Traveler Recreational Wood Canoe Paddle

If you’re taking short trips with your family or friends, fishing or shore exploring, a straight-shaft recreational paddle would be the right style of paddle for you.

• The old-fashioned Beavertail paddle. A wood laminate or one piece of wood, with a long rounded blade is a great choice. These narrow and longer bladed paddles pull extremely smooth through the water, and the length helps with sweep strokes.
• If your kids’ young hands will be piloting the boat, choose a paddle with a T-grip that’s easier for them to hold on to.

While many methods exist, a simple and accurate way is to measure your torso. Sit up straight on a flat surface and measure from the surface in between your legs to your nose. Follow the chart below:

An easy way to measure in the field is to place the grip of the paddle between your legs (while sitting) and mark where the shoulder is (where blade meets shaft). The shoulder on a straight shaft should be at your forehead; the shoulder on a bent shaft should be at your nose. Note: this is only a guideline to sizing. Seat height, style of paddling, and arm length can all effect the size you need. Demo paddling is always recommended.