Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Which kayak paddles to choose

The kayak paddle is critical part of a successful kayak excursion, without it not much will happen. There are many different kinds of paddles, suited for a variety of conditions. The type of paddle is related to the type of kayak you are paddling, your size, strength and paddle technique. If you are a smaller sized person a heavy paddle can make a big difference when paddling longer distances (in a bad way…). A kayak paddle has two blades while a canoe only has one blade.

Kayak paddles are usually made of carbon fiber, aluminum or sometimes wood (not recommended). Carbon fiber and aluminum paddles are usually very lightweight and strong as long as the shaft stays solid. However, if something sharp strikes the paddle (like dropping it on a rock) you could run into a problem. An aluminum paddle usually breaks in an instant and same goes for carbon fiber paddles. If it happens you can usually do a quick-fix with a rod and some tape, it will not be very strong. The point is to always take good care of your kayak paddle. Don’t use it as a tent-pole or whatever that is not paddling related, you will regret it, I did. I always suggest a spare paddle.

Kayak paddles are usually delivered with a drop ring, if not, get new ones. A drop ring stops the water running along the shaft from the blade when paddling. It is vital for your comfort, especially when paddling in cold water. If you don't have them your hands will cool down quickly. Unfortunately, it does not stop there, the water will continue into your armpit (ops) and that’s all I am going to say about that…

Most kayak paddles are feathered, this means the blades are in different angles to each other. Because of this design the blade slices air more efficiently. There are different degrees of feather, and you should pick one that you feel most comfortable with. Try before buy…

Which kayak paddle to choose?
Touring kayak paddles are usually the longest, after that comes the surfing kayak and then the white-water one. A good idea is to get one that can be taken apart in two, sometimes more pieces. Smaller paddlers should think of smaller blade and shorter shaft, longer and stronger use the opposite. It’s not a competition.

If you are a beginner, find a decent paddle and stick with it for a while. Your paddle technique will improve overtime which makes it easier for you to make a better decision. Lighter kayak paddles cost more but can easily be worth the money.

I think the most important tip relating to kayak paddles is to have a spare. As I said before they can break, and if the conditions are bad you will be in trouble. If the paddle breaks in the middle of the ocean you will still be able to paddle with one half, but the stability of the kayak will change. It has happened to me far from shore with big waves. I felt small…

Cheers

Waterboy