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There are some essential tips you need to know
prior to selecting your paddle whether it be for canoeing
or kayaking. Your height, paddling conditions and length of
time on the water are all key factors.
canoe paddles
If you will be spending your time on the water
in a canoe, ensure you are aware of the width and cross section
dimensions of your canoe. Bent shaft wood canoe paddles are
the most efficient type of paddle and work best on flat water.
Straight wood canoe paddles are good all around options for
rivers and lakes.
Canoe Paddle Sizing
The best way to size a paddle is to measure
your torso. Sit up straight on a flat surface and measure
from the surface between your legs to your nose.
You can measure the paddle you are currently
using by sitting down and placing the grip of your paddle
between your legs. Locate where the shoulder of your paddle
which is where the blade meets the shaft. The shoulder of
a straight paddle should be at your forehead. The shoulder
on a bent shaft should be at your nose.
Seat height, style of paddling and arm length
are other factors that affect the size of paddle you need.
Take all of these factors into account before purchasing your
new paddle.
kayak paddles
Kayakers tend to fall into two different camps
when it comes to paddling. High angle paddlers tend to keep
the shaft of their paddle more vertical providing a more powerful,
athletic stroke.
Those who paddle with a lower angle stroke keep
their paddles more horizontal to the water. This tends to
be a less fatiguing stroke and requires a longer, thinner
blade.
If you are looking for more power and speed,
select a paddle with a larger blade. Alternatively, smaller
paddlers and those who don't require the same speed opt for
blades with less surface area.
Kayak Paddle Sizing
When determining paddle length, the kayak width
is the limiting factor for recreational paddling. For sleeker
touring/sea kayaks - paddling style and physical size are
critical details.
Hold a paddle horizontally in your hands with
your elbows slightly inside a 90 degree angle. Your hands
should be about two-thirds of the way between the center of
the shaft and the shoulder of the blade. Make sure to account
for stroke angle and boat width.
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Shaft Materials
Aluminum shafts tend
to be inexpensive, strong and light. This type is suited
for beginners.
Fiberglass shafts
improve endurance as they deliver an optimal feeling of
warmth on the hands and are lightweight.
Carbon shafts are
stiff, efficient and reduce weight allowing for longer paddling
with less fatique.
blade Materials
Injection-molded blades
provide the perfect blend of weight and durability; ideal
for those that find themselves pushing off rocks and gravel
bars.
Nylon or polypropylene blades,
reinforced with glass are perfect for all conditions.
Wood blades are slightly
heavier than plastic and are favoured by traditionalists
that like buoyancy and superior stiffness.
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