The sport of kayaking offers many different paddling experiences, such as white water rapids, sea kayaking and touring inland lakes and rivers. Because there are many different paddling options, there are also a variety of considerations when comparing kayak paddles. Kayak paddles, depending on the type of boat and the style of paddling you prefer, come in many different styles. Understanding the differences will help you decide on the right kayak paddle for you.
Types
There are two general types of kayak paddles: whitewater paddles and flat water, or touring paddles. Touring paddles are typically longer and lighter than whitewater paddles. Because kayak touring involves traveling longer distances, touring paddles are built for efficiency. The blades of the paddle tend to be narrower and the shaft is adjustable to allow for feathering or changing the orientation of one blade to reduce wind resistance.
Whitewater paddles are primarily used in river kayaking, where technical rapids are encountered and the need for maneuverability is common. Given their use, whitewater paddles are more durable, heavier, feature a wider, shorter blade.
Design
There are different design elements that go into making a kayak paddle. Beginning with blade shape, paddles come in symmetrical, asymmetrical and Greenland style. Asymmetrical blades work well for both whitewater and touring, according to Seakayak.ws. Greenland-style paddles feature longer and narrower blades and are used for touring.
Kayak paddle blades feature different shapes, such as dihedral, flat, spoon and wing, according to Seakayak.ws. Wing- and spoon-shaped blades are aggressive styles of paddle for advanced kayakers and are typically used by racers. Flat blades, a good start for beginners, are very common because they are easy to use and very forgiving when it comes to proper technique. Like flat blades, dihedral or v-shaped paddles are perfect for beginning kayakers.
Length & Shaft Size
Paddle length and shaft size are two additional factors when comparing kayak paddles. Two general criteria determine suggested length of a paddle: the style of boat and angle of placement in the water. A wider kayak will require a longer paddle than a narrower boat. Paddlers who prefer higher-angle paddling--or placing the blade in the water closer to the boat while the upper hand rises above the chest, creating a higher angle with the water surface--require a short paddle. For example, Greenland-style paddles are typically used by kayakers who prefer low-angle paddling. Shaft size is determined by the size of your hand. Most manufacturers produce paddles that have an option for a standard shaft size or a smaller-sized shaft.
Materials and Weight
Kayak paddles are made from numerous materials, each offering advantages based on weight and cost. Plastic paddles are common for entry-level kayakers because they are less expensive and robust for the punishment beginning kayakers may exert. However, they tend to be heavier. For lighter paddles, manufacturers are using fiberglass, Kevlar, graphite and composite, or a mixture of these materials with plastic, because they offer the durability of a purely plastic paddle without the weight. These paddles tend to cost more. Finally, many paddle makers still use wood. Although, wood paddles require routine care and maintenance.
Considerations
When purchasing a kayak paddle, it is important to know and understand the type of paddling you will be doing. Whitewater kayak paddles differ greatly from sea kayak touring paddles. Knowing the application of the paddle you plan on buying makes deciding length and design of a paddle easier and more targeted. If possible, test numerous paddles to find the paddle that's right for you.
Member Comments