> I've got a quality wooden kayak paddle that's finish is wearing off around
> the edges. What is the best refinishing option? The present finish
> "appears" to be polyureth

I find varnish(and polyurethane) raises blisters and is slick when wet,which is all the time in use,so I've been using Tung oil as a finish on the paddles I've made.It is good enuf,looks good,and is easily renewed.