Overview of Kayak Paddles


While buying kayaking equipments, a lot of attention is needed to select the right kayaks. On the other hand, a kayak paddle is simply lifted off the shelf without giving it a single thought. Finding the right kayak paddles is as essential as finding a right kayak.


The weight, length, blade symmetry and grip diameter of a paddle are some of the factors to be considered before buying.


A paddle can be divided in two main parts - the Shaft and the Blade.


Paddle Shaft: The part where the paddler rests his hands is called the shaft. Paddle shafts vary in diameter. Generally, it is believed that the larger diameter is for paddlers with large hands and vice versa. However, in reality, it is about having a comfortable grip over the shaft that will help in effortless paddling. To give a small tip, the grip diameter should be such that when a paddler grabs the shaft, he should be able to effortlessly touch his index finger and the thumb.


There are two types of paddle shafts - Bent and Straight. Bent kayak shafts ease off the pressure on the wrist joints and are very smooth and convenient to paddle with. However, Straight shafts are more commonly used, light-weight and inexpensive.


Paddle Blades: The flat parts located at either end of a paddle shaft are called blades. Kayaks are propelled with the help of these blades. These blades are around 4 to 8 inches wide. The width of a blade plays a major role in controlling and navigating a kayak.


Kayak paddle blades can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. A symmetrical paddle blade can be easily used by either hand. An asymmetrically shaped blade smoothly enters the waters and ensures easy water displacement.


Paddling blades should be carefully scrutinized as they should give the best performance as well as ease to the paddler, while cutting through the water.


The length of paddle differs on the basis of the type of kayaking, kayak width, the angle and speed at which the paddler wishes to paddle etc. Kayak paddles are available from 180 cm up to 220 cm. Ideally, short paddles are preferred by short paddlers. Similarly, shorter length paddles are recommended for aggressive paddling combined with different stroke techniques.


Kayak paddles are made of different materials like plastic, fiberglass, wood, aluminum, reinforced nylon and carbon. The weight, durability, rigidity, performance and the cost of paddles depend on the materials used.

 

References:

http://www.kayakhelp.com
http://en.kayakwiki.org/index.php
http://www.kayakingjournal.com
http://www.nrsweb.com