How to Choose a Kayak Paddle in 2024?

How good can it get when you are paddling across a quiet lake and the paddle flows in your hand, moving easily through the water causing little more than gentle rippling below as drive smooth silent stroke after easy significant stroke? What are the secrets to this blissful experience? The right kayak paddle! Fun Fact: Selecting the right paddle can increase your speed by 30%! To make this guide complete, we will explore the world of kayak paddles from materials to sizing. So, whether you are still learning the ropes or if you have been paddling for years already. Here is everything you need to know about how to take your kayaking skills up a gear!

There is no “perfect” kayak paddle. In terms of finding the paddle that is absolutely best for you, there are a lot of different variables at play, including your paddling style as well as what kind of kayaking you do. In the article, we highlight several of the types of kayak paddles and some materials and features intended to make your time on water more enjoyable.

Paddling to Long-Distance Kayaking Therefore, take your life jacket and start rowing towards the enchanting kingdom of kayak paddles.

Understanding Kayak Paddle Basics

Before I get to my conclusion, make sure you set up your kayak properly.

Here are a few bullet points on kayaking paddles for beginners.

There are different types of kayak paddles one is recreational paddles other touring paddles A good paddle can mean the difference between a great day on the water or an exhausting, irritating one. It allows your efficiency, comfort, and enjoyment in paddling to function properly.

Here are the main parts of a typical kayak paddle

Shaft: The long unit you grip and use to operate the pump. Poles can be either straight or bent and are usually made from aluminum, fiberglass, or carbon fiber. The Werner Camano, a favorite with paddlers boasts a Carbon shaft that provides awesome strength in the lightest weight.

Blades: These are the paddles at each end of a shaft that move water. Blade shapes are different, including dihedral blades, which have a ridge down the middle to make water flow better over both sides.

Ferrule: The apparatus that connects the two parts of a 2-piece paddle. Features such as the push-button ferrule make an already good paddling experience even better by making it easy to assemble…and now, that new…feather angle on your paddle? It is simple and fast!

Paddle Designs for Performance vs Comfort

Your kayaking experience is all up to your paddle design. High-angle paddles are built for a vertical stroke like the one we see in performance kayaking, while low-angle blades are perfect for comfort and relaxing horizontal strokes that are characteristic of recreational paddling.

The shape of the dagger has a bearing on performance too. Blades with a wider profile pack more punch but demand greater effort, whereas narrower blades are better suited for long-haul paddling. The shape of the dihedral blades makes them less likely to flutter, and better suited for smoother strokes.

Another important element is comfort. Having ergonomic grips and lightweight material will help reduce the fatigue you feel after long paddling sessions. Take the Werner Kalliste, for instance; It is popular among touring kayakers because of its comfortable grip and lightweight.

Types of Kayak Paddles

Recreational paddles and touring paddles

Recreational paddles are for more casual canoeing and are similar to the kinds that would be used with recreational kayaks. These blades often are wider, and made from less expensive materials such as aluminum or plastic. For what it is worth, the Carlisle Magic and Carlisle Magic Plus paddles are widely regarded as some of the more popular options among recreational paddlers for their balance between performance and durability.

In contrast, here is a touring paddle for demanding paddle athletes and longer trips. They tend to incorporate lighter materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass with more narrow blades allowing for a well-paced stroke and longer distance. One of the best touring paddles to put your hands on that won’t break the bank is by far, The Werner Skagit FG.

Low-angle vs. high-angle paddles

Whereas high-angle paddles are designed to be used with a more vertical style of paddle in which the shaft is at a higher angle relative to the water. This style is typical among whitewater kayakers or paddlers wanting maximum speed and power. The shorter, wider blade on high-angle paddles is used for powerful strokes. The Werner Shuna is an example of a well-performing high-angle paddle.

Low-angle paddles are meant to be used with a more laidback, horizontal skimming motion. This stroke is found in recreational kayaking and touring/sea kayak communities where a person has to paddle for a very long time. Long, narrow blades are most common with low-angle paddles. Werner Camano A favorite low-angle paddle for recreational and touring use.

Different kinds of paddles for the various approaches to kayaking (whitewater and fishing)

Of course, there are special paddle styles for different branches of kayaking:

Whitewater paddles have wider, heavier blades cut with a little more surface area to handle the rocks. They are built for rapid paddling, quick power strokes, and nimbleness in the rapids.

Turbo blades are a new product for swift water. Less common, but may have a high-visibility strip for other boaters.

Touring paddles are Lightweight with narrow blades, ideal for those who want to cover more ground in a single trip. The Werner Kalliste is a high-end touring paddle which is popular among experienced paddlers.

Recreational Paddles are For all-around paddling in flatwater situations. The Wilderness Systems Pungo makes a great recreational kayak and is typically used with no-frills paddles, such as the Carlisle Magic Plus.

Choosing the Right Paddle Length

What are the factors to consider?

How tall you are, the width of your kayak, and how you paddle.

Paddle length is an important factor to consider as it will help dictate how efficiently you are paddling or if your crucial muscle groups supporting the stroke are comfortable. The two main concerns are:

Height: taller paddlers generally have longer paddle lengths

Width of kayak: The wider the kayak, more longer your paddle has to be so that you reach comfortably in water.

Paddling style: High-angle paddlers often use shorter-length paddle shafts than low-angle paddling.

If, for instance, you are paddling a recreational kayak such as the Wilderness Systems Pungo and prefer an easy-going style with low-angle paddles then your paddle would be longer than if you were using a narrower touring hull which may require more vertical/spread (high angle).

How to Measure for the Right Length Paddle?

How to Choose THE PERFECT PADDLE LENGTH

You simply stand tall, and place one arm up in the air.

Fold your fingers over a paddle placed vertically next to you.

Your fingers should naturally grip the paddle at this point which is what we define as the throat of the blade.

Or you can use a kayak paddle size chart. These charts usually take into account your height and kayak width to provide a range for paddle length.

Adjustable paddles: The Good and the Bad

Adjustable length: Adjustable paddles offer versatility in that you can adjust the paddle’s overall maximum length, which is handy if you use different kayaks or switch up your paddling style. A high-quality adjustable paddle, like the Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Carbon

Pros:

Both boat/accessory versatility

Paddlers of all heights can shareUIImagePickerControllerSource

Easier to transport and store

Cons:

Could be heavier compared to fixed-length paddles

Probability of a mechanical break due to the point of adjustment

Less efficient power transfer than solid-online paddles

Paddle Materials: Finding the Perfect Balance

Aluminum paddles

Aluminum is preferred due to its cost, however, it does tend to bend with less resilience than carbon fiber.

Due to their price point and discovery nature, aluminum paddles are the most popular with beginners & recreational paddle boarders. This makes them perfect for shallow water or anywhere else you may be bumping into things, as the 1.25″ thick foam is stiff enough to resist gouging and impact damage better than an air core inflatable…

“The right kayak paddle can make all the difference in your on-water experience, from the power of your strokes to the comfort of your hands.”

Pros:

Extremely Tough and Hard wearing

Inexpensive (perfect for beginners or as a back-up paddle)

Low maintenance

Cons:

Can be heavy — long paddling sessions could lead to tired arms.

May be cold in winter

Heavier than and not as good at transferring power to the pedals as lighter materials.

Fiberglass paddles (the Jack of all trades paddle)

Fiberglass paddles have a great compromise between price and performance. Lighter than aluminum and more robust than carbon fiber, so good for those in-between paddlers. The Werner Skagit FG is one of the best-value high-performance fiberglass paddles available.

Pros:

Less weight than aluminumEnables longer trips without getting tired

Cheaper than carbon fiber

Durable and impact-resistant

Cons:

Heavier than carbon fiber

Potentially pricier than aluminum choices

Carbon fiber paddles

Carbon is for hardcore performance Paddlers

You can use carbon fiber paddles, it is LIGHT and STIFF so your paddle will make you efficient while performing on the board. Mainly for experienced kayakers and paddlers going on longer trips. The Werner Kalliste is a high-performance carbon fiber paddle.

Pros:

Weight: incredibly light, reduces exhaustion implements, and boosts performance

Stiff power transfer

Typically with advanced blade designs to enhance usability

Cons:

Higher cost rank among other materials

Susceptible to impacts

Wooden paddles: traditional craftsmanship and aesthetics

Wooden paddles combine great functionality with style They are frequently handcrafted and produce a warm, organic sensibility. The Sawyer Station Sea Feather would be a great, winning example of that genre, and The Verdict Oh boy is this ever pretty to the eye as far as high-performance wood paddles are concerned!

Pros:

Aesthetically pleasing

Can be very lightweight

Remains warm to the touch even in cold weather

Cons:

May need lubrication more than synthetic materials

High-quality work may get a bit pricey

Not as strong as modern materials

Paddle Shaft Material	Shaft Characteristics
Aluminum	Heavy but inexpensive
Fiberglass	Lightweight and stiff
Carbon Fiber	Ultralight and responsive

Blade Design and Shape

Symmetrical vs. asymmetrical blades

Symmetrical Blades are mirror images of each other on both sides of the center line. Easy to use and good for casual paddling, beginners in particular

The top portion of the asymmetrical blades is shorter while the bottom part is longer. You get more effective the design of this shape as it keeps an even surface area in water with each stroke you make. Asymmetric blades: Asymmetrical blades touch most top touring and high-performance indicating paddles, indicating your blade has twisted towards a power. Werner Camano Angler, Fiberglass Laminate Blade Paddle for Fishing TheTradeFig(KP)The Werner Camano better angling also comes with an unparalleled blade design that is asymmetrical and perfect for touring or just simple recreation.

Dihedral vs. flat blades

Dihedral blades feature a spine that gives direction to the water and splits it equally over each side of the blade. It was designed specifically for this purpose and reduces the flutter allowing a more serene stroke. The dihedral blade shape on the Werner Kalliste is common for a lot of higher-end paddles.

Unlike flat blades, which lack the centre-ridge. They deliver quick power but may flutter a little, particularly with less experienced paddlers.

Blade size considerations for different paddling styles

Blade size affects the power and efficiency of your stroke.

The bigger the blade, the more power will be generated and this requires high effort. They are commonly used in whitewater kayaking or racing due to their ability for rapid acceleration

If you like the idea of paddling longer distances, a smaller blade is going to have less wear and tear on your joints – this makes it ideal for those looking at touring or more recreational paddle options.

A high-angle paddling style usually has shorter and wider blades that favor a strong stroke.

In general, low-angle paddling styles benefit from using longer and narrower blades for more efficient strokes.

So, for instance, the Werner Shuna (large blade size- further towards high angle) and Camano (smaller blade – more low-angle dynamics).

Traits of a Great Kayak Paddle

Feathered vs. matched blades

The feathered blades are twisted so that they move through the wind in opposite directions when one of them is moving forward and not trapped by water. Numerous paddlers appreciate the lift of lessening wrist weariness on longer outings. Sometimes the feather angle can even be changed on a two-piece paddle.

Blades that fit together are aligned with each other. More novice-friendly than the other style, this also functions particularly great with low-angle paddling.

Why Drip Rings are Crucial?

They are called Drip rings, which are small plastic or rubber rings fitted onto the paddle shaft just outside each blade. They stop water that would otherwise run down the shaft to end up on your hands or worse, in the kayak. Drip rings: Although they may appear as a tiny detail drip rings can save your day of paddling when out for longer stretches (especially in the cold) and increase comfort.

Comfort shafts for long-distance paddling

Ergonomic shaft designs can also help with comfort and reduce fatigue on longer paddles.

Oval shape in shafts: Improves the natural feels of a grip and blade alignment.

Bent-shaft paddles: The bend in the shaft allows your wrists to remain more neutral, which can help reduce fatigue and repetitive strain injuries.

Narrower shafts: develop more comfortable grips for smaller paddler hands.

A good illustration of a paddle designed to be comfortable for long journeys is the Werner Camano Bent Shaft.

Characteristic	Low-Angle Paddling	High-Angle Paddling
Shaft Angle	20-30 degrees	Steeper angle
Blade Design	Narrower and longer blades	Wider blades
Paddling Style	Relaxed, efficient, and sustainable for long-distance paddling	Powerful, maneuverable, and suitable for whitewater or aggressive paddling
Recommended For	Casual cruising, long days on the water, and those seeking a gentle paddling experience	Whitewater kayaking, pack rafting, kayak surfing, and individuals who haul a lot of gear

“The choice between low-angle and high-angle paddling styles depends on your personal preferences, the type of water you’ll be navigating, and the overall paddling experience you seek.”

Top Kayak Paddle Brands and Models for 2024

Top Picks for Paddle Manufacturers

The following are some of the brands that lead in the kayak paddle sector:

Werner: Top-of-the-line paddles at all price ranges The Werner Camano, Kalliste, and Shuna are some of the more popular models.

Aqua-Bound: Provides good value such as the Sting Ray Carbon.

Wilderness Systems: Makes some top-of-the-line paddles for their kayaks, like the Wilderness Systems Apex.

Carlisle: Top of my list for solid, affordable models are the Carlisle Magic and Magic Plus.

Best beginner to advanced paddles

For Beginners:

CARLISLE MAGIC PLUS: is easy to hook a Performance-minded onto accessories and is inexpensive, best for casual paddling.

Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Hybrid: Performance step up, budget-friendly.

For Intermediate Paddlers:

High Performance and Value for Sea Kayaking: Werner Skagit FG

Wilderness Systems Apex FG -this paddle is all-around, well-constructed and tough.

For Advanced Paddlers:

Werner Kalliste – Best for serious touring, this high-performance carbon fiber paddle.

Werner Shuna: Performance-minded high-angle paddle for versatile paddlers.

Best 3 Affordable Offers

Carlisle Magic: This is a traditional recreational paddle that works great and has an attractive price point.

Aqua-Bound Sting Ray: Aluminum and fiberglass construction for multiple quality points.

Werner Skagit: With two versions — aluminum and fiberglass, this is an awesome paddle for beginners from one of the top brands you can get in kayak paddles.

Caring for Your Kayak Paddle

Correct Cleaning and Storage Techniques

After each use, be sure to rinse your paddle with fresh water (especially important if you have been paddling in saltwater)

Store the paddle dry to prevent mildew and mold.

Finally, your paddle should always be stored indoors in a cool place and away from the heat of direct sunlight which can cause a breakdown of any materials used.

To Shield the blades in your wooden paddles and stop injury, you can see a coating of marine tier varnish or oil annually.

Examine Your Paddle

While in a dirty place you should inspect your paddle for:

Cracks or chips in the blade

Part paddle ferrules fitting incorrectly or broken?

Wear on the blade edges

Wooden paddles with splinters or rough spots

Bent or damaged shafts

How to Make a Puppet of Your Paddle Last Longer?

Do not use your paddle to propel yourself off rocks or from the bottom.

Avoid leaving your paddle in a hot car or direct sunlight for long periods of time.

To avoid water damage to the shaft, employ drip rings.

For adjustable or two-piece paddles, keep the ferrule clean and lube it every so often with a silicon spray to prevent sticking.

Using a paddle bag for transportation protection

Summary

Just imagine a kayak paddle like your perfect dance partner and then having that one just right guy or gal as the “one to go for” if you are too. it makes all of what can be difficult enough already become enjoyable. There you have it: from knowing what a swing set is to identifying the right material and length for your family, now you can make an educated purchase.

The ultimate winner is the one that becomes a natural extension of your own arms so you can paddle with ease and feel like part of nature. There is a perfect paddle out there to meet the needs of kayakers in all styles, whether you are attracted by Werner Kalliste’s lightweight performance, Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Carbon versatility, or Carlisle Magic Plus’ classic reliability.

Depending on the type of kayaking you do and your paddling style, it may also be helpful to keep in mind how much cash you want to invest. Now, do not be afraid to go ahead to your local paddle shop and give a few models a feel in hand either – all too often the perfect paddle just feels right when you are holding it.

While practicing your new paddling techniques keep in mind to start slow as practice makes perfect. You should practice and in time the more you are on the water, your stroke will become better trained and so too your paddle choice. Whether you paddle on a placid lake or indulge in a lazy kayaking pilgrimage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kayak Paddles(FAQ)

Q1: What is the Correct Length of Stand Up Kayak Paddle?

A: When seated in your kayak, a correctly sized paddle should also enable you to put the whole blade underwater and take good paddling with the house underneath. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle when you hold the paddle above your head. You may also refer to a Kayak Paddle Size Chart that takes your height and kayak width as inputs for paddle size suggestions.

Q2: High vs Low-Angle paddling?

A: High-angle paddling uses a more vertical stroke and is usually preferred by racing or higher-performance kayakers. Low-angle paddling employs greater degrees of a horizontal stroke, and is less rotation-intensive; this often affords more relaxed breathing postures well suited for long distances. Also, those high-angle paddles tend to have shorter wider blades, and low-angle paddles, we will get longer narrower blades.

Q3: Are expensive paddles worth the investment?

A: If you paddle often or for long distances, the upgrade to a premium quality paddle such as the Werner Kalliste (high-angle)or Werner Camano(straight shaft low-angle)/Catalyst(high-angle and crankshaft) will make your time on water vastly more enjoyable. Top-end paddles are lighter, and tougher so easier to roll and less tiring in the long run.

Q4: Can you tour with a recreation paddle?

A: Touring paddle weights, are lower and more performance oriented which is great for covering large distances. If you are starting to get into touring or sea kayaking, then look at a paddle made for this type of paddling such as the Werner Skagit FG or Aqua-Bound Sting Ray carbon.

Q5: When to replace your kayak paddle (How long do kayak paddles last?)

A: A good paddle can easily last multiple decades if it is taken care of properly. But you could be due for a new one if things wear out, break down, or slow down significantly. They make a practice of upgrading paddles with increased proficiency, replacing even unspoiled gear for higher-performance versions.

Q6: Feather vs non-feather paddle. What are the benefits?

A: Feathered blades, with the two halves offset to each other, let the blade not in water reduce windage. It can be useful, especially when the wind is strong and paddling a long distance. Also, feathered paddles sometimes reduce wrist fatigue for many of us who paddle. Feathered paddles can take some getting used to with the technique that is required, but practice and experience will quickly get you there.

Q7: Are carbon fiber paddles worth the extra expense?

A: They are much lighter than either an aluminum or a fiberglass pole, which is nice for reducing fatigue over long hauls. The stiffness also means they are steroid, offering crisp power transfer. But for a casual or infrequent paddler, the more affordable material fiberglass (e.g. Werner Skagit FG) is often targeting that performance/price ratio sweet spot you are looking for.

Q8: What can I do to take care of a wood paddle?

A: There are wooden paddles, which may be great for aesthetics but generally require more maintenance than plastic models. Just rinse each paddle with fresh water after use and dry thoroughly. Every few years varnish or oil the wood with marine-grade product. Keep your paddle in a safe spot indoors, out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Wood paddles like the Sawyer Station Sea Feather can last a lifetime with some care and perform extremely well.

Q9: What key components I should keep in mind for a whitewater kayak paddle?

A: Either carbon fiber or high-impact plastics are common materials for paddles so seek these specifications out. Ergonomic shafts and dihedral blades offer greater control with fatigue reduction. Examples of popular whitewater paddles: are Werner, and Aqua-Bound.

Q10: Am I allowed to use a kayak paddle with my stand-up paddle board (SUP)?

A: You can use it, however, it is just not ideal. SUP paddles are typically longer with a distinct blade shape for standing paddling. For anyone who alternates between kayaking and SUP, a converted paddle (it works for both) may be worth looking into.

Source Links

1. The Best Kayak Paddles of 2024 – https://gearjunkie.com/boats-water/best-kayak-paddles
2. Choosing a Kayak Paddle – https://www.touringkayaks.com/resources-2/choosing-a-kayak-paddle/
3. All You Need to Know to Choose a Kayak Paddle – https://aquabound.com/blogs/resources/all-you-need-to-know-to-choose-a-kayak-paddle?srsltid=AfmBOoq6eoet6RmKruKiJfsHf21CBQc_t2ZNimWO_7btrVpH_8tP5HhK
4. What Is the Best Type of Kayak Paddle to Buy? – https://www.angleoar.com/post/what-is-the-best-type-of-kayak-paddle-to-buy
5. All You Need to Know to Choose a Kayak Paddle – https://aquabound.com/blogs/resources/all-you-need-to-know-to-choose-a-kayak-paddle
6. Basic Kayak Paddle Shapes – https://paddling.com/learn/basic-kayak-paddle-shapes
7. Wondering about paddling technique versus speed… – https://www.westcoastpaddler.com/community/threads/wondering-about-paddling-technique-versus-speed.9167/
8. Kayak Paddle Technique: Leverage The Compound Effect – TC SURFSKI – https://tcsurfski.com/2013/09/05/kayak-paddle-technique/
9. Perfect Your Forward Kayak Stroke With These Tips – https://paddlingmag.com/canadian-canoe-culture/kayak-forward-stroke-paddle-faster-technique/
10. Kayak Paddles: High-Angle vs. Low-Angle – https://aquabound.com/blogs/resources/kayak-paddles-high-angle-vs-low-angle?srsltid=AfmBOoprpuqQL_bH8KX-WYtugXTExut1cPMq7O-7A1j1eSfTNj-FElT-
11. Top 11 Best Kayak Paddles In 2024 | The Buying Guide – https://www.divein.com/kayaking/kayak-paddle/
12. The 5 Best Kayak Paddles of 2024 – https://www.fieldandstream.com/gear/best-kayak-paddles
13. Sprint kayak paddle – Ultralight – https://gpowersport.com/carbon-fiber-paddles/flatwater/kayak-flatwater/sprint-kayak-paddle-ultralight/
14. Kayak Fishing Paddles 101 – https://bendingbranches.com/blogs/resources/kayak-fishing-paddles-101
15. Paddles Section – https://cfoutdoors.com/paddles/
16. Bending Branches’ Lineup of Kayak Fishing Paddles – https://bendingbranches.com/blogs/resources/your-best-choice-kayak-fishing-paddle-video
17. Evolution of the Sea Kayak Paddle  – https://www.seakayakadventures.com/blog/evolution-sea-kayak-paddle
18. Important factors to consider when choosing a kayak paddle – https://reelyaks.com/blogs/news/important-factors-to-consider-when-choosing-a-kayak-paddle
19. Why The Industry Needs To Change Its Approach To Sizing Kayak Paddles – https://paddlingmag.com/skills/buying-advice/kayak-paddle-shaft-length/
20. Kayak paddle blade angle – so what is the big deal?! – https://madgoats.no/kayak-paddle-blade-angle-so-what-is-the-big-deal/