear‚ and outdoor equipment. Some local paddle shops or outfitters catering to the whitewater rafting community may also stock the Werner Guide Stick. It’s advisable to check both online and local sources to compare prices and availability before making a purchase.