You can simplify the selection process by taking into account your needs, even though seeing the sheer number of kayak paddles available can be intimidating.The paddle shape, material composition, and length all affect how well the paddle performs in water.Whether you want a leisurely day on the water or an intense whitewater experience, you can find the paddle that's right for you.
Step 1: Decide what kind of kayaking you want to do.
Kayaks and paddles are rated according to the activity they are meant to be used for.You want a paddle that matches the purpose you have for it, no matter what kayak you choose.You can use the labels to make a decision.For short trips, recreational paddles are cheaper but heavier.For day trips in lakes and slow rivers, touring paddles are used.Lighter paddles with plastic or fiberglass blades are possible.Performance paddles can be used by enthusiasts.They are made of lightweight material.Whitewater paddles need to be lightweight.They are usually carbon or fiberglass.
Step 2: A longer paddle is better for high-angle paddling.
Your paddle is oriented in a high angle.The paddle blades sweep through the water close to the kayak as they raise high in the air.The purpose of this type of paddling is to generate speed and power, so you want short, rounded paddle blades on a shorter paddle.People who want to go fast use this style.It's important to remember that paddles designed for this style need more strength to use.
Step 3: For low-angle paddling, choose longer paddles.
Low-angle paddling happens when you hold the paddle above the water.Thin blades are more useful for this style.You can propel your kayak with these paddles.This type of paddling is great for long trips.
Step 4: Fight wind resistance by selecting feathered blades.
There are paddles with blades pointing in different directions.feathering is useful if you plan on traveling in windy areas.The kayak will be easier to propel in these conditions.If you have concerns about your arm strength, avoid feathered blades.
Step 5: You can change the blade feathering with a paddle.
There are paddles that have different types of ferrules.The paddle shaft has numbers on it indicating the feathering setting.The blades can be adjusted whenever you need to.If you kayak in many different environments, this is helpful.
Step 6: The kayak has a width.
Measure your kayak from side to side with a tape measure.The length of the paddle depends on the kayak's width.The longer your paddle takes to reach the water, the wider your boat is.Knowing the features of your kayak is important.Performance racing kayaks are thinner than whitewater kayaks.
Step 7: Take your torso size and measure it.
Pretend you are going kayaking by sitting in a chair.Place your feet on the floor and rest your back against the chair.Measure from the tip of your nose down to your legs using a tape measure.Knowing your torso height can give you an idea of how long your paddle needs to be.People under 165 cm tall use paddles under 220 cm long.People over 183 cm (72 in) tall use paddles.People between 165 cm and 220 cm are more likely to use paddles.For ideas on what paddle size is right for you, search for "kayak paddle sizing charts" online.
Step 8: If the kayak's seat is higher up, choose a shorter paddle.
The length of the paddle can be affected by the seat size.It will be easier to reach the water if the seat is high.You need to get a slightly longer paddle in order to dip its blades into the water if you have a lower seat.A high seat rises from the bottom of the kayak.The seat in your kayak is higher up than someone's, so you might need a shorter paddle.To test the seat, sit in your kayak.You can measure the seat's height with a tape measure.
Step 9: Hold your arm up to the paddle and see if it works.
Stand next to the paddle.Place your hand over the paddle blade as you raise your arm.Wrap your fingers over the blade if the paddle is the correct size.The paddle is too long if you can't reach the blade.The paddle is too short if your hand goes over it.If you need to make an exchange, make sure the company has a good return policy.The paddle should be tested when it arrives.
Step 10: Choose a shaft made of aluminum for its strength.
The cheapest variety is aluminum shafts.They are strong and thick, making them ideal for beginners.In cool weather, aluminum gets cold because it is heavy.The cold metal might affect your hands.Sometimes a paddle's shaft and blades are made of different materials.When choosing a paddle, take both parts into account.The range of aluminum paddles is between 40 and 100 dollars.
Step 11: A carbon-fiber shaft is needed for a lightweight paddle.
The lightest variety is carbon-fiber.It's the best choice for long-distance travel and paddling.They are more prone to break when you use this style of shaft.If you have shoulder or joint problems, this shaft style can be helpful.The paddles are made of carbon-fiber.
Step 12: You can get a fiberglass shaft.
The fiberglass shafts fall between aluminum and carbon-fiber in strength.It's a good option for most situations.The shafts come in a variety of colors and designs.The shafts are a good choice for experienced kayakers.The range of fiberglass paddles is between $50 and $200.
Step 13: It's easier to store a collapsible paddle.
The shafts on some paddles can break apart.The paddles can be stored in a backpack or kayak compartment.Since your paddles will eventually break, it is helpful to have a spare collapsible paddle.The paddles cost between $100 and $300USD.
Step 14: An oval-shaped shaft is better for paddling.
The shaft style is easier to grip.Oval-shaped shafts can be used to orient the paddle blades.You won't tire out as fast if this leads to a more efficient stroke.You can see the shape of the shaft by looking at its ends.To make sure you get the kind you want, inspect the shape of the standard shafts.The paddles cost anywhere from $45 to $300USD.
Step 15: You can choose a bent shaft for more comfortable paddling.
Compared to regular paddles, bent paddles are easier to use.You can position your hands better with the bends in the shaft.You can paddle with more energy and put less stress on your joints.The cost of bicyle shafts is between $275 and $400USD.
Step 16: Plastic or nylon blades can be used for long periods of time.
The plastic and nylon blades are light.They can get you through shallow, rocky areas without breaking.They are the cheapest option available.The blades are less efficient because of their flexibility.Your strokes don't move the kayak as far as other blades.If your blade makes contact with rocks or solid ground, choose this.
Step 17: Choose carbon-fiber blades for efficient paddling.
The lightest blades are these.Pair them with carbon-fiber shafts.You will be able to generate power and travel long distances with these blades.In rough areas, be careful with carbon paddles.There are rocks or solid ground where your blades can break.
Step 18: The fiberglass blades can be used for a lot of things.
fiberglass allows you to handle most kayaking situations.It costs less than carbon because it is less durable.The blades come in a wide range of colors and styles.People with arm and shoulder issues can benefit from fiberglass and carbon.fiberglass is more durable than efficiency.
Step 19: Bigger paddle blades will generate more power.
If you can keep up a consistent pace, the blades will propel your kayak faster and more efficiently.While using this blade size, you will get a workout.Thinner blades may be better for you if you are worried about tiring out.Bigger kayakers should try longer blades.You can keep your balance with the extra length.The blade size is used for whitewater kayaking.
Step 20: To paddle long distances, choose thinner blades.
Thinner blades are a great choice for kayaks.You can move your kayak at a gentle pace with them.If you don't need a lot of speed, use smaller blades.The shape of the blades makes them use less energy to move.
Step 21: You can use asymmetrical blades for more efficient paddling.
As you kayak more, you may want to switch to asymmetrical blades.The blades are not straight from side to side.Asymmetrical blades are useful for paddling.The blades can wear you down more quickly than regular blades.If you do low-angle paddling,symmetrical blades work best.