We offer three types of scull shaft construction: ORIGINAL, ULTRALIGHT and LOW INERTIA.

Original shafts, comprised of both fiberglass and carbon fiber, are an offshoot of the first composite shafts we made.  These shafts weigh more than our other options and therefore are not as popular among rowers at all levels. Originals have great impact resistance and are a good choice where oar durability is paramount. 

Ultralight shafts, first introduced in 1986, are made entirely of carbon fiber, making them 25% lighter than our original oars. Ultralights have less impact resistance than the original construction, but the weight reduction saves a significant amount of energy at higher stroke rates. For this reason, most rowers choose the Ultralight shaft construction.

Low Inertia (Low-I) shafts were introduced in December 2004 for scullers looking for oars with lower overall weight and lighter "swing weight." The overall weight is approximately 5 oz. less per scull than our standard Ultralight construction, while the swing weight is reduced by 18%. "Swing weight" refers to the weight at the  blade, felt each time the oar changes direction. A reduction in swing weight becomes more significant at higher stroke rates. Lighter rowers may realize more benefit from these sculls than heavier rowers.
Note: Low-I sculls are more susceptible to impact damage than the Ultralight sculls and have to be handled with greater care.  As with any decrease in oar weight, balancing your boat may be more difficult until you get used to the change.

Shaft stiffness is mostly a matter of personal preference. Softer shafts will flex more easily on the drive. Some people like this softer feel; others feel it is a waste of energy. Stiffer shafts will flex less on the drive. Some people like this stiff feeling; others feel it can contribute to overuse injuries. Most people order medium stiffness unless they have a clear personal preference either way.

Our stiffness measurements are made using a standard length of the shaft (as shown in the diagram). Therefore, when choosing, stiffness, the oar length deserves some consideration. A very long oar will feel more flexible than a short oar of the same stiffness spec.