Equipment: Paddles

The kayak paddle has twin blades, mounted on opposite ends of a long shaft. By having two blades, the kayak paddle eliminates the need for a canoe style cross-over to propel the boat in a straight line. Kayak paddles are usually made of wood, fiberglass, carbon-fiber or some other type of plastic composite material. The shaft may be constructed of the same material or aluminum. Paddles can range greatly in price, depending upon material and design.

Blade Width

One of the greatest considerations in selecting a paddle is the blade width. The width determines how easy a paddle moves through the water. Narrow blades (less than 6 inches wide) are less stressful on muscles and wrists due to reduced water resistance. With a narrow paddle, you do have to maintain a more rapid stroke rate to keep up with someone using a wider blade. Wider blades have more surface area and can propel the kayak faster with the same number of strokes. On the downside, a wider blade requires more effort.

Shaft Length

Kayak paddles are usually measured in centimeters. Most sea kayak paddles are 210 to 250 cm. The length of the paddle you need depends on your size, the size of your kayak and the type of paddling you intend on doing. If you paddle mostly rivers, are of small frame, or paddle a heavily loaded kayak, use a shorter paddle. If you have a larger frame, lightly loaded kayak or travel in mostly saltwater (except surf), you might want to try a longer paddle. Generally, it's better to err on the shorter side.

The rate of paddling changes depending on the length of the paddle shaft. Shorter paddles are less demanding on muscles, but increase the rate of paddling. Longer paddles decrease the rate of paddling for maintaining the same speed, but require more muscular effort. Paddles with longer shafts tend to have narrower blades.

Paddle shafts may consist of a single segment or may come in two (or sometimes more) sections. Paddles that break down into two pieces are much easier to store, transport and carry on your kayak as a spare. Usually high quality two-piece paddles are as strong as those with a single section.

Feathering

You should be able to feather the paddle, by rotating the two sections and locking them in-place. Feathering is where the paddle blades are at 50 to 90 degree angles to each other. This allows the blade that is out of the water to move much easier through the air. Beginners should generally learn with the paddles in the straight position as it is easier to learn bracing techniques.

Spare Paddles

It's a good idea to purchase a spare paddle can carry it on every trip. Don't skimp on the spare, as the only time you'll really need it is after you've lost your primary paddle. If you think you don't really need a spare, try paddling with your kayak any distance by hand without a paddle.

Recommendations

A good first paddle for beginning sea kayakers consists of asymmetrical blades about 17"-18" inches in length and 7" in height. The blades should be made of fiberglass or nylon on a fiberglass or carbon-fiber shaft. The paddle should break into two sections and weight no more than 2 1/2 pounds.

Don't skimp when purchasing a paddle. If you purchase a cheap clunker, you'll soon either give up on kayaking or will be visiting the store in search of a replacement. Expect to pay between $100 and $180 USD for a good first paddle.