A Word About Paddles

Buying your new paddle you should think carefully of what you expect from it: a performing design (first of all for competition paddlers of course), low weight, a nice look, or is it rather a paddle that is low in cost? Since most of these factors you can decide by yourself, it is often the question of ‘Which length should I take?’.

Competition paddlers generally know their length and size, or they can ask someone more experienced. The same remains for skilled touring kayakers or canoeists. But what if you’re uncertain about the length and do not have anyone to ask?

For touring and sea kayaks we generally recommend a length between 220 and 230 cm. Slim blades can be used slightly longer. If you think a length of 220 could be too long for you, we would rather suggest, to choose a smaller blade instead of a shorter paddle. For touring canoes we recommend a paddle which is just as long (or only little longer) to fit under your armpit. Bent-shaft paddles are generally used about 5 cm shorter while for beaver tails it’s the length of the shaft that counts.

Standards:

For kayak racing as well as for touring paddles a twist of 75° is standard. Polo blades have a standard rotation of 80°, while ergonom paddles come with a 55° rotation. Altered angles are of course available on request.

Paddles