What To Look For
There are three main types of paddles: Greenland, wings and Euro. Greenland paddles are the original style of paddle used in Greenland. They're narrow, have long blades and are unfeathered. They're known as being easy on the shoulders and are excellent for rolling. Wings paddles are powerful and designed to work like a wing of an aircraft, which allows them to generate additional power through lift. They're best for forward paddling and very unforgiving during other strokes. Euro paddles, the most common variety, are good for all-around use.
Most Euro and wing paddles can be feathered, which means the blades are offset from each other. The simplest way to do this is using a simple spring clamp that locks into place at pre-drilled holes in the shaft. Other paddles lock through cam locks and allow infinite adjustment.
Paddles come in different materials: wood, plastic, metal, carbon fiber, fiberglass or a combo of several materials. The higher tech materials, like carbon fiber, are often lighter and stiffer than materials like wood. Many of the newer advanced paddles incorporate foam into the blades making the blades stiffer and providing additional buoyancy. This buoyancy makes the blade feel lighter in the water.
The length of the paddle is one of the most important characteristics. A properly sized paddle will help prevent injuries and give an efficient stroke. The length is based on the paddler's height and to a certain extent the width of the boat. Generally, a kayaker should be able to wrap his fingers over the blade of the paddle with his arm extended up into the air. Several brands make paddles that vary in length. By reducing the length of the paddle during bad conditions, a kayaker effectively downshifts just like a biker downshifts to tackle hills.
Common Pitfalls
A blade that is too big for the paddler's strength or a paddle that is too long can lead to overuse injuries. Having an experience outfitter or instructor size the paddle can help avoid the problem.
Where To Buy
Getting sized for a proper paddle length is important, so it's best to buy from a local specialty shop that has paddlers on staff. If the size has been determined, online shopping is possible, but watch out for oversized box shipping charges. The extra shipping may eat up any savings you might have had.
Cost
In 2009, a basic vinyl covered metal paddle with plastic blades ran $50. Higher end carbon fiber paddles with foam-cored blades ran $450. An inexpensive quality paddle cost around $150.
Insider Tips
Spend more money on a paddle than you want to, because you'll end up with a better paddle, and better paddles equal more enjoyable paddling.
Have $10? Buy a spruce or cedar two by four and carve your own Greenland paddle. It's easy and you'll end up with a high quality paddle.
