When do I pay?
After we complete your sizing consultation and agree on paddle dimensions, shoulder style, and tip option.

How do I pay?
You can pay for your Perfect Paddle two ways:

1. By Credit Card: - I will send you a detailed invoice via e-mail.  When you click on the payment button on the invoice, you will transfer to the secure PayPal website and receive instructions on how to proceed.   Your credit card account information will be viewed only by PayPal, and not shared with anyone else, including me.   All major credit cards are accepted, and you do not need a PayPal account.
2. By Check:  I will send you a detailed invoice and you can remit either a personal or cashier’s check to:

                          The Perfect Paddle, LLC

                          W8260 Lake Terrace                      

                          Lake Mills, WI  53551

Why do I have to pay before you make the paddle?
Each paddle I make is owner specific.  It is unique to the individual it was made for, and the likelihood of finding another person that it will fit properly is slim.  I make every effort at the onset to define the critical parameters that will result in a paddle that is right for you, and promise you will be satisfied with the quality of workmanship and adherence to those parameters.

How much will shipping cost?
You will be charged only what it actually costs to ship the paddle to your address.  The least expensive option is usually UPS Ground.   Costs will vary depending on your zone from Lake Mills, Wisconsin.  Zone 2 addresses (the closest) will cost approximately $23.00.  Zone 7 (West Coast) addresses will cost approximately $30.00.   These totals include an $8.00 oversize charge, insurance and a fuel surcharge.  Actual costs depend on the rates and surcharges in effect at the time of shipping, and parcel weight which is determined largely by packaging materials.   Shipping costs to Alaska or Hawaii are much higher (>$75). 

How long will it take to get my paddle?

It takes me from five to seven days to have a paddle ready to ship once I start making it.  Most of that time is spent waiting for epoxy and finish coats to cure.  Shipping adds another one to four days, depending on your location.  Upper Midwest destinations will take one to two days; most East Coast addresses take three days; West Coast and Southern Florida five days.  The actual lead time will depend on my backlog at the time you place your order.  I will give you a good faith estimate of the expected ship date when we talk.  

Why Western Red Cedar?

Western Red Cedar has several characteristics that make it very well suited for kayak paddles:

• It is naturally resistant to rot, and will last years in an aquatic environment, even without a protective coating. 
• It is lightweight. 
• It has good shock absorbing characteristics. 
• Finally, while stronger materials are available, cedar is strong enough to make durable, effective Greenland paddles. 

Do you make laminated paddles?

Not yet.   

How much do your paddles weigh?

Weight varies depending on such factors as length, shoulder style, and the ratio of blade length to loom length.  A 90” paddle with a 20.5” loom and stepped shoulders weighs about 26 ounces.  An 87” paddle with 19” loom and tapered shoulders weighs about 23 ounces. 

How should I care for my paddle?

To put it simply, "use it, but don’t abuse it."  Wood is more susceptible to scratches and dents than plastics, so careless flings against rocky shorelines or concrete landings are more likely to result in visible blemishes.  Cosmetic damage won’t detract from performance, but will make your paddle less pleasing to look at.  You can correct most superficial damage by hand sanding with a padded sanding block.  Start with 100 grit and work through 325 vacuuming away the dust between each grit change.  Buff with a white abrasive pad, and apply several coats of tung oil, lightly sanding with 325 grit and buffing between coats.  Light sanding and buffing followed by a reapplication of tung oil every year or two will help preserve your paddle's appearance.