When I bought My Kayak this year, I was told to look for a paddle that fit me. I have a 230 Aqua Bound, that has a carbon fiber shaft and plastic molded blades. The paddle is also a medium angle stroke blade. They said that would make a difference aswell. The medium angle I felt was a little easier to control more so than a deep angle paddle. You don't have to dig as deep in the awter to get the same movement and control, it is a more relaxed paddle. You could expect to spend about $100 to 150 for a entry level carbon fiber paddle that you love for a long time. I felt that the $ I spent was well worth it after being on the water for a long day of fishing, and have to try to paddle with a heavy paddle no way that is going to happen.