Aluminum is a highly serviceable, cost-effective option. Plastic paddle shafts are rare and should be avoided. The three major materials that you’ll see in a paddle shaft are aluminum, carbon, and fiberglass. So, if you suspect you might really get into kayaking and try something like an overnight paddling trip in the future, you’ll want to consider a paddle that’s a bit more lightweight.
Kayak paddles full#
But as you gain experience and start to envision longer paddling trips, weight becomes more important.Ī heavier paddle will cause more fatigue over the course of a full day of paddling. When you’re just starting out, you might not feel the difference between a paddle that weighs 34 ounces and one that weighs 29.5 ounces. Be sure to check the website of any brand you like to find the right size kayak paddle for you.
Taller paddlers should also choose longer paddles, even if you’ll be using a narrower kayak.Įach kayak paddle manufacturer will have different suggestions for the right paddle size for you, depending on those two factors (your height and your kayak’s width). If you have a wider boat, for example, you’ll want to choose a longer paddle. When you’re finished for the day, the paddle can be split in two to fit into your vehicle or to allow for convenient storage at home.THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING YOUR FIRST KAYAK PADDLE SIZINGĬhoosing the right size kayak paddle is largely a function of your height and the width of your kayak. A support ridge gives the paddle extra strength and durability, and if you capsize, it will float.
Adjustable drip guards prevent water from running down the shaft and into the kayak while two foam grips protect your hands from calluses and make long-distance trips more comfortable. The paddle features three locking positions, so you can adjust the feathering angle to suit your needs. This is a major plus, helping to reduce your fatigue and increase the paddle’s efficiency. The blades are feathered, which means that they’re positioned at an angle to one another to reduce wind resistance on the one that’s in the air. Available in 84” or 96” lengths, the sleek black paddle features nylon blades and a durable aluminum shaft. The SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle may not be the best performing paddle on Amazon, but reviewers love it because it strikes a happy balance between quality and affordability. Read on to learn more about the best kayak paddles available.
There are a whole host of factors to consider including your blade size and shape, the shape of your shaft, and the materials your paddle is made out of. The right paddle can increase your stroke efficiency so that you go faster and straighter while using less energy, while the wrong paddle can make a fun day out on the water feel more like a chore. "Breaks in two for easy travel and storage and features a handy snap-button ferrule connection."Ī paddle is as essential to a kayak as an engine is to a car, and as such, it’s important to choose wisely. "The blades make it easier for you to maintain a strong, straight course through patches of turbulent water."īest for Fishing: Bending Branches Angler Scout Fishing Paddle at Amazon "The shaft is made from lightweight anodized aluminum, while the symmetrical blades provide plenty of power."īest Bent Shaft: Werner Powerhouse Fiberglass Kayak Paddle at Backcountry "The blades are mid-sized to suit a wide array of different paddling styles and activities."īest for Kids: Bending Branches Splash Kids Kayak Paddle at Austin Kayak "The shaft is made from aluminum and splits in two for convenient storage."īest Carbon Fiber: Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Carbon Kayak Paddle at Amazon
Kayak paddles plus#
"An ideal option for entry-level kayakers who don't want to break the bank."īest Fiberglass: Carlisle Magic Plus Kayak Paddle at Dick's
"Adjustable drip guards prevent water from running down the shaft and into the kayak."īest Budget: Attwood Heavy-Duty Kayak Paddle at Amazon Best Overall: SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle at Amazon