Best Kayak Paddle
Are you a big fan of kayaking?
Or are you only a beginner of kayaking?
Well, one of the great things about kayaking is that almost anyone can do it regardless of your experience. But you need to understand that if you develop the good paddling technique, you are going to paddle more efficiently, and you will be safer on the water. As a result, I am going to introduce you how to pick the nice kayak paddle and show you some important tips for paddling a kayak. Moreover, you are going to identify a list of the best kayak paddle these days, and then, you can choose the most suitable one for yourself.
What Should You Consider When Picking a Kayak Paddle?
When it comes to the kayaking, I highly recommend that you should buy all of the necessary equipment before actually departing. Especially, you need to have the best water shoes for kayaking as well as the best kayak paddle.
Before getting to know what is the best kayak paddle nowadays, I am going to tell you how to look for a kayak paddle. For instance, you need to consider your paddle style, the blades you want to use, as well as the materials.
The length of the paddle
The first element you need to focus is the length of the paddle. It is determined by the height of the paddler and the width of the boat. The paddles range in length from 200 centimeters up to about 260 centimeters.
Besides, it is a good idea to select the 2-piece or 4-piece kayak paddle. In particular, you can separate the blades from the shaft, which enables you to have a very compact design. In addition, it can easily fit in your backpack.
The blade design
Next, there are 2 basic blade designs that you should know including the high-angle blade and the low-angle blade. The high-angle blade is generally shorter and fatter than the low one. Moreover, it is most often used by the athletic paddlers.
On the other hand, the low-angle paddle paddles are much longer and skinnier. This means that they are made for a much more horizontal paddle stroke for recreational kayakers and long-distance touring.
Furthermore, a very basic paddle has the symmetrical blade, but these days, most paddles have an asymmetrical blade. This kind of design allows you to have a larger surface area of the blade, which will give you more power when coming through the water.
However, the symmetrical paddle will be the great choice for a very high level of entry while an asymmetrical paddle is better for a low angle of entry. Besides, when selecting a blade type, you should consider the one that has the dihedral angle.
A dihedral angle on the tip of the paddle will give you more even water distribution, less flutter, and more stable stroke through the water.
The materials of the paddle
If you are interested in kayaking, you may know that paddles are made of different types of material. The paddles may be designed with the aluminum shaft, the plastic or nylon blade, which will make the whole price cheaper.
The other paddles can be made with carbon fiberglass shaft, along with the fiberglass-injected nylon blade. Moreover, these items can be produced with a full carbon shaft and fiberglass blade. And of course, the high-end paddles are going to be made with a full carbon shaft and a foam injected carbon blade.
As your paddles step up in price with different materials, you can gain a number of things. With higher quality, you can have a much stiffer construction in the blades in a much lighter construction. This is going to give you a high efficiency on the water as well as less fatigue while paddling.
If you are going to have a long paddling session, make sure to choose the blade made of carbon or composite for the light weight. Also, when selecting the paddle for touring, it is important to get a high-visibility blade since it allows you to see in a long distance.
The shaft of the paddle
Most kayak paddles come in either a straight shaft or a bent shaft. One outstanding benefit of buying the bent shaft paddle is that it will cause less wear and tear on your wrist, elbows, and shoulders when paddling long distances.
Furthermore, most paddles come with 2 different shaft diameters such as the small shaft diameter and the standard shaft diameter. The paddles with smaller hands tend to have less fatigue and enjoy paddling more often with a smaller diameter shaft.
And well, most paddles are fixed length, but there are other ones that also offers the adjustable barrels. This allows you to adjust the paddle size up to 10 centimeters. With the adjustable ferrule, you only need to untwist the shaft and adjust the paddle size
The type of kayak you are using
When choosing the paddle, it is essential to know the type of kayak that you are going to paddle. The sit-inside kayak typically requires a shorter paddle. Meanwhile, the sit-on-top kayak will need a little bit of a longer paddle as you are sitting a little bit further off of the water.
The drip ring
Moving to the next point, most kayak paddles come with the drip ring, which prevents the water from coming off the blade and running down the shaft. As a result, you will no longer be afraid of the water getting into your kayak or on top of yourself.
The blade size
The last thing to consider when buying a kayak paddle is your blade size. A larger, heavier, and more experienced paddler is going to use a standard blade, so they can use more power to propel their way through the water.
However, the smaller paddler with less experience will need the smaller blade. All in all, the paddle is potentially the most important piece of kayaking gear you can own. It is the connection between you and the water. So, knowing how to choose the best kayak paddle is considered as a must for any fans of paddling.
Top 6 Best Kayak Paddle
Product Name
Quality
Price
Our Rating
Carlisle Predator Fiberglass Paddle - Straight Shaft
A
$$
AQUA BOUND Aquabound Manta Ray Hybrid PosiLok Kayak Paddle
A+
$$
AQUA BOUND Aquabound Manta Ray Carbon Posi-Lok 2 Piece Kayak Paddle
A-
$$$
SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle
A+
$
Carlisle Magic Plus Kayak Paddle - Polypro Blades/Fiberglass Shaft
A
$$
SeaSense X-Treme II Mix Kayak Paddle
A+
$
1. Carlisle Predator Fiberglass Paddle - Straight Shaft
Via: www.amazon.com
BUY IT NOW ON AMAZON!
First and foremost, we are going to do a quick review about Carlisle Predator Fiberglass Paddle. This item is very popular for many kayak lovers since they come in a very unique and attractive color, which is called as urban camo.
Another good thing about this product is the hook retriever, as well as the water stops. Moreover, this product is made of fiberglass, which is a good news for you. The reason is that fiberglass will make them lighter when compared with the other products in the current market. Besides, Carlisle Predator Fiberglass Paddle offers a very nice and solid grip when you hold these paddles.
Furthermore, you can have about 3 options for your feathering by pushing the suitable buttons in the body of the paddle. By doing this, you can lock the paddles into place properly. And conversely, you can separate them into 2 pieces easily for better storage and save more space.
Pros:
Cool color and nice design
Lightweight
Easy to assemble and disassemble
Tight and fit shafts
Cons:
Tend to have some waterlogged issues
2. AQUA BOUND Aquabound Manta Ray Hybrid PosiLok Kayak Paddle
Via: www.amazon.com
BUY IT NOW ON AMAZON!
Going to the next one, we are going to discover some amazing factors of AQUA BOUND Aquabound Manta Ray Carbon Posi-Lok 2 Piece Kayak Paddle. This product is designed with large blades, so they can support your arm movement with more power. Moreover, if you prefer paddling with the high angle, this item should be your prioritize.
Furthermore, the blades are made of fiberglass fibers, which does not only reduce the entire weight of the paddle but also make the whole construction more durable. Besides, you are able to adjust the feathering at ease thanks to the Posi-Lok ferrule.
Also, you will feel more secure since this product consists of the dual button release. On top of that, you will get amazed to know that the shafts are ovalized carbon. Thus, they can do a good job at reducing your joint pain along with your fatigue after paddling for a long time.
In addition, you do not have to worry about the waterlogging. The fantastic design of the drip rings can keep the water from flowing into the paddles lap. With all of these incredible features, why don’t you hurry to make your order instantly?
Pros:
Perfect item for high-angle paddlers
Lightweight and durable blades
The high-quality shaft can prevent you from fatigue
Easy to adjust the feather angle
Cons:
High price
3. AQUA BOUND Aquabound Manta Ray Carbon Posi-Lok 2 Piece Kayak Paddle
Via: www.amazon.com
BUY IT NOW ON AMAZON!
The third option in this list belongs to AQUA BOUND Aquabound Manta Ray Hybrid PosiLok Kayak Paddle. If you are looking for the paddles that are ultra light to use on a regular basis, this product should appear in your mind immediately.
Thanks to the carbon fiber, this pair of paddles will absolutely be one of the most lightweight product at this moment. Also, they will provide you with extra strength when paddling in the water. By doing this, you can save more of your energy and strength for the tougher path.
Therefore, when you take part in the kayak for many days, you need to think about AQUA BOUND Aquabound Manta Ray Hybrid PosiLok Kayak Paddle. You can have the best trip, the most comfortable condition, together with the greatest grip.
In addition, we cannot ignore the Posi-Lok ferrule system, which makes this product more outstanding. This system will support you to change the feathering angle without any difficulties. At the same time, you can also lock the paddle pieces in place when necessary. As a consequence, the length of this paddle will run from 210 to 250 cm based on your preference.
Pros:
Suitable for white waters, kayaking, and fishing
The shaft and the blades are made of carbon fiber, which is very lightweight
High angle
Can be separated into 2 pieces to carry around easily
Cons:
You cannot remove the blades
4. SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle
Via: www.amazon.com
BUY IT NOW ON AMAZON!
Next, SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle will definitely capture your heart with a number of outstanding features. If you are following the high-angle paddling style, you should notice this product immediately.
Moreover, this item comes in 2 different sizes so that you can purchase the suitable one for your height and also your kayak width. I have to admit that the good price and the great construction turns this product into the desirable choice for most of the customers.
Furthermore, SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle is very portable as you can separate it into 2 parts. And then, you can put them into your cars or your bags during your travel. I cannot resist the attraction of the feathered blades with a total of 3 locking positions.
By having this aspect, you do not have much difficulty fighting against the strong wind and rough waves. Besides, you can feel free to change the angle that is appropriate for your paddling style.
With this product, its shaft and blades are made of aluminum and fiberglass nylon respectively. These elements can prevent your paddle from corrosion and rust. As a consequence, remember that you can use SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle in both freshwater and salt water.
Are you worried about getting wet after dipping the blades into the water so many times? If your answer is yes, this product is designed with the adjustable drip guards, which will avoid this issue for you very well.
Pros:
The feathered blades can ensure the strong strokes
The materials are very sturdy and high quality
Portable paddles
Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater
Offers 3 locking positions
Not sink if you accidentally drop it into the water
Cons:
The shaft’s diameter is quite small for the adults
5. Carlisle Magic Plus Kayak Paddle - Polypro Blades/Fiberglass Shaft
Via: www.amazon.com
BUY IT NOW ON AMAZON!
If you mention the best kayak paddle, Carlisle Magic Plus Kayak Paddle deserves to earn a spot on this list. With all of its incredible features, you cannot have another choice but to make the purchase at once. For instance, it is excellent at enduring the tough condition as well as deal with any water situations.
First of all, we cannot forget the brilliant blades which are designed with fiberglass polypropylene. Moreover, the asymmetrical shape of the blades allows the whole paddle to overcome any kinds of conditions. And of course, this wonderful paddle is suitable for a variety of paddling styles.
Besides the great blades, the shaft of this product is also made of wrapped fiberglass. That is why this component of Carlisle Magic Plus Kayak Paddle is both durable and flexible at the same time. Furthermore, you can have many choices for yourself since this product comes in 3 different sizes with very ideal dimensions and appealing colors.
Pros:
The blades are made of high quality and great shape
Suitable for many paddling types, especially the low angle
Sturdy and portable
The shaft is long, durable and flexible
Offer great value for your money
Cons:
Quite heavy
The diameter of the shaft is a bit thick
Not recommended for the beginners
6. SeaSense X-Treme II Mix Kayak Paddle
Via: www.amazon.com
BUY IT NOW ON AMAZON!
Last but not least, SeaSense X-Treme II Mix Kayak Paddle will become the prominent name to end this list. With no doubt, you will become immersed in the design and the color of this product after having the first look.
Another good news for you is that the blades of this item come with 2 colors when being attached to the black shaft. And well, this product will maximize your satisfaction since it has a diversity of incredible blade functions for every condition.
Similar to the above products, SeaSense X-Treme II Mix Kayak Paddle can be broken into two pieces when traveling. Especially, the entire construction only weighs 2.25lbs, which can attract anyone who is focusing on the portability.
Moreover, the asymmetrical blade will help you to increase the efficiency of your stroke. Hence, the perfect blade design will allow you to take part in surf kayaking, fishing, along with tough water touring.
Furthermore, you do not have to care about your wet hands during your paddling. In particular, you can adjust the drip guards to prevent yourself from being wet. And no matter you are the high or low-angle paddling style, SeaSense X-Treme II Mix Kayak Paddle can satisfy all of your types thanks to the multiple locking positions.
Pros:
The paddle will float on the water surface if you accidentally drop it
Portable and lightweight paddle
The drip guards can protect you from the water
The locking positions can be suitable for any paddling styles
Cons:
The paddle sizes are quite small
Suggest producing the thicker grip
How to Paddle a Kayak Properly
Applying the poor technique on kayaking will tire your body much more quickly. Moreover, you will be less prepared to deal with the changing conditions as well as the dangerous situations. Practicing the good technique will help you to easily solve the unexpected and challenging water or weather conditions.
The proper sitting position
The first thing we are going to look at is the proper sitting position in a kayak. In particular, you need to sit up with the good posture. By doing this, you can paddle harder, faster, further, and you can also avoid some health issues such as back pain.
Paddling with good posture means sitting upright and not leaning back. Your feet should be resting comfortably and securely against the foot pedals. Simultaneously, your legs should be flexed, and this leg position can reduce the strain on your hamstrings and your back.
How to use your paddle properly
The second technique we are going to discuss is your paddle technique. In most cases, the feathered paddles are designed for right-handed people, which means your right hand is your control hand. So, you need to keep a firm but relaxed grip on the shaft at all times.
Your control hand should grip the paddle, and your big knuckles should be aligned with the edge of your paddle blade. Your other hand should hold the paddle with an equal distance from the other blade.
An easy way to check if your hands are in good position is to lift your paddle onto your head. Your elbows should be bent at around 90 degrees because this will give you the best mix of control and power.
And remember that after taking a stroke with the blade by your control hand, you will loosen the grip with the other hand. Thus, you can rotate the shaft within it. This rotation is necessary to accommodate the feather of your paddle. So, your next blade can be placed squarely in the water.
Conclusion
In summary, I hope that all of my sharing will give you an overview of how to choose the best kayak paddle. From now on, you can pick the most suitable one for yourself without any troubles. However, in case you have any queries or confusion, please do not hesitate to keep in touch with me anytime.