1. Stay Single
Canoe paddles have a single blade on the paddle piece, as opposed to kayak paddles that have a double blade. If you are going on a day trip or are whitewater canoeing, use paddles that have a beavertail or tulip shaped blade. These are flexible to reduce the jolting of all the stroking. A short, wide blade helps you move water the quickest and are ideal for whitewater canoeing. Longer, narrower blades are more efficient and require less energy.
2. Look for Lightweight
When you are using your canoe for recreational purposes, choose paddles that are comfortable, lightweight and have a smaller blade. They make canoe paddles with an aluminum or fiberglass shaft that are used for general canoeing. A paddle made from wood or a heavier paddle will probable cost less, but they are harder to use. If you are going on a canoe day trip, use canoe paddles made from fiberglass.
3. Size it Up
Get the right length of canoe paddle, otherwise you'll have a hard time paddling. The correct shaft size for paddles is from your mouth to the water when you are sitting in the canoe. This shaft size varies with the type of canoe you are using.
4. The Right Shape
Get the right grip shape for the type of water you are tacking. Use a T-grip shaped handle for precision of your blade through whitewater canoeing. Get a rounder, softer handle, called a pear shaped or ball shaped, for longer day canoe trips. These grips help massage and provide comfort for longer trips. Also, look at the shaft shape. Round shafts are easy to make, but oval shafts are more comfortable. There are no standards as far as the diameter of the shaft.
5. Get a Loaner
Try out the paddle before you purchase to ensure you have the right size, shape and handle for your needs. Your local sports store should have paddles for loan to try out before you purchase one. Your paddle should last a lifetime, so consider all aspects of your paddle before purchasing. It should suit all of your canoeing needs and meet your budget as well. A sports store will trade your paddle in if you decide you need a different type in the future.
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