Thanks for responding. Actually I was going to buy a real expensive paddle in the 200-320 dollar range. I presently have bending branches wooden paddles ( with Kevlar reinforcement on the paddle face) 220 and 230cm which are fairly light at around 28-29 ounces. I like the paddles but would like lighter paddles. As far as length, when I'm in the rear of the boat the 220 works but requires precision to place paddle close to the boat. The 230 works ok. My question is how to know if I should get a 240cm paddle. I would hate to spend $300+ and figure out I need a different length.