Reddit mentions: The best stand-up paddles

How much and what distances do you intend to paddle? Also, are you primarily the only one using the paddle? The carbon in that paddle isn't actually doing much more than regular fiberglass. Carbon fiber is used to reduce weight while keeping strength. It's best when used with epoxy resin which greatly drops the weight to more traditional (wood, metal, nylon for shafts and blades) materials. The drawback to a carbon/epoxy construction is a decrease in durability.

So if weight reduction and some flex for longer paddles or racing is your goal, then you'll really enjoy a carbon shaft and blade (however, not the one above.) You'll also want to get a single shaft cut to your size. The adjustable paddles add weight because of the extra material for adjusting and sacrifice some ability for flex.

If your goal is just a mile or two casual fun trips two or three times a month then you really only need a nylon blade.

If you're wanting to stick with Amazon and that style adjustable paddle, I would look at the Red paddles they have listed. They are a reputable company that produces quality products. Something like this: Carbon shaft with nylon blade.

https://www.amazon.com/RED-Paddle-Co-Carbon-Nylon/dp/B07GYY4FPH/

If you're more interested in longer paddles/fitness/some racing then I would look at Quickblade, Werner or Hippostick. They all have websites loaded with info.

I like to paddle for fitness/distance at least once or twice a week. I've been using Quickblade V drive Vector Net for a year now and love it. For me, it has a nice catch and flex. I also have a Kialoa Makai adjustable shaft for friends. It's built like a tank and average weight.

OP, if you are paddling long distance flat water, you will get more bang for your buck with a bent shaft paddle. The bend makes for a much more efficient stroke resulting in you being able to go farther and feel less fatigued. I use this one:

Bending Branches BB Special Canoe Paddle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00404YQCU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_aYBPzbJMXWKEY

I use this paddle on flat spots on rivers here in the southeast. And when rapids come, I bust out my straight one. There Are a bunch out there though, have fun!

I'm fairly certain this is the same board my wife bought last year. She got it dirt cheap through something like a groupon or stacksocial deal. The paddle that came with it is exactly as you described, metal/plastic with no curve or angle to it at all.

The board itself has been a lot of fun and it's what we use for the kids. I finally got around to buying a replacement paddle for it this week. Bought this one off Amazon for less than $200 and liked it so much that I decided to keep it for myself and let my old paddle go with the SPK.

Then there is: https://www.amazon.com/AKUALA-Adjustable-Carbon-Paddle-Bamboo/dp/B076J89LG3/ref=sr_1_60?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1535987829&sr=1-60&keywords=adjustable+paddle+board+paddle

I'm a kayak guy, and I don't think you'll find a suitable trekking pole conversion product. The lateral force would trash the trekking pole.

As a very general matter, lighter paddles are going to be costlier paddles, which sucks. One thing to keep an eye on would be single-blade paddles like this one (https://www.amazon.com/attwood-11828-1-Attwood-Telescoping-Paddle/dp/B003DK3GSC/). I haven't tried it, but if I were hiking first and rafting second, I'd look at carrying a minimalist paddle. I might even just take half of a paddle (assuming it broke down in the center).