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Choosing Kayak Paddles
from: Maxx Adventure TravelExperienced kayakers will tell you that having the right type of paddles for your kayak is equally as important as having the right kayak. With the right paddles in hand, you're going to have a much more enjoyable time kayaking, and you'll feel less fatigue by the end of your adventure.
There are rules set out that will help determine the correct paddles. Since everyone's height and arm length varies, that's a good place to start.
Kayak Paddle Rules
Length: Important.
Stern passenger rule: Standing firmly on the ground, place the tip of the paddle blade at your feet with the grip leveled at eye length.
Bow passenger rule: A somewhat shorter paddle is needed then a stern operator. Level the paddle matching the mouth:
Types of Kayak Paddles:
There are different types of paddles available, however, wood is still the most common including Sitka Spruce, although spruce is a bit harder to locate. These paddles are light, but quite strong, but after many usages, the wood tends to split.
Maple paddles are heavier, but there are kayakers who prefer this type of paddle. Ash paddles are still heavie, but also provide more flexibility than other paddles. Ash paddles tend to spring, which helps lessen the shock of lethargy, especially at the onset of paddling. Ash is a type of wood that is sometimes laminated.
Material Choices:
Wood: Sitka Spruce, Maple, Ash
Aluminum: Lightweight and strong
Laminate
Double paddles
Aluminum paddles tend to make your hands dirty quickly. Aluminum paddles are often light and made of strong material.
Laminated paddles can be purchased and utilized with alloy shafts, alongside wooden blades. This combination provides strength, which arranges the blade to meet the alloy shaft alongside the ribs of ash wood, great for cruising. You'll need differnt types of paddles for competing.
What type of blades are suitable for me?
The shape of blades depends on what you're planning to do with your kayak. If your intention is to do some racing, consider square-tip blades. The spoon shape, modified or beaver tail blades are perfect for cruising. These blades have a round corner. Beaver tail blades are often use for zigzag ski racing or kayaking. (Slalom)
The bottom line is the blade type you choose depends on your stamina and strength level. It's recommended that you experiment with a several types of paddles to determine which suits your needs best.
If you decide on the smaller blades, but they end up being unsuitable for you, you'll end up getting less water to pull your strength. On the other hand, while if you choose longer blades you might be able to pull more water against your paddles than you have strength to perform.
Therefore, discovering the right balance is critical when kayaking when choosing bot paddles and blades.
What to choose if I'm solo kayaking?
Solo kayakers usually choose the double blade paddles. Remember, paddles longer than usual will serve you best when riding alone. You also should consider that you'll need to learn how to feather along with the kayak. Thus, the double paddles are great for riding alone, but you'll definitly require superb balance to master the kayak.
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