Paddle Power
Jake Kulju June 10, 2008
Choosing the right paddle is one of the most important decisions a canoeist can make.
By Jake Kulju
Canoe—check. Lifejacket—check. Paddles—what?
Paddles are an essential part of canoeing, and not just having them either. It’s important to have the right size and style for the type of water and canoe that you’ll be paddling in.
A basic canoe paddle has a blade attached to a shaft with a grip on one end. But that’s where the similarities end. There are as many different types of canoe paddles as there are people. The type of activity you pursue largely determines the type of paddle you will want to use.
General Recreation
• T-grip or pear grip and a mid-sized or smaller blade
• Fiberglass or aluminum shaft with stout plastic blade, or durable wooden paddle
• Mid-weight or light-weight for ease of use
Canoe Trip
• Durability
• Light-weight
• T-grip or pear grip with a smaller beavertail or tulip-shaped blade
• Flexible blade to ease the jolt of continuous strokes
• Fiberglass, plastic or wood with a 12-degree bent shaft
Whitewater Canoeing
• T-grip for better control of paddle
• Broad rectangular blade or tulip blade
• Stiff shaft with minimal flexibility
• Fiberglass or laminated wood blade tip for strength
A close second importance is having a paddle that is the appropriate length. Finding a paddle that fits increases your efficiency and stroke power. Generally speaking, the most efficient shaft length is the distance from your mouth to the water when you are in paddling position. If you are racing, sitting low in a canoe and using a significantly bent shaft you may want a shorter length. A good starting point is a 56-inch paddle. Start from there and determine if you need something longer or shorter.
The final considerations, though no less important, are blade and shaft shape. As a general rule, wider, shorter paddle blades function better in fast moving water and longer, narrower blades are better for long distances and canoe trips.
Oval shafts tend to fit the hand more naturally than round shafts, though this is entirely a matter of preference. The important thing to look for in a shaft is diameter. Too small and your hands will cramp up. Too large and your hand will tire quickly from gripping.
Like most lessons learned, it may take you awhile to figure out which paddle style is best for you. Just follow these guidelines along with a dose of patience and trial and error.
Other posts & articles from Jake Kulju
- Meet the Cascade Gear Guides - July 23rd, 2008
- Dog Days of Summer - July 4th, 2008
- Leaf Rubbing - July 2nd, 2008
- Camping with a Tarp the Ultralight Way - June 19th, 2008
- Made in the Shade: Julbo Trail Sunglasses - June 6th, 2008
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