The Koa paddle is a relatively light paddle with a very high swing weight. With its aerodynamic aperture, and frameless design it swings even faster. The treated carbon face has a gritty texture that creates massive spin and slice. It has a unique Polynesian/Hawaiian design that makes it very distinctive. It's name "Koa" means Warrior in Hawaiian language. And Koa is a type of tree indigent to the Hawaiian Islands in which its wood is some of the hardest found on the planet, and many ancient Polynesians utilized Koa wood to craft weapons and tools. With the Kevlar face, you'll feel like you have an indestructible Polynesian weapon! The Koa paddle in non-USAPA approved.