Experience
Effortless
The <Versa Paddle> System is designed to keep kayakers as independent and active as possible. A mount supports the weight of the kayak paddle while you paddle, reducing stress on your shoulders, back and joints. The Versa Paddle can be used straight or angled downward on both sides. The angled position requires a smaller range of motion and permits one-handed paddling, making kayaking possible for people with injuries, disabilities, amputations and other mobility limitations.
Paddling
7 Best Kayak Paddles
Paddling Magazine, 2020
HOW THE VERSA PADDLE WORKS
The Versa Paddle System comes with a patented base mount that attaches to your kayak and can be easily removed when not in use. The system also includes a support post, an omni-directional pivoting head, and the adjustable Versa Paddle. Use it either angle or straight while in the mount and enjoy a fluid, energy-efficient paddling experience that requires less mobility, strength and endurance. You'll use a gentle rotary movement of your forearm(s) – much like pedaling a bicycle with your hands -- to glide through the water with minimal effort.
You can also pop the Versa Paddle out of the mount and use it like a regular paddle. Simply choose the <mount> that works best for your sit-inside, sit-on-top or SUP.
THE ULTIMATE IN VERSATILITY
It’s not a coincidence that we named it the “Versa” Paddle. Each paddle shaft can be adjusted to one of three lengths to accommodate varying deck heights and kayak widths, for a total range of 220 to 255 cm. Use the paddle angled or straight on the mount, or take if off entirely and use it on its own.
Depending on the mount, Versa can be moved forward and back, raised or lowered, or adjusted to fit a wide range of kayaks. The shafts can be easily disassembled, and the mount can be removed when not in use. We have <paddle bags> (sold separately) available to keep everything protected and stored in one place.
USE IT ANGLED OR STRAIGHT
Depending on paddling conditions and the preferences of the paddler, you can use Versa in the mount, either straight or angled downward. With a gentle tug, Versa can be popped out of the mount and used like a traditional paddle. In fact, we've found it useful to use Versa in "straight mode" when launching and exiting the kayak, and in "angled mode" in the mount on open water.
In the angled position, you'll use a gentle rotary movement of the forearm(s) – much like pedaling a bicycle with your hands -- to glide through the water with minimal effort.
The only slight difference between the Versa in "straight mode" and a regular kayak paddle is that there is a 2" steel pin that holds the two shafts of Versa together. That pin protrudes slightly on either side when not resting in the support post.
PROTECT SHOULDER FUNCTION
For paddlers who have paralysis or a missing limb on one side, or who've had shoulder surgery and rotator cuff problems, preserving shoulder function and range of motion (ROM) on their other side is imperative. You don't want to do any repetitive movement that compromises that function, such as raising your arm too high. Versa gives you the option of shifting more energy into the stroke on your dominant side so that you're putting less strain on your compromised side.
Angling Versa downward provides even more benefits. It requires only the slightest range of motion, with hands staying in the 10 and 2 o'clock positions. Paddlers don't risk injuring their functioning shoulder like they might with a straight paddle or even a straight paddle in a mount. In fact, physical and recreational therapists highly recommend Versa to their clients for just this reason.
Features
With a simple slide of the retractable thumb button, you can change the paddle from angled to straight and back again.
The mounts are easy to install. Most (but not all) require a drill, wrench, marker and about 15 minutes of time. Installation instructions included.
Three push buttons on each shaft let you adjust the length to different settings so you can achieve the best fit for your kayak.
STABLE, ONE-HANDED, KAYAKING
Because our Hinged Mount for sit-in kayaks attaches to both the front coaming and the two side coamings, our Versa Paddle stays secure. The centralized support allows you to put the blade in both sides of the water very easily, without losing control. There's no wobbling or pivoting around, meaning even paddlers with one hand (e.g., due to paralysis, congenital amputation, stroke, etc.) or very little strength or coordination can paddle a kayak with ease.
ADAPTIVE PADDLING PROGRAMS
We work with hundreds of adaptive paddling, summer camps, veterans and military organizations, physical therapists and rehabilitation programs, as well as community parks and recreation programs. Their paddlers include people who've had strokes, paralysis, neuro muscular diseases, PTSD, one limb, Cerebral Palsy and other cognitive and physical disabilities. Some already know how to paddle a kayak, but many are first-timers.
HANDS-FREE FISHING
The Versa Paddle system keeps your paddle securely and conveniently in place as you bait, cast or reel in a fish. No more paddle leashes, wet laps or expensive pedal kayaks, . Simply “let go” and your paddle stays put-- there's no worrying it might fall in the water. Paddle backwards just as easily.
SIT ON YOUR SUP
Stand up paddleboarding can be hard on your shoulders, back, legs and core, and sometimes you want to take a break and sit down. The Versa system supports the weight of your paddle while you paddle in a seated position. We designed it to give paddleboarders choices during their outings and to provide an option for people who are unable to stand or have mobility limitations.
ALL AGES & ABILITIES
Versa gets people out on the water who might not normally be able to paddle. It's one of the best kayak paddles for people with disabilities, older adults with limited strength, or experienced kayakers with shoulder injuries or tendonitis. Our customers include paddlers with no grip strength, children with autism, amputees, and people with paralysis, quadriplegia and cerebral palsy.
RENTALS, TOURISM GROUPS & FAMILIES
Whether you're part of an extended family, an outfitter or rent kayaks to groups, Versa can be adjusted to fit nearly anyone. It's the best kayak paddle for suiting a wide range of paddlers. Helps kids build their endurance and skills. You can see how the system fits together here.
FIND YOUR MOUNT
The Versa Paddle can be used with a number of our mounts. Whenever possible, though, we recommend using our Hinged Mount for sit-inside kayaks as this mount provides 5-star stability. We also offer the Apex, Twin Track and Custom Mounts, however the stability rating diminishes slightly with these mounts due to absence of secondary stability arms. See our mounts page for the features, stability ratings and fit specifications.
What Paddlers Are Saying
CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
"As far as the (Versa goes), I love it. I’m a disabled veteran and only have limited use of my right shoulder and arm. I never thought I’d be able to use a kayak. That thing has really made a difference. I love it."
- Tracy J., Oklahoma
REVIEWS
