Hello, I'm the OUTDOOR PROFESSOR from DiscoveringTheOutdoors.com/
Here's your outdoor tip on choosing a canoe paddle.
Choosing a canoe paddle is not a difficult task. How the paddle feels in your hands can be as important as other factors such as shape, size and grip. A good paddle isn’t magic, but a bad paddle of the wrong size can be like trying to paddle with a 2x4.
Canoe paddles are usually about 52" to 60" and offered in 2" increments. Bent-shaft paddles are generally shorter with wider blades and are commonly 48" to “54.” There are several ways to choose a paddle length.
When you are on the water, sit inside the canoe and measure the vertical distance from the tip of your nose to the waterline. This should be the same distance as the distance from the paddle’s grip to the throat where the shaft hits the blade. In a store, kneel with your butt about 6” from the floor as if you were in a canoe. Place the paddle grip on the floor and the throat of the paddle should be between your chin and nose. If you are at home, measure the floor to nose distance as above and add this measurement to about 20” representing the blade length. For bent shaft paddles deduct 2” from the above and for wider boats add 2” to the length.
Lighter paddles cause less fatigue for long trips, but balance, strength and flexibility should not be overlooked. Flatwater paddlers look for flexibility in a paddle, but whitewater canoers look for a stiff paddle.
Wood paddles are most popular with beautiful finishes available and responsiveness. They do require some upkeep to maintain their appearance and longevity. Aluminum or plastic paddles are less comfortable than wood, but can be good spare or beginner paddles. Fiberglass and other materials can be seen for more specialized paddling.
Blade shapes can be specialized, but paddles blades 8” to 20” are most common. A palm or pear-shaped grip fits naturally into the palm of your hand and is popular. T-grips let you wrap your fingers around the handle for precise control and solid grip making them popular for whitewater paddlers and young people.
A straight shaft is good for general paddling and allows a variety of strokes. Bent shafts can be good for flatwater paddling as the position of the blade is set for maximum efficiency remaining vertical in the water during the post powerful part of the stroke. Shafts can be round, but oval shafts offer a more comfortable grip.
You will find that most major companies have a buyers’ guide for paddles. This should enable you to make an informed choice for your paddle purchase. There is no substitute for trying the paddle on the water to see if it fits your personal needs. “Try before you buy” is always my motto—if at all possible.
This is the OUTDOOR PROFESSOR from DiscoveringTheOutdoors.com/
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References-Additional Reading
Canoe Paddles: How to Choose
http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/canoe-paddle.html
Cannot go up the creek without one: Choosing a Canoe Paddle
http://www.paddling.net/guidelines/showArticle.html?13
Choosing a Paddle: Sizing
http://www.madrivercanoe.com/education_portal/index/learn/choosing_a_paddle_sizing
Nature Quotient.
eBook @Amazon.com
Outdoor Professor’s Tips: Exploring the Wonders of Nature
eBook @Amazon.com
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