Bending Branches Expedition Plus

Bending Branches Expedition Plus Canoe Paddle

Built to withstand demanding conditions on long wilderness journeys, the Bending Branches Expedition Plus is a highly durable straight-shaft wooden canoe paddle designed for expeditionary travel, heavy tripping and whitewater up to Class III.

Its reinforced hardwood construction combines the traditional feel and natural appearance of wood with substantial protection around the blade and lower shaft. This makes it a dependable choice for paddlers who need lasting strength, positive control and confidence when travelling through shallow, rocky or moving water.

Built for demanding canoe expeditions

The Expedition Plus was developed for canoeists who require power, control and durability over extended trips. Its substantial 126 sq. in. blade provides a positive catch and dependable purchase in the water, helping the paddler control loaded canoes, perform corrective strokes and manoeuvre effectively in changing conditions.

Bending Branches’ Power T-Grip gives the paddler a secure hand position and the leverage required for steering, prying and other controlled canoe strokes.

Reinforced hardwood blade

The blade is handcrafted from red alder, basswood and roasted basswood, creating a distinctive laminated appearance while retaining the natural feel associated with a traditional wooden canoe paddle.

A 4 oz fibreglass wrap reinforces and protects the blade. Bending Branches’ proprietary Rockgard® protection surrounds the complete blade edge and extends six inches up the shaft, strengthening areas that may encounter rocks, banks and shallow riverbeds.

Rounded blade corners also help reduce the likelihood of chipping during demanding use.

Strong 18-laminate shaft

The straight shaft is constructed from 18 laminates of basswood, providing the strength required for expeditionary and moving-water paddling. Its ovalised profile offers a comfortable grip and helps the paddler recognise blade orientation by feel.

The Expedition Plus has a manufacturer-listed weight of approximately 24 oz / 680 g, based on a 54-inch paddle. As wood is a natural material, weight, grain and colour can vary slightly between individual paddles.

Suitable for flat water and whitewater

Although built with the durability needed for moving water, the Expedition Plus remains suitable for flat-water lakes, touring and traditional canoe strokes. Bending Branches designed this version for heavy tripping and rapids up to Class III.

It is not intended as a specialist paddle for Class IV or Class V whitewater.

Best suited to

• Long wilderness canoe trips
• Expedition and heavy-tripping use
• Loaded solo or tandem canoes
• River and moving-water paddling
• Whitewater up to Class III
• Flat-water touring and traditional canoe strokes
• Paddlers prioritising durability, leverage and control
  
  

Key features

• Exceptionally durable straight-shaft wooden canoe paddle
• Designed for wilderness trips and heavy tripping
• Suitable for whitewater up to Class III
• 18-laminate basswood shaft
• Red alder, basswood and roasted basswood blade
• Protective 4 oz fibreglass blade wrap
• Rockgard® around the complete blade edge and six inches up the shaft
• Rounded blade corners help resist chipping
• Power T-Grip provides secure control and leverage
• Handcrafted in the USA
  
  

Specifications

Shaft material: 18-laminate basswood

Shaft style: Straight

Shaft profile: Ovalised for comfort

Blade material: Red alder, basswood and roasted basswood

Blade protection: 4 oz fibreglass wrap and full Rockgard® edging extending six inches up the shaft

Blade dimensions: 8.2 × 19 inches / 21 × 48 cm

Blade surface area: 126 sq. in. / 813 sq. cm

Grip: Power T-Grip

Approximate weight: 24 oz / 680 g

The stated weight is based on a 54-inch straight-shaft paddle. Because wood is a natural material, the manufacturer allows for approximately ±10% variation in paddle weight.