Buying a Kayak Paddle- All You Need to Know

A kayak or Canoe without a paddle becomes more like a board thrown into the river and left to float without direction. The specifications of your kayak paddle can improve your kayaking experience or mar it. That is why we have written this guide to help you choose the right paddle (s) for your kayak. Read through as we give you the needed tips for making the right choice of paddles for your kayak.

Factors to consider when buying kayak paddles

How long and big your paddle should be is determined by the size of the kayak and the height of the paddler. The bigger/wider the kayak, the longer and stronger the paddle should be. In the same bid, tall paddlers should choose tall paddles and vice versa. 

Your paddle blade has an important role to play in your kayaking. If the blade is heavy, the paddle will be heavy as well and this would slow down paddling. People prefer light paddle blades as they account for faster paddling and less fatigue. Paddle blades are made from different materials like carbon fiber, fiberglass, and plastic. Carbon fiber blades are the most durable and most expensive as well.

Also, paddle blades come in different designs. The most common these days is the dihedral design. They are made lightweight and wide for faster strokes.

Paddle blade shapes

• Low angle- ideal for cruise or touring kayaking. They are made to bend more horizontally when paddling. They are usually long and thin
• High angle- this is the opposite of low angle blades. They are used more in a vertical position and for faster paddling like watersports or transport.
• Dihedral- double-faced blades that are designed to penetrate water more and move faster. They are becoming more popular these days.
• Winged- these are designed for speed. They have a groove made in their center to push more water backward so that the kayak, board, or Canoe goes faster.

And now to the grips. Short shafts are ideal for recreational purposes while the long ones paddle faster and are used for watersports. Paddle shafts are made from a variety of materials such as aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, and carbon. Aluminum shafts are the most common and are pocket friendly too. A composite shaft(consisting of 2 or more materials) is the most durable and consequently, most expensive.

Paddle Shaft designs

• Ferrule vs no ferrule- A paddle with ferrule is twistable and can be dismantled anytime for easier storage. This essentially means that there is a joint where the paddle can be dismantled or twisted to achieve different blade positions.

• Straight vs bent shafts- Your paddle can come with a bent shaft or a straight one. While some people prefer the bent shafts, straight ones are more common. A bent shaft paddle typically allows your wrist to be in one place as you paddle.

A feathered paddle has different angles for the two blades. I.e, the two blades do not rest horizontally on the ground, rather one rests while the other is set at a different angle. Unfeathered paddles on the other hand are ones with equal blade angles. The idea behind feathered paddles is to give them resistance against the wind and strong currents.

Kayak paddles are made from different materials. The type of material used in making a paddle affects its durability and speed. The most common materials include

Plastic paddles are relatively durable and inexpensive. Though they weigh higher than other materials,  they are a good choice of paddles. However, they are not good at fast paddling due to their weight. Ideal for recreational kayaking and touring.

Wooden paddles are lightweight and well crafted for an aesthetic vintage look. Wooden paddles are strong and inexpensive as well.

Aluminum-made paddles are very cost-friendly. They are sturdy but heavy. Would be a good choice for kayaking activities that do not require speed.

Paddles made from fiberglass are sturdy and light. Overall, they are durable and can be used for most kayaking activities.

• Carbon fiber

Kayak paddles made from carbon fiber combine both lightweight and sturdiness. They are the most durable and consequently, the most expensive kayak paddles. They are ideal for Kayaking activities.

Conclusion

Getting the right paddle for your kayak will go a long way in determining your kayaking satisfaction. We hope this article has given you enough insight into what you should consider before buying a kayak paddle. With all these known, we believe it is about time you ordered your quality kayak paddles from Recreation Outfitters. Your satisfaction is our priority.

Recreation Outfitters top brands for Kayak paddles

Sea Eagle Kayaks and Canoes

• 7'10" 4-Part Paddle
• 8' 4 Part Asymmetric Paddle

Advanced Elements Kayaks and accessories

• Advanced Elements - Ultralite Pack Paddle | 787614 
• Advanced Elements - Orbit 4-Part Paddle | 787612

Solstice Watersports

• SOL Carbon Blaster Three-Piece Travel Paddle
• 4-Piece Convertible SUP/Kayak Paddle

Aqua Marina

• Aqua Marina - CARBON PRO Adjustable Carbon Fiber ISUP Paddle (3 Sections)
• Aqua Marina - SPORTS III Adjustable Aluminum ISUP Paddle.