Did you know that there is a science behind choosing a paddle? Okay, maybe not a science, however, definite reasoning behind choosing the right Kayak Paddle. When I started out kayaking 2 years ago I went to my local sporting goods store and purchased one that fit the budget. I also had a simpler kayak then, so I didn’t think I needed anything fancy. Boy, was I wrong!
Rewind to last year, yes, it took me that long to realize that I needed to upgrade my paddle. When my husband went to our awesome local kayaking store to buy our daughter her kayak they explained to us about choosing a paddle. Of course, the paddles are a little more pricey but they are totally worth it. After being educated on the different types of paddles, we ended up buying me a new one. Shortly after this new purchase, we took our kayaks out as a family and I got to use my new paddle for the first time! It was like a whole new world, it gave me the insight on the difference a paddle can make. I was able to paddle without covering myself in water. It also made it easier to glide through the water compared to the cheaper one that I had originally purchased.
Choosing the proper paddle is very important, especially if you plan on make kayaking a regular outing. There are a few things to take into consideration when you are choosing your paddle:
Your height needs to be taken into consideration, along with the width of your kayak. The paddle will need to be long enough to clear the sides of your kayak when you are paddling. That was one of my mistakes.
What type of kayaking you will be doing, also plays a huge role in this as well. If you are wanting to do recreational kayaking, then your paddle will be budget friendly and will be a little bit heavier and shorter. Touring kayaking is what my family does, which is longer distance in open bodies of water, like lakes and rivers. These paddles tend to be lightweight, durable for longer paddling and a little more pricey. Performance kayak paddles are ideal for speed, power, and are ultra-light weight for continual paddling. Then there is, of course, is whitewater kayaking where you need a tougher paddle that is designed to withstand the beatings it will take against the many rocks you’ll encounter and working your way through strong currents.
So the next time you are looking at paddles you too will know the difference per your needs of kayaking. Now since it’s almost kayaking season get out there to upgrade your paddle if needed and enjoy the beauty of nature on some open waters.
