Picture paddling down a river and suddenly having access to an island, or getting up close and personal with a rock wall or even better, a turtle lounging on a log. Most of the time, the only way to experience this is by canoe, kayak or paddleboard. Most often, many areas on a body of water are inaccessible by foot or motor boat. However, there is a negative to paddling – it can be painfully tiresome! What is known as a rewarding adventure can become a miserable experience without the correct paddle. So, let’s make sure your canoeing experience is the best one by determining the optimal canoe paddle sizing for you.
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In this beginner’s canoe paddle guide, you’ll learn how to find the right paddle length, why weight and material matter and how to choose the correct grip for the best paddling experience. So, what are we waiting for, let’s dive in and get you paddling with confidence and without pain!
How to Size for the Right Paddle Length
First, when considering the overall length of your canoe paddle, it’s essential to find one that matches your height, the nature of paddling, and the width of your canoe. A canoe paddle that is too long or too short can lead to discomfort and fatigue, which ultimately impacts your performance on the water. Like, Goldilocks, we need to find one that is ‘just right’. There are many ways to measure, however, these methods are by far the most common.
Sizing a Canoe Paddle by Height
This first method is measured with a canoe in the water. For those who do not have access to a canoe yet, your local outfitter can help take a paddle measurement in-store or you can use the second method mentioned below.
A secondary method is to:
Canoe Paddle Length Guide
NOTE: A longer canoe paddle is optimal if you plan on covering more distance and/or paddling in larger bodies of water.However, a short paddle is ideal if you plan on maneuvering in smaller bodies of water.
Another factor to keep in mind is the width of your canoe. A wider canoe requires a longer paddle, while a narrower canoe requires a shorter paddle. A good rule of thumb is to add two inches to the length of your paddle for wider canoes or if you’re a stern paddler. Choosing the right paddle length will not only enhance your comfort but also help your performance on the water, enabling you to enjoy nature’s beauty without discomfort and fatigue.
RELATED: Introduction to Canoeing: A Guide for the New Canoeist
Canoe Paddle Weight and Material
The Stoney Paddle: Hand-Painted, Canadian-Made Paddle by Paddle Ron
Material and weight are other two factors that come into play when selecting the perfect paddle. The heavier the paddle, the harder your arms will require to work, which of course, leads to fatigue and decreased performance. On the other hand, a lightweight paddle may not provide enough power and control in the water. Let’s break down the most common types of canoe paddles to see what is best suited for you.
Wood
Many canoeists prefer wooden paddles over aluminum, fibreglass or carbon fiber. There is just something so nostalgic about a wooden paddle that compliments a canoe. Wooden paddles have so much character, especially when combined with various types of wood. The downside to wood is weight and it requires some upkeep to maintain its characteristics. On the bright side, this type of paddle is relatively inexpensive and easy to repair.
Weighing 20 oz., this lightweight basswood and maple paddle is perfect for recreational paddling. It features a classic palm grip and a Rockgard tip, which protects the blade's end. The blade measure at 6.75" x 19" and comes in three lengths: 54", 57" and 60".
Aluminum
Paddles made from aluminum are light, durable and affordable. Unfortunately, it comes at a cost, and that cost is comfort when paddling canoes on longer trips. They are also very rigid.
Fibreglass / Carbon Fiber
A more expensive but with a good balance of weight and durability are fibreglass paddles. These are the lightest and are available in many colours and designs to suit your style. Serious paddlers who value high performance and speed opt for fibreglass. However, they can be brittle and require extra care when handling. Paddleboarders and whitewater canoeists usually use fibreglass paddles as well.
Choosing the right paddle weight and material ultimately depends on your personal preference, physical ability, and budget. Before settling on a paddle, consider testing out different weights and materials before making that final decision.
This 16 oz. carbon fibre canoe paddle is perfect for fast water and quick maneuverability. With a comfortable freestyle palm grip and nylon-reinforced blade edge, you'll be ready to paddle your way through those long flat water trips.
Canoe Paddle Blade Shape
After taking measurements and having covered the paddle material, it’s time to dissect the different parts of a canoe paddle. And, yes it is something you should know as it plays a huge role in paddling. Let’s start with the paddle blade shape.
The canoe blade is the widest part of the paddle, the piece that goes into the water. Choosing the correct blade shape for your canoeing needs can be complex, but you can simplify the decision by considering the type of water you will paddle. Let’s focus on the two most popular and common types of blades.
Otter Tail and Beavertails
First up, the traditional Otter tail canoe paddle offers leverage for smooth strokes and greater control. These long slenderblades are ideal for lakes and calmer waters. The second most common is the Beavertail canoe paddle, which is shorter and wider than the otter tail, making it an optimal paddle for rivers and shallow water. The Beavertail paddles require less effort, provide lightning-fast strokes and are the easiest paddles to use.
As a side note, traditional names like Beavertail and Otter Tail can be confusing. Each manufacturer (or anywhere you look) seems to have a different take on what a Beavertail or an Otter tail paddle looks like. There are also variations on these shapes. So let us look at it as large (wider blades) vs narrow and what the differences are.
Large blades have their advantages. They are efficient and provide optimal paddling leverage. Every stroke is more effective than with a narrower paddle blade. You can also accelerate faster and manoeuvre quickly, with plenty of bite for rolls and braces – where you lay the paddle blade horizontally on the surface to bring the canoe upright. The downside is that they can be tiring over long periods and tricky to control in windy situations.
On the other hand, smaller blades (long and narrow) are easy on your muscles and joints and provide less surface area to be pushed around by the wind. The downside is that you’ll need a faster cadence to maintain cruising speed, and making quick manoeuvres can be more difficult.
Blade Size
Today, the length of the blade is often shorter and wider, with the average blade size being 20″ long and 8 ½” wide, which offers greater versatility across various aquatic environments. Larger paddle blades also provide better stability when executing braces. Lastly, rounded corners and an arced or radiused tip of the blade allow for a quieter entry and exit from the water.
RELATED: Transporting a Canoe, the Right Way
Paddle Grips and Shaft Types
The grip is the top part of the paddle, whereas the shaft is the stick of the paddle between the grip and blade. Your canoe paddle grip and shaft type are just as essential as your blade shape when choosing the right canoe paddle.
A comfortable grip can reduce hand fatigue and increase control, while the right shaft type can provide the necessary flex and stiffness for efficient paddling. The two most common paddle grips for paddlers are the T-grip and the palm grip.
T-Grip
The T-grip canoe paddle, preferred by whitewater paddlers, is a secure design that lets you wrap your fingers around the handle, thus allowing the paddler to know the exact blade position when executing different strokes. It also has a flat top and bottom for a defined shape, giving you the leverage to navigate challenging rapids.
Palm Grip
The palm grip canoe paddle is preferential for paddlers on diverse waters. This type of grip is more ergonomic and often has extra thickness added to the front and back to better fit the contours of your hand. Plus, it has enough shape to give you a firm grip but allows you to hold it loosely when desired.
When choosing a grip, ensure the grip is aligned with the blade and that the paddle is smooth and free from bumps, as these can lead to blisters. As you use your canoe paddle, you will notice that rough spots will begin to form. To prolong the lifespan of your wooden paddle, try to sand down these rough spots, as leaving them unaddressed won’t be a pleasant experience.
Discovering Shaft Types
The shaft type can also affect your performance on the water and also impact paddle selections.
Canoe Paddle Sizing Guide Conclusion
Choosing the correct canoe paddle can heavily impact your canoeing experience. And, what’s worse, it can turn you off from paddling for good if your selection is off. Not only that, but the wrong-sized paddle or blade type can also lead to injury and fatigue, and let’s face it, the point of getting into this sport is for enjoyment, not pain. So, remember that your height, paddling style and the width of the canoe all factor into choosing the optimal canoe paddle. And, don’t overlook the paddle’s weight, blade shape and shaft when choosing the best paddle length for you.
Remember, a well-suited paddle can make a big difference and transform an ordinary trip into an extraordinary adventure. So, go ahead, test out different paddles, and enjoy the tranquillity of nature with comfort and ease! And, don’t forget the spare paddle!
Comment down below if you have a favourite canoe paddle.
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