Kayak Paddles

Kayak paddles are the most vital among your equipment in that they are key to all movement, steering and propulsion of your kayak. They are your single most important gear investment, second to your kayak, of course. We're going to have a look at some options for kayak paddles.

• Touring Paddles. These are commonly sold as two-piece models, are easily stored as well as transported. They range between 210 and 240 centimeters long. If you are starting out with this type of paddle, try a 220 cm one. It's a perfect length for you to begin with until you find one that works best for you.
• Whitewater Paddles. These are between 191 and 200 centimeters long, are commonly one-piece with epoxy blades and a fiberglass shaft, and are extremely durable.

How to "size" a paddle: Grip the shaft, placing it on top of your head with your hands four or five inches from the blades and your elbows at 90 degrees.

Wider blades, which are between 6 to 8 inches, are made to provide increased resistance. They are more powerful in terms of acceleration than narrow blades. However, the added width on these blades have been known to cause more wrist, arm and shoulder strain.

The longer, more narrow blades on touring paddles lessen overall power and acceleration. However they cause less strain to the joints, and are more conducive to longer trips on a loaded kayak.

An extreme paddle known as a “wing” is favored by kayak races. It features a pronounced scoop on the blade which makes for more “bite” on the water when doing a forward stroke. This type of blade takes more mastery though.

Paddles that are the lightest in weight–usually less than two pounds– tend to be the most expensive. Those over three pounds are less expensive. While the difference in weight between paddles might seem insignificant, a whole day of paddling will spell the difference, especially when your arms get cracking! Per mile, an average paddle can make about one thousand paddle strokes, so the extra ounces in paddle weight do count heavily.

When purchasing a paddle, it would be wise to invest in one that offers both comfort and light weight. More money spent on a lightweight, high quality paddle will serve you better in the long run than a cheaper, heavier paddle. If you are looking to do some distance kayaking on flat water, purchase the lightest paddle possible. More challenging waters call for sturdier paddles, however, so find one that balances durability, weight and cost.

There exists no rule or formula when it comes to correct paddle length. However, you must know the most basic considerations. Generally, a touring paddle is between 210 to 240 centimeters in length. If you want to find the best possible fit for you, raise your right arm in a straight line over your head. Take a paddle and stand it on end. If the top of your hand and the top of the uppermost blade meet, you have a good-sized paddle that's proportionate to your size.

A paddle that is suited to your size and strength will be the best choice for you and your kayaking. Remember that the wider the kayak, the longer the paddle needed; the narrower the kayak, the shorter the paddle needed. You will get more leverage for strokes using a longer paddle, but they require more work. Shorter paddles make for smoother acceleration and pace, and require less effort with each stroke.

In a feathered paddle, the blades are on the same plane, and they are rotated at a certain angle on the axis of the shaft. They provide less resistance in the event of a headwind and are best in winds that come from the side. They don't require extreme forearm and wrist motion, which means using them means less possibility for tendonitis.

Certain paddles are made for particular conditions, therefore not all paddles are made for equal performance. The best option is to purchase a breakdown paddle that can adjust to either a feathered or unfeathered position. This is a two-piece type of paddle.

Kayak paddles are made from an assortment of different materials. The composition of these materials determines the overall weight, strength, durability and cost of a paddle. Those that are the least expensive are usually heavier, and come with plastic blades and metal shafts. Those made from wood and fiberglass are usually priced moderately. Wooden paddles can be lighter or just as light as fiberglass paddles, but they are less durable. The most expensive and lightweight out of all paddle materials are those made from carbon fiber, graphite or Kevlar. These, however, may be less durable.