Newbie paddle advice

Hi guys I'm new to forum and was looking for some advice. I got into SUP recently and am around 4 weeks into progressing into the surf.

I got a waterborn evoke 2017 and have been pretty happy with it compared to SUPs I have used in the past. The paddle I got with the board was a standard aluminium adjustable.

When paddling for a wave on Friday the blade snapped clean off the shaft.

Basically I wanted to know is this normal with a basic paddle and what would you recommend as a replacement? Are carbon paddles stronger or would a more high quality Alu paddle be better? Any particular brands or bargains out there?

AndyR is pretty much on the money but what might be looking at is the Fanatic Carbon Innegra paddles. They're pretty tough and cheaper than a full carbon paddle. I think the 2017 models have replaced the Innegra with Kevlar, which if utilised properly will make the paddles even tougher.

I don't have any affiliation with a SUP brand.

Definitely worth spending a little more on a paddle if you can afford too IMHO. If you have only ever used a cheaper Ali paddle you will be pleasantly surprised how much better it feels with a good paddle.

I don't think you need full carbon if you are mostly surfing

There is 2 KeNalu and 1 Kialoa paddles on the buy and sell, which all look pretty good depending on how long you like your paddle and blade size.

All the big board manufacturers will make a reasonable paddle and most have varying price points. The fanatics get the good reviews (I haven't actually used any)

I have an older KeNalu Wiki which I am really happy with. So would highly recommend.

For better or worse, paddles come with a zillion options. There are a few decisions you will have to make (i.e. material/price/shaft shape/blade shape/etc.) but four key factors are:

1. Length: For surfing get one that is no more than 4" taller than you are.
2. Blade size: Not too big for surfing - 80-85 sq-in is sufficient for surfing. Logic might tell you than bigger is better - it isn't for surfing.
3. Handle type: If you can, try it (feel it in your hand) - there are "T" shape and others shapes. You can also have the handle wrapped in spongy material. I like the "T" shape.
4. Paddle flex: This is trickier, but a paddle with more flex will be easier on your joints.

Others will give better advice - above are my suggestions and what worked for me (I mostly surf).

And if you need an adjustable paddle, beware of the paddles that have the joints around where you will place your hands. If you need an adjustable so you can make it shorter for travel/storage, look at the 2- or 3-piece paddles that fit together seamlessly (and watertight) rather than adjustable so you don't have to deal with joints.

And then wife right right JEG ( if you still have room)

Thanks everyone for the great advice. The Surfboard Warehouse covered the original paddle under warranty and instead of receiving a like for like replacement I paid the difference to upgrade to a Waterborn F1 Carbon paddle which will hopefully suffice for at least the near future! Looking forward to trying it out and seeing what the difference is! As i get further into it i expect i'll be coming back to the advice on this post for another upgrade!