Kayaking paddles come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and materials. This is why finding the right paddle for your kayak style is so important. Today, we’re going to provide you with some important information to help you make the right decision.
The ideal paddle length is determined by several factors. This includes your height, the type of kayaking you plan to engage in, and the size of your kayak. The wider the kayak, the longer the paddle needed to maintain comfortable and effective strokes.
This is only a brief snapshot of the overall story. Below, we’ll get into all of the specific things you need to know! Let’s get started.
Key Components of a Kayak Paddle
Before we get too deep into specifics, we should start by explaining the mechanical components that make up a paddle.
Blade
This is the flat part of the paddle that you dip into the water to propel the kayak forward. Blades come in various shapes and sizes, each affecting the efficiency and style of paddling. They're usually made of lightweight materials like plastic, fibreglass, carbon fibre, or wood.
Shaft
A shaft is the long, cylindrical part of the paddle that you hold onto while paddling. It connects the two blades or ends together. Shafts are typically made of lightweight materials like aluminium, fibreglass, or carbon fibre.
Some paddles have adjustable shafts that allow you to change the length to suit your preference or match the type of paddling you're doing. Some paddles are one piece but most commonly, paddles are two piece or split meaning the paddle separates or comes apart in the middle.
Grip
As you can probably guess, the grip is the section that you hold onto with your hands. It's usually located at the top of the shaft and is designed to be ergonomic and comfortable to hold. Grips can vary in shape and material, you may see a small variation in the shaft shape to enable a better grip although some paddles maintain a round or oval shape only, not a specific pattern.
Ferrule
The ferrule is the joint on a two piece paddle where the shafts connect to the blade. It allows you to feather the paddle, meaning you can adjust the angle of the blades relative to each other. Often referred to as an offset, this can help reduce wind resistance, minimise strain on your wrists while paddling and even create an increase in speed and efficiency. On a one piece paddle there is no adjustment and the blades remain in a fixed position.
Drip Rings
This is one component that you may be less familiar with. Drip rings are small rubber rings located on the shaft near the blades. They're designed to minimise water from dripping down the shaft and reaching your hands while paddling. Overall, drip rings are designed to keep you drier and more comfortable.
Where to Start
Finding the right size and style can even be a challenge for even the most seasoned paddler. This is why we’ve compiled a quick list of tips and tricks to inform your next purchase.
Stroke Style/Type of Kayaking
Remember, kayaking is a sport that encompasses a large spectrum of styles. As a result, the paddle length will vary depending on the type of kayaking you plan to engage in.
For sprint racing or white-water kayaking, shorter paddles (185cm – 200cm) are preferable for quick, powerful strokes. The most common paddle length (210-220 cm) is suited to sea kayaking and ski paddling. Longer paddles (up to 240 cm) generally suit touring and most recreational paddling, facilitating a natural rhythmic stroke.
If you own a fishing kayak, which often features wider bodies and higher seats, a minimum 220cm paddle is recommended.
Blade Shape and Style
High-angled blades are short and wide, designed for powerful, fast strokes in racing or rough waters. Low-angled blades are longer and narrower, ideal for stable, less tiring strokes in sea kayaking or long-distance touring.
Speciality paddles like Mid Wing and Greenland paddles also cater to specific needs and styles, offering advantages in speed and low-impact paddling respectively. There are various sizes of mid wing paddles available to suit different size paddlers and the desired paddle stroke.
One or Two Piece?
Two-piece paddles offer easy storage, transport, and adjustable length and feathering options, depending on the type of joiner. On the other hand, one-piece paddles are generally stronger, of similar weight; however you need to consider storage and transport of your paddle as it is a fixed length.
Two-piece paddles are sometimes favoured by kayakers who need something convenient and versatile for a variety of different conditions. The ability to adjust the length and feathering angle of two-piece paddles also allows for personalised comfort and the ability to adjust the paddle to suit the paddling conditions. However, one-piece paddles are known for maximum durability and minimal maintenance, which makes them a good option for long-term use in demanding kayaking environments.
One piece paddles are suited for tour or hire groups as well as they require very little maintenance.
Adjustable or Fixed Feather?
The feather, or the angle between the blades, affects performance and personal comfort. Adjustable feathering can help adapt the paddle to various conditions and styles, allowing one blade to slice the air efficiently while the other pulls through the water. A 60 degree angle is the most typical for recreational and touring paddlers whilst ski and whitewater paddlers will vary from 30 - 45 degrees depending on the water conditions.
Fixed feathering, where the blades are permanently set at a specific angle, allows for more simplicity and consistency in your paddling technique. This way, you can also focus more on stroke rhythm and developing muscle memory.
We recommend you experiment with different feathering angles to determine which angle best suits you and your paddling style.
Shaft Style
While most paddles have a straight shaft, bent or crankshafts offer the unique advantage of reducing strain on wrists and elbows, which is beneficial for anyone planning to paddle for long distances or venture out into rough waters.
The ergonomic design of a bent shaft generally lends itself to a more natural hand position, In contrast, straight shafts may cause more strain on the wrists and elbows over extended periods, especially in challenging conditions.
Reach Out to the Experts
If you really want to find the right paddle for your kayak style, there’s no better resource than an industry expert. Whenever you stop by our kayak shop in Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle or the Gold Coast, you’ll be greeted by staff who are passionate about all things kayaking.
As paddlers ourselves, we love to give our expert tips and advice to help you find the perfect option. We also stock a great range of state-of-the-art paddles for all types of kayaking adventures.
Exploring Your Options
Now comes the fun part, purchasing your paddle or paddle components! Here are a few of the many great options we supply:
Carbonology Sport - Mid Wing Paddle
Retail Price: $460.00 AUD
Sizing: Between 190-200 cm (XS) to 208-218cm (L) to suit different paddling techniques.
Colours: Gold, Green, Red, Blue, Pink, Black. Check availability in-store.
The Carbonology Sport Mid Wing Paddle comes with one of the most popular blade shapes on the market today. Well suited to both kayak and surf ski activities, these paddles offer excellent stability in rough water, flat water, and ocean environments.
Each Mid Wing Paddle is:
- Hand-crafted in South Africa
- High-strength and durable
- Available for kids, juniors, and adults
- Equipped with a 10cm adjustable shaft
- Known for its signature Kajak Sport Shaft ferrule
Riot Marathon Paddle
Material: Fibreglass
Retail Price: $125.00 AUD
Colour: Black
With a strong and lightweight fibre shaft, the Riot Marathon Paddle is a low-angle paddle that offers an excellent combination of strength and durability. It also comes with incredibly tough polymer carbon-fibre blades and a 2-piece shaft that are specifically designed for long-distance touring activity.
Key features include:
- Carbon-reinforced nylon blade material provides excellent durability when pushing off rocks or structures
- 2-piece fibreglass shaft is easy to store and transport
- Feathering is infinitely adjustable right or left
- Clamp style joiner - xero play
- Great blade shape
- Embedded Drip Rings and Locater
- Weight 992 gms
Point65 Grand Tourer
Material: Fibreglass
Retail Price: $360.00 AUD
Colour: Orange & Black
The Grand Tourer (shown above) is Point65’s most popular paddle. This all-around paddle is great for both high and low angle strokes. The blade is slightly curved which gives it great catch in the water. Due to its comfortable oval shaft, it fits your hand well and is stiff for maximum power application.made from vacuum moulded fibreglass and pigmented injected epoxy.
Key specs include:
- Blade: Fibreglass foam core
- Shaft: 2 piece - fibreglass
- Length: One size – adjustable telescopic 220-230cm
- Adjustable Angle: 360°
- Weight: 790gms
Matching the Paddle to Your Kayak Style
Beyond the style and mechanics of the paddle itself, there’s also the need to make sure it matches the activity you’re doing on a regular basis. Below are some general guidelines for different styles of kayaking, and things to consider when you’re trying to find the right paddle:
Sea Kayaking
Sea kayaking involves paddling in open waters, such as seas and large lakes. It often includes longer trips, sometimes spanning multiple days, requiring paddles that promote endurance and comfort.
Things to Consider
Length: Longer paddles (up to 240 cm) are preferred for their efficiency over distances as they can help you maintain a natural paddling rhythm.
Blade Style: Low-angled blades are ideal as they offer less wind resistance and require less energy per stroke, which is beneficial during long sessions on the water.
Material: Lightweight materials like carbon fibre or fibreglass are recommended for their strength and fatigue-reducing properties.
Fishing
Kayak fishing has gained popularity, with kayaks often outfitted with various accessories like rod holders. Stability and manoeuvrability are key, as anglers often paddle with one hand while managing fishing gear with the other.
Things to Consider
Length: Wider kayaks typically used for fishing require longer paddles (~230cm+) to comfortably reach the water without straining.
Features: Features such as adjustable lengths and feathering can help anglers adjust their paddle on the fly to suit specific conditions and preferences. A one piece paddle is often preferred for kayak fishing as it attaches to the side of the kayak and
Durability: Materials like reinforced plastics are beneficial for their durability and the ability to withstand occasional impacts with fishing gear,r underwater obstacles and even to push off structures or rocks.
White Water Kayaking
White water kayaking involves navigating rivers and rapids, demanding quick, responsive paddling. This style is thrilling but can be physically demanding and requires robust equipment.
Things to Consider
Length: Shorter paddles (185cm – 210cm) are preferred for their agility and ease of handling in rapid and turbulent waters.
Blade Style: High-angled blades are suitable as they enable powerful strokes that are more vertical used to manoeuvre quickly and effectively through rough water. The catch of water with each stroke is powerful and often faster resulting in a increased kayak speed
Material: Durable materials such as plastic or fibreglass are ideal to withstand the frequent impacts with rocks and other rough surfaces.
Recreational Kayaking
Recreational kayaking is suitable for beginners and those interested in casual paddling in calm waters like lakes, calm rivers, and coastal areas.
Things to Consider
Length: The paddle length can vary, but medium lengths (210cm - 220cm) often work well, providing a good balance between control and comfort.
Blade Style: Recreational paddlers benefit from versatile blade shapes that cater to a variety of conditions and styles, often found in adjustable paddles.
Ease of Use: Features like lightweight but durable materials and adjustable feather options enhance the paddling experience without the need for technical proficiency. Plastic or fibreglass blades are your best option.
Long-Distance Touring
Long-distance touring involves extended journeys, often traversing vast stretches of water, which can last several days and demand efficient and comfortable paddling.
Things to Consider
Length: Longer paddles are preferred for their efficiency in covering great distances with fewer strokes.
Blade Style: Low-angled blades are optimal as they facilitate a relaxed, horizontal stroke between 20 - 30 degrees that can be sustained over long periods without excessive fatigue.
Material: Lightweight and durable materials like carbon fibre are ideal to minimise exertion and maximise stroke efficiency.
Get Everything You Need at PaddleZone
From top-of-the-line paddles to touring kayaks and inflatable SUPs, we are proud to cater for and represent the broader paddling community of Australia. Our paddles are sourced from the industry’s best and brightest, and all are available at competitive prices.
Our primary focus is on YOU and your paddling needs. We make it our business to fully understand any needs, experience or budget so that we can give you the best possible service and advice.
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