Recreational Kayak Paddle Buying Guide

While paddles may all seem the same, recreational kayak paddles vary in many ways; such as length, material, and blade shape.  All of these factors are important when considering which kayak paddle to buy for your next kayaking adventure; whether it is on Deep Creek Lake or in the Chesapeake Bay.

Kayak Paddle Sizing
Kayak Paddle Materials
Kayak Paddle Blade Shape
See Also

Kayak Paddle Sizing

First you must decide what paddle length is right for you. When sizing yourself for a paddle there are two measurements you must know: your height, and the width of your kayak. This chart will help you choose the right paddle size for you and your boat.

Kayak Width	Under 23"	24" - 28"	Over 29"
Paddler Height	Recommended Paddle Length
Under 5' 5"	210 - 220cm	220 - 230cm	230 - 240cm
5' 5" - 5' 11"	220cm	230cm	230 - 240cm
6'+	220 - 230cm	230 - 240cm	240cm

Kayak Paddle Materials

While the materials that make up your paddle may not seem important, they can change everything about your next kayaking trip.  If you are looking for a strong robust paddle the heavier materials such as aluminum are going to be your route.  However, if you want to more effort into moving forward, and not lifting your paddle, a lighter material such as Fiberglass or Carbon Fiber will suit your needs better.

Aluminum
Paddles with aluminum shafts and plastic blades are heavier than paddles built with other materials. These paddles are durable and are typically less expensive. They are great for beginners and recreational kayakers.

This includes kayak paddles such as:
Harmony Adventure
Harmony Sea Passage
Bending Branches Whisper
Bending Branches Infusion

Fiberglass
Fiberglass paddles are lighter and much more durable. They are about in the middle of the price range.

 
This includes kayak paddles such as:
Harmony Tortuga
Bending Branches Slice

Carbon Fiber
Paddles made out of carbon fiber are the lightest paddles out there. They are not as durable as fiberglass, but are much lighter. These are the most expensive paddles.

Kayak Paddle Blade Shape

The shape of the blade on your kayak paddle effects how easily your paddle cuts through the water, and how much force each paddle stroke will produce. Blades can be broken into two broad categories: broad faced and narrow faced.

Broad Faced
A larger blade face will allow you to make more powerful strokes. This results in quicker acceleration, and more fatigue on longer kayaking trips. Broad faced blades are well suited to short kayak trips, and river paddeling.

Narrow Faced
A smaller blade face will allow you to make many paddle strokes with less fatigue to your muscles and joints. Narrow faced blades are well suited to long paddle trips and slow moving water ways.