Kayak Paddle Selection
Two Basic Methods of Paddling
Modern kayakers typically use one of two methods or styles to paddle. Each method has many minor variations.
The Whitewater Method of paddling means that you insert a shorter paddle nearly vertical, close to the boat and the basic power stroke ends at about the torso. Most of the forward stroking is done with short strokes in front of the torso so that the boat is pulled forward rather than pushed. Longer strokes and/or a longer paddle will cause a shorter boat to turn much faster and it will be difficult to keep the boat straight when straight is desired. Many whitewater boaters use this method even when they are paddling a touring boat. Serious touring boaters would object.
The Touring Method of paddling means that you insert a longer paddle at a shallow angle. Because the boat is longer or has a keel/rudder to provide directional stability, a longer stroke can be used and the basic power stroke does not have to end at the torso. If this method or a long paddle is used on a short boat that turns easily, it will act like a sweep stroke and cause the boat to turn when straight is desired. The lower angle and longer stoke is more relaxing for longer trips provided the boat has plenty of directional stability.
Paddle Feathering
Kayak paddles are feathered. This means the blades are not at the same angle. Most modern paddles have a 45º to 60º feather. Older paddles had a 90º feather and they will cause excessive wrist action. Because paddles will rotate naturally as the upper elbow is bent, the 45º to 60º feather the easiest on the wrists. Do not let yourself learn to paddle with an un-feathered paddle. Paddling with an un-feathered paddle is a bad habit, will be very difficult to break and actually causes more wrist action than one with a medium feather.
Most paddles are right-hand control paddles. This means the paddle shaft never rotates in the right hand. It does rotate as needed in the left hand as the right elbow is bent or the right wrist is bent. Better paddles have an egg shaped grip or other method of natural indexing for the right hand.
Left-handed paddles are difficult to find, more expensive and difficult to borrow if you break or loose yours. The current thought among instructors it that you should learn to paddle with a right hand control paddle even if you are left handed.
Straight vs. Bent Shaft
Kayak paddles come with a straight or bent shaft. The bent shaft is designed to provide a more neutral wrist angle and reduce side action on the wrists. Using a relaxed grip that utilizes the thumb and forefinger to grip the paddle can also help reduce side action on the wrists. Most everyone agrees the new bent shaft paddles are superior. Paddlers who are accustomed to the straight shaft find the change difficult or awkward. Currently bent shaft paddles are more expensive.
Paddle Length
When the hands are spaced correctly and the paddle is inserted at the angle for which it was designed, the upper hand should be about shoulder height.
Very short people will need paddles that are shorter than normal. Very tall people might want longer paddles. Beware that longer paddles can sometimes put a strain on the arms and/or shoulders.
The most common length for a touring paddle is 230 centimeters. The most common length for a whitewater paddle is around 200 centimeters and getting shorter.
Shorter boats and those boats that turn very easy should be paddled with a shorter paddle and the whitewater method.
The Whitewater Method will work with boats of any length but might not be the most comfortable for longer touring boats.
The Touring Method is not recommended for shorter boats that turn very easy.
Medium length boats with some keel in the front and back such as most of the recreational kayaks can be paddled with either a short paddle and the Whitewater Method or a longer paddle and the Touring Method.
The Perception Endro and Dagger Crossover have no keel and turn very easy unless the skeg is lowered. A shorter paddle and the Whitewater Method are recommended for these boats. These boats are designed for flat water up to Class III whitewater.
Longer touring boats with keel and possible rudder should be paddled with a longer paddle and the Touring Method. The lower blade angle and longer stroke permit a more relaxed paddling experience on longer trips.
Blade Size
Avoid paddles with very small or very large blades. These are for very experienced paddlers with special needs and money to experiment. Stay with the average or medium sized blades for your first paddle.
Paddle Weight
This is a case of paying for what you don’t get. The more you don’t get the more you pay. Lighter paddles are both expensive and very pleasurable to use. Some of the premium paddles have foam filled blades to help the paddle up as it is lifted from the water. Whitewater paddles with foam fill have Kevlar added to the skin to help prevent puncture and are a little heavier and stronger than their touring counterparts.
First Paddle Selection and Spare Paddle Recommendation
Consider that your first paddle might become your spare paddle later.
If you have no interest in ever paddling whitewater then a mid priced two-piece touring paddle might be a wise choice for a first paddle. A two-piece paddle makes a nice spare for a touring boat, stores in the bow deck rigging on most touring boats and travels great in a vehicle.
If you have any ideas of paddling whitewater someday and you have purchased a shorter boat that can be paddled with the Whitewater Method then consider a 4 piece mid priced whitewater paddle. Beware of low-priced 4 piece paddles as they have been know to break when used as a brace for embarking or disembarking. If you purchase good quality, these paddles are very strong, an excellent paddle for daily use and can fit in the smallest of boats for a spare. These paddles can also be used as a spare for a touring boat.
Still Confused?
Paddle selection is as important as boat selection. For additional assistance, contact a paddle maker such as Werner, order a catalog, visit with the pro at your local paddle shop and visit with other paddlers. Be aware that many paddlers have interests and knowledge that are strictly whitewater or strictly flat water. Before taking their advice, make sure you are playing the same game.
Helpful Links
Werner Paddles, Inc.
800-275-3311 (order their catalog)
© 2005 Chris Collins, All Rights Reserved