How to choose the right paddle

I believe the most commonly asked questions I’ve seen around kayak forums are: “What kind of paddle do I need?” and “What length of paddle should I get for X, Y or Z kayak?”

For the most part, there are two types of paddling techniques: High-angle and Low-angle. And you should know what type of paddler you are.

High-angle paddling.

Using this technique the paddle will enter and glide through the water closer to the hull of your kayak, forcing the opposite elbow to rise above your shoulders. High-angle paddling is mostly used in kayak fishing, especially when sitting in high position. Strokes are usually stronger, allowing for increased displacement of the vessel while requiring less effort. Another reason for better movement of the kayak is because high-angle paddles have wider blades; therefore there will be a larger area in contact with the water pushing the heavier fishing boats better.

If you decide to go for the wider, high-angle paddles and your outings are many miles long, I would recommend you use the lightest paddle you can afford. Believe me, it will make for a more enjoyable day out on the water and you will experience less shoulder/back pain or fatigue. My paddle of choice is the Bending Branches Angler Pro Plus, which has a carbon fibre shaft with compression molded fiberglass blades weighing only 30oz.

Low-angle paddling.

This technique is mostly used when you’re sitting closer to water level and paddle with a longer shaft. Recreational and sea kayakers use low-angle paddling to cover more distance because it requires less effort making each stroke very efficient. It is easy to spot a low-angle paddler just by watching their blade enter the water much further away from the hull of the kayak and their opposite elbow doesn’t pass shoulder level. Low angle blades are much slimmer than high-angle paddles.

When I’m paddling any sit-inside kayak in the low-sitting position I always bring my Bending Branches Navigator Plus, also with a carbon fibre shaft and wooden ridge-less and more silent blades weighing just 28oz.

Size matters.

When you’re choosing the right length of paddle, you should really take into consideration your height and the width of your hull. I would recommend you use the following chart from Bending Branches.

One last piece of advice is try before you buy. You’ll be happy you did.

See y’all on the water!
Roberto Briones (@DrBOutdoors)