Built for Wilderness Travel

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Designed in collaboration with Hap Wilson, The Explorer canoe paddle reflects decades of wilderness travel experience and the practical demands of life on the water, from remote canoe routes to the everyday work of operating a wilderness ecolodge in Temagami.

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Made to Order — Estimated Ship Date: 2–3 Weeks

The Explorer is a limited edition build-to-order canoe paddle. Thus, each paddle is individually handcrafted after your order is placed. Please allow 2–3 weeks for production before shipping. During periods of high demand, build times may extend slightly.

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The Explorer Canoe Paddle Features:

Shape

• Its traditional beavertail profile features a shorter teardrop-shaped blade that performs exceptionally well in shallow water while maintaining excellent power and efficiency. The longer shaft and shorter blade combination provides outstanding maneuverability for draws, sweeps, and turning strokes, making The Explorer is a versatile solid wood tripping paddle capable of handling everything from technical rivers and moving water to large open lakes.

Grip

• The Explorer paddle is fitted with our Woodland grip, a Northwoods-inspired design that offers comfort during long days on the water while providing precise control when conditions demand it.

Finishes

• To withstand the realities of wilderness travel, The Explorer canoe paddle features Badger‘s customary oil finish with a triple-dipped, graphite-infused epoxy-coated blade tip that helps protect the paddle’s highest-wear area from rocks and shallow river bottoms.

Limited Edition

Each paddle is laser engraved with exclusive artwork hand drawn by Hap Wilson, his signature, and an individual serialized build number:

Example 001 • THE EXPLORER • 2026

Includes

• Badger Paddle Sock.

Sizing

• The Explorer is available in multiple lengths (measured in inches): 51, 54, 57, 60, 63.  Full specs are available on The Explorer canoe paddle page. See Sizing Your Badger Canoe Paddle for guidance to help select the appropriate length for you.

Build Time

Each paddle is individually handcrafted after your order is placed. Please allow 2–3 weeks for production, plus shipping time. During periods of high demand, build times may extend slightly.

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About Hap Wilson

Hap Wilson is an explorer, artist, author, and cartographer who has spent a lifetime travelling Canada’s rivers and wild places. His books, maps, and artwork have helped countless paddlers plan their own journeys into the backcountry. Today, Hap and his wife Andrea welcome visitors to Cabin Falls Ecolodge, where they continue to share their passion for wilderness travel, conservation, and life on the water.