HYPR Liberator Gen 2 – 8.5" Carbon Paddle Confidence. Cadence. Control. 8.8.5 Liberator 5 Liberator 8.5 Liberator 8.5 Liberator 8.5 Liberator The HYPR Liberator Gen 2 (8.5") is built for paddlers who like a bit more blade under the water — a wider catch zone with that signature HYPR “snap” off the exit. Like its smaller sibling, the 8.5 keeps the same trusted carbon construction, race-ready profile, and Gen 2 updates to the shaft geometry and paddle feel — only now, scaled for those who like a fuller stroke. Key updates in Gen 2: ✅ Same carbon fibre ovalized shaft, now tuned for comfort and faster transitions ✅ Refined blade angle for smoother, more efficient power transfer ✅ Updated flex profile to stay responsive even with the wider face ✅ Concave sprint blade, scaled to 8.5" width for a strong but clean catch This is the same Liberator feel — just with a bit more surface to lean into when you want it. Specs Blade Width: 8.5” Blade Area: Approx. 135–140 sq in Shaft: Carbon fibre, Gen 2 ergonomics Weight: ~470–490g range (varies slightly by cut) Ideal for: Paddlers who prefer a wider catch zone, slightly lower cadence strokes, or more drive per pull