Frequently Asked Questions
We enjoy talking to passionate paddlers, and we want you to enjoy paddling as much as we do! If you have an issue with your paddle, we want to hear about it. Please e-mail us a photo and explain the issue as clearly as possible. We will quickly assess the situation and reply with instructions for next steps.
What is your warranty policy?
We build strong paddles and have one of the lowest breakage rates in the industry, but we know the unthinkable can happen. When it does, we honor all reasonable requests for repair or replacements.
Bending Branches paddles are guaranteed against manufacturing defects for one year from date of purchase.
Please fill out this form to the best of your ability to start your claim. A customer service representative will review your case and respond shortly with an RA number for your reference.
Paddles being returned for repair can be sent to:
Bending Branches
ATTN: RA# (we will give you this)
812 Prospect Court
Osceola, WI 54020
How do I return/exchange my paddle?
Please contact the retailer regarding their return policy.
If your paddle was purchased at bendingbranches.com, please contact us at [email protected] . We won’t make you fill out any time consuming forms or jump through too many hoops. We simply want to chat with you to figure out the best solution going forward. To help speed up your request, please include a copy of your receipt and your reason for return within 30 days of purchase. Returns must be in unused condition and returned in their original packaging.
Please reference the Return Authorization (RA) number that we give you on the outside of the box as follows:
Bending Branches
ATTN: RA# (we will give you this)
812 Prospect Court
Osceola, WI 54020
Once your return has been received, we will inspect the paddle and notify you of your refund status. If your request is approved, a credit will be applied to the original method of payment. Freight charges cannot be credited.
What size paddle do I need?
Can I continue using my paddle if it has a slight break/crack/issue?
It's best to reach out to us as soon as you notice an issue. Usually we can repair small issues if found right away. Email photos to [email protected] and we can better evaluate your paddle's unique situation.
Can I order a replacement part for my paddle?
Since we manufacture each paddle with precision, we do not offer generic replacement parts. We prefer to have you send us your remaining components to ensure that we have a perfect fit on your replacement. Please email [email protected] a photo of the paddle and/or see above question regarding return for review or repair instructions.
Caring for my wood paddle?
All of our wooden paddles are built with a Rockgard® tip; either black or caramel in color. Once our paddles reach the finishing area, they are ready for varnish. We hand dip our paddles in a mixture of varnish and mineral spirits and allow them to drip dry. This process is manually repeated four times.
Once the final dip is dry, we complete the process by burnishing the drip residue off the tip of the paddle. Sometimes this leaves a worn appearance, and it is generally more pronounced on our black Rockgard® tips. This is normal and will not affect the performance of your paddle.
We hand dip our paddles to give them an even finish, versus a spotty or uneven finish that spray varnish produces. Our process is also more beneficial for our employees and the environment as excess varnish is not emitted into the atmosphere.
Click here for our simple maintenance instructions and video. If you have any questions, please give us a call: (715) 755-3405. If you choose to return your paddle for review or repair, please see question above regarding returns.
How do I clean my composite kayak paddle?
Do you offer paddle extenders?
We currently do not offer a kayak paddle extender. If your recreational or touring kayak paddle is too short, please take a look at our extra-long kayak paddles like the Impression Solo or our kayak fishing paddles, which are ideal for wider kayaks and solo paddling a canoe. They are available up to 280cm.
We also offer an adjustable length ferrule system—the Versa-Lok™—that offers 15cm of additional length. Shop Versa-Lok™ paddles here.
Do Bending Branches paddles float?
All Bending Branches paddles float. Wood is naturally buoyant and our composite paddles come reinforced with foam plugs that trap air inside the shaft to keep it afloat and water out to prevent leaks for the lifetime of the paddle.
Do you offer custom paddles?
We commonly get questions about whether we can build custom paddles for our customers. Examples include: Can I get a different grip, decorative designs, unfinished paddles, etc.
Here at Bending Branches, we are a lean, build-to-order, United States manufacturer that requires standard product in order to keep our costs competitive. Therefore, we do not accept custom, non-standard product requests for new paddles. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Can I have my current paddle adjusted/altered?
We commonly get questions from customers about changing their current Bending Branches paddle. Examples include: Can I get my paddle shortened, lengthened, a different grip/ferrule, change the ovalization, etc.
Here at Bending Branches, we are a lean, build-to-order, United States manufacturer that requires standard product in order to keep our costs competitive. Therefore, we do not accept custom, non-standard product requests for current or new paddles. Additionally, this manufacturing process means it's incredibly costly for us to manipulate an existing product, making it cost prohibitive for the consumer. In many cases, the cost of manipulation can be even more expensive than it would be to simply purchase a new paddle to fit the desired application.
Can I tighten the bolt on my Versa-Lok™ ferrule?
The Versa-Lok™ bolt is precision tightened to maximize performance. Adjustments may
cause undue stress, failure and void warranty. If loosened, the clamping mechanism may not lock tight enough onto the ferrule insert and risks the chance of slipping. If tightened, undue stress will be placed on the internal components and shorten the lifespan of the product. If you believe that your bolt has come loose, please contact our customer service team.