How To Choose a Kayak Paddle

Base A Purchase Decision on Material, Blade Type and Paddling Style

Sep 7, 2009

Which type of kayak paddle to purchase is highly a matter of personal preference. Take the time to know paddle materials, parts and paddling style.

Kayak paddles have a blade at each end. They come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes and can be made from many different materials.

Paddle Materials

Plastic Paddles: Most beginner paddles have plastic blades. They are inexpensive and durable. However, they are heavy and can be difficult to use when compared to lighter, more expensive paddles

Wooden Paddles: Wooden paddles are fairly heavy and will require a moderate amount of maintenance. The varnish on the paddles will need to be maintained otherwise the paddles will soak up water and become damaged.

Carbon or Fiberglass Paddles: Carbon and fiberglass paddles are lightweight and strong, but are very expensive. These paddles are stiff and can help the kayaker develop a more powerful stroke.

Parts of the Paddle

Paddle Blades: Paddle blades can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. Asymmetrical blades, generally used for touring or racing, enter the water more cleanly when paddling forward. Large symmetrical paddles can power through the water quickly and are best suited for beginners. The feather is used to describe the angle (how much the blades are twisted) between the two blades on a kayak paddle. Some paddlers find it easier to combat wind resistance against the blade when paddling, while others find using a feathered paddle unnatural.

Paddle Shaft: Most paddle shafts are round. Some are oval or have grips so that the paddler can feel which way the blade is facing. Some of the more expensive paddles have bent shafts that put less emphasis on wrist movement. The majority of paddles are split, meaning that they break down into two pieces for easy storage.

Choosing a Paddle

Low Angle: Most recreational or touring kayakers use a low angle paddle stroke. These paddles will have longer, narrower blades. The blade with have a raised center line and two sides that slope away from the center, making the paddle easier to pull through the water.

High Angle: More aggressive kayakers will use a high angle paddle stroke which propels the kayak forward more efficiently. These paddles are shorter and and have shorter, wider blades.

Other important factors to consider when choosing a paddle include the width of the boat, the kayaker's body size and strength. A wider boat or a sit-on kayak will require a longer paddle. The taller the kayaker, the longer the paddle will be. Also, a heavier or stronger kayaker will require larger blades.

Taking time to choose the right paddle for each kayaker will make time on the water more comfortable and more enjoyable.

The copyright of the article How To Choose a Kayak Paddle in Whitewater Kayaking/Rafting is owned by Krista Sadlers. Permission to republish How To Choose a Kayak Paddle in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.