Aqua Bound’s Posi-Lok™ vs. Snap-Button Ferrule Systems
3-minute read
At Aqua-Bound we use three different ferrule systems for our Sting Ray and Manta Ray kayak paddles: the snap-button ferrule for our fiberglass shafts, and the Posi-Lok™ and Versa-Lok™ ferrules for our carbon shafts. Here, we’ll focus on comparing the Posi-Lok™ with the snap-button ferrule.
(photo by Thrive Visuals)
(What’s the ferrule, you ask? Good question: the ferrule system is how the two halves of a kayak paddle fasten together to become one piece.)
Snap-Button Ferrule System
The snap-button ferrule is a very common ferrule system across the kayak paddle industry. It consists of a simple mechanism that snaps into one of two or three holes drilled in the shaft.
The hole you decide to use will determine how you feather the paddle. Feathering refers to adjusting the blade angles individually in order to paddle efficiently in wind (Read Kayak Paddle Feathering: What is it and Why Does It Matter?).
With a snap-button ferrule you commonly have one or two options for paddle feathering, maybe 30º and 60º.
Our Sting Ray Fiberglass and Manta Ray Fiberglass kayak paddles are available with the snap-button ferrule if you’re wanting to save a little money and don’t mind a simple yet very snug ferrule.
Posi-Lok™ Ferrule System
Our Posi-Lok™ ferrule system was developed by the engineers at Aqua Bound. It has several advantages over the snap-button ferrule:
- The parts are constructed of carbon, which is much stronger than plastic, lighter than fiberglass and won’t rust like metal (especially helpful in saltwater).
- It offers multiple feathering angles in 15º increments.
- It’s extremely easy to use and adjust, even as you’re paddling
- It fits tightly with no wiggle
- Since it’s an external ferrule, sand and debris can’t collect inside your paddle shaft. That means less maintenance for you.
Our paddles with a carbon shaft (Sting Ray Carbon, Sting Ray Hybrid, Manta Ray Carbon and Manta Ray Hybrid) all come with the Posi-Lok™ ferrule. And our highest-end performance paddles, the Whiskey and Tango, use the Posi-Lok™, as well.
Which is the Ferrule System for You?
This may be decided for you depending on your budget. Our most affordable paddles don’t offer the Posi-Lok™ ferrule, only the snap-button. But you’ll still get a durable, snug-fitting ferrule system you won’t need to worry about.
If your budget allows you into the mid-price range of a Hybrid or Carbon Ray series paddle, you’ll enjoy the extra sophistication and modern technology with the Posi-Lok™ ferrule.
Do you have a question this article didn’t cover? Contact our Wisconsin-based Customer Service team today: 715-755-3405 • [email protected]
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