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Up the Creek Without a
Kayak Paddle?
Choosing the right kayak paddle is one of the most important decisions a kayaker can make.
There are basically four different types of paddles: racing paddles, sea or touring paddles, general purpose paddles and whitewater paddles. The type that is most appropriate depends entirely on the use of the paddle.
Racing paddles are very lightweight and have extremely cupped blades, while whitewater paddles feature shorter lengths and have larger, reinforced blades. Touring paddles are designed to be light and easy to use for long strokes over an extended period of time. Longer than other types of paddles, touring paddles generally have thinner blades. Recreational paddles tend to be shorter and heavier than the other types.
Paddles come in a choice of one or two piece paddles. Two piece paddles are connected in the middle and can be taken apart for easier transportation; two piece paddles can also allow for "feathering the blade," or allowing the blade to act in the manner of a sail by holding it to catch the wind. The one piece paddle feels sturdier, is a little lighter and is generally stronger although it is less versatile.
Measurement of the paddle depends upon the height of a person and style of kayak. A basic way to get a starting point in measuring for a one piece paddle is to stand next it while reaching over the head and curling the fingers over the paddle blade. The fingers should just curl over; if the whole hand reaches over it, the paddle is too short. If the fingers cannot curl over the blade, it is too long. To measure for a two piece paddle, hold the arms out to the sides, measure from fingertip to fingertip, then measure the distance from elbow to finger. These measurements added together should give a rough estimate of the maximum length of the paddle. Keep in mind the width of the kayak; a wider kayak will require a longer paddle.
Paddles have three basic parts. A drip ring keeps water from going over the hand or down the sleeve; this is optional on some paddles. The blade is the part that moves the kayak through the water; this can be thick, thin, cupped or straight according to the type of kayaking done. The shaft is held in the hand and can be bent or straight where the hand meets the shaft; this is entirely a personal choice for comfort although some suggest that a straight shaft gives more powerful strokes. An important consideration in a kayak paddle is the width of the shaft, or shaft diameter; a larger hand will require a larger diameter shaft for comfort.
The construction of a kayak paddle is usually aluminum, wood, fiberglass, plastic, carbon, or nylon. The appropriate materials are again dependent upon the kayak discipline chosen. Pricing will vary depending on the materials and type of paddle needed, but can range from $100 to over $600.
Choosing the right kayak paddle is as important as choosing the kayak itself.