I'm really proud to pronounce that my paddle sponsor Double Dutch is back in business in the freestyle scene. As a market leader in the slalom and canoe polo scene and brand holder of Spider Paddles they've loads of experience with designing and producing paddles. Now they've used their experience to tune a paddle finely into a stylish freestyle paddle that fits the highest. The result is the Atomic FS. This model is on now, part of the 2008 Freestyle collection, together with the classic Spider Paddles models and their own trusted proton and kinetic.
In October last year I received one of the first prototypes of the Atomic FS to try it out to test its weakness and to form my opinion about it. My first impression was formed by its unbelievably light weight. I've paddled a lot of different brands, but I'm sure my hands never felt a paddle of only 800 grams before! I have to admit that this version missed a few layers compared to the final version, but even with those 200 grams extra it's a pleasure to the hands.
 Another first impression that you might have by seeing a DD paddle is the extreme crank in the shaft. Actually it's not that extreme as it looks. The angle and length of the crank is exactly the same as any other. The difference is a sharper angle back to the blade which enables to get the crank as close to the blades if you want. If you test this paddle it's important that you chose the right length and check if the crank on both sides fit your hand. Than make 50 strokes and you'll be used to it.Â
The light weight of the paddle is caused by handling the foam core blades. This is Double Dutch's new concept in freestyle paddles. A blade is made by compressing Kevlar and glassfyber with a foam core under high pressure. It results in a stiff, strong and light blade that enables you to force full power to your strokes.The danger of these blades is that once you got used to it, you don't want anything else. A lot of brands have a similar paddle in their collection and actually before I paddled DD I already paddled these kind of blades for two seasons. So for me this is a perfect addition to their collection, because I can finally use my favourite blades again. The difference between the Atomic FS and similar paddles of other brands is not in the quality. Thanks to the experience the quality of this paddle is guaranteed. You'll find the biggest difference in the price. I can asure you that on this point the Atomic FS will seperate himself from the rest of its kind.
I'm convinced this paddle belongs to the top paddles in style, quality and use, while in price it still belongs to the middle class. I'm happy to be able to have a paddle with these properties made in my own country by a good team of people I know. If you want to experience the style, service and quality of this company feel free to contact them or visit their new website www.doubledutch.com. You can always contact me with questions as well. And feel free, if you spot me on the water, to grab my blades and have a try yourself!
