Aqua Bound
Joe Matuska received his first kayak paddle and boat in 1973 as a graduation gift. After swimming several times during his first outing with them, he came home with a broken paddle and a broken boat. Figuring that someone with a degree in Medical Microbiology should be able to fix a broken paddle and boat, he went to work on them. In 1991, Aqua-Bound was born in Surrey, British, Columbia manufacturing paddles for whitewater, touring and recreational kayaking and canoeing. Aqua-Bound quickly became the number one producer of plastic-bladed kayak paddles as they were the first to introduce gas-assist molded paddle blades to the industry. This technology made durable paddles at lighter weights possible. Joe spent a large amount of his time working the phones and growing his business by providing excellent customer service. In 2008, Branches LLC purchased Aqua-Bound Technologies from Joe and his partners and moved the company to Osceola, WI USA. The paddles are still built here with the same passion for extraordinary quality and service.
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FAQ's
- Whats the difference between the Aqua Bound MantaRay and StingRay Paddles?The Manta Ray and Sting Ray paddles are Aqua Bound favorites, each with its own strengths. The Manta Ray offers a powerful, high-angle blade that’s perfect for strong, fast strokes, making it ideal for paddlers looking for maximum power and acceleration. The Sting Ray, on the other hand, features a slimmer, low-angle blade, giving you a more relaxed, efficient stroke for longer trips with less fatigue. Whether you’re after speed with the Manta Ray or all-day endurance with the Sting Ray, both deliver Aqua Bound’s premium performance and durability on the water.
- Can I try Aqua Bound Paddles before I buy?
Yes! We have Hybrid and Carbon StingRays and MantaRays on Posilok and Versalok ferrules plus Tangos and Whiskey paddles available to try at the shop in Shepperton Marina! No need to book just come and see us!
- What is the Aqua Bound Versa-Lok Ferrule?
The Aqua Bound Versa-Lok adjustable ferrule system allows you to easily extend your paddle length by up to 15cm. It also offers stepless feather adjustment, enabling you to set the blade angle precisely to suit both left- and right-handed paddlers.
Choose the Aqua Bound Versa-Lok if you:
- Switch between paddling techniques or environments: Adapt the paddle length and feather angle to suit different conditions and techniques seamlessly.
- Use multiple kayaks of different widths: Easily adjust the paddle to match each boat’s size for optimal control.
- Share your paddle with others of varying heights: Quickly adjust to accommodate different paddlers without needing multiple paddles.
- What is Aqua Bounds Lam-Lok Technology?
Aqua Bound’s Lam-Lok technology is an advanced method that strengthens and protects paddle blades by binding the laminated layers together using aramid thread (a highly durable fiber, often used in aerospace and protective gear). This innovative process enhances the paddle’s durability and performance, making it ideal for paddlers who demand longevity from their gear.
- Prevents Delamination: Lam-Lok technology securely binds the blade layers, preventing separation and extending the paddle's life, even under tough conditions.
- Impact Resistance: The aramid thread reinforcement adds strength, reducing the risk of cracks or chips from impact with rocks, branches, or other obstacles.
- Increased Abrasion Resistance: With a reinforced structure, Lam-Lok blades are better able to withstand scrapes, ensuring they stay in good condition through frequent use.
- What is the difference between the Posi-Lok and Versa-lok Ferrule systems?
Aqua Bound Posi-Lok® Ferrule System
The Posi-Lok® ferrule system is featured on Aqua Bound’s Ray Series paddles, as well as their high-performance models like the Whiskey, Tango, and Tetra. Designed with simplicity and reliability in mind, it allows you to easily break down your paddle into two pieces for convenient transport and storage. Adjusting the feather angle is quick and intuitive, with secure 15° increments to suit both left- and right-handed paddlers.
What sets the Posi-Lok® apart is its dual-button release made from durable plastic, which resists jamming from sand, grit, or salt—something coil-spring ferrules often struggle with. It requires virtually no maintenance and delivers a rock-solid, wiggle-free connection every time you paddle.
Aqua Bound Versa-Lok® Ferrule System
The Versa-Lok® ferrule system is Aqua Bound’s adjustable-length solution, found on a variety of performance paddles including some in the Whiskey and Tango lines. It combines all the benefits of the Posi-Lok® system—like smooth feathering in 15° increments and a secure, grit-resistant connection—with the added flexibility of adjustable shaft length.
Thanks to a low-profile cam lever, you can extend or shorten the paddle by up to 15 cm, which is especially useful for paddlers who switch between boats, share gear, or want to fine-tune their setup for different water conditions. The locking mechanism is easy to operate, holds strong, and doesn’t require tools for adjustment.