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With warmer weather on the horizon, it’s a fantastic time to consider what fun activities to do outdoors. Water sports like kayaking are a great way to get exercise and enjoy nature at the same time. Whether you are looking to go on solo trips or spend time with family or friends, kayaking can be a part of your next new adventure!
Don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry, we have you covered. Besides getting the actual kayak boat, it is important to select the right paddle for your journeys. Our top 10 list begins with the Bending Branches bounce paddle because it was designed with beginner kayakers in mind and has important features like a non-slip grip and heavy-duty drip rings. Read on to see more great selections, along with our comprehensive buying guide to help you select the paddle that’s right for you.
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Here are some handy tips to consider when looking for the right kayak paddle for your future adventures.
In order to choose the right paddle for you, you will need to take the size and weight of the paddle into consideration.
There are size charts that compare different paddler heights and boat widths in order to provide suggestions as to what paddle size to get. For example, a chart could say that if you are a paddler over six feet tall with a boat width over 32 inches, then they may suggest a paddle that is 250 centimeters long.
Weight is another important factor to consider. You might see a 27-ounce paddle and a 37-ounce paddle but not think that 10 ounces make much of a difference.
However, using a heavier paddle can ultimately lead to faster fatigue. Definitely consider a paddle that weighs less, especially if you plan on taking longer kayaking trips.
Instead, there are often aluminum shafts, which are quite durable. However, this material can get really cold or hot, so it is wise to keep that in mind when considering weather conditions and storage solutions.
As for blade materials, there are variations of plastic blades, including blends with nylon and fiberglass, and these are often selected by recreational paddlers because they are more budget-friendly. However, if left out in the sun, plastic can crack and degrade over time.
Fiberglass blades are more lightweight than plastic, which can be beneficial in terms of helping prevent fatigue. They may chip but usually won’t crack. These blades are quite durable and efficient.
If you are seeking blades for top performance, go with carbon fiber. They are ultralight and the stiffness allows for extremely efficient energy transfer with every stroke.
Bent shafts can help reduce discomfort and fatigue because of the ergonomic angle they have. However, it can be hard to get used to paddling with a bent shaft if you are just starting out kayaking because they require more technical stroke techniques. When switching from one style to another, give yourself time to adjust your stroke technique.
Paddles nowadays usually use an asymmetrical dihedral shape, which is a blade that is at an angle and has a rib running down the center.
Narrower blades are lighter, so they tend to be more comfortable for longer kayaking trips. Wider blades are great for powerful strokes that allow you to move more quickly.
Kayak paddle blades are either matched or feathered. Matched means that both blades face the water at the same angle. Feathered means that each blade faces the water at a different angle.
Beginner kayakers generally start off with flatwater kayaking because it's calm and easier to paddle in. When you eventually start kayaking in more challenging areas, you will want to use features like feathered blades because they can cut through the air and water faster.
Most paddles allow you to change the angles of the blades so that you can change the angles as you gain experience and want more of a challenge.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Bending Branches Bounce Paddle | $79.95 Mid | Solid, Simple, Straightforward Style | ||
2 | Werner Camano Paddle | $285.00 High Mid | Lightweight Design Ideal for Longer Trips | ||
3 | Carlisle Magic Plus Fiberglass Paddle | $99.99 Mid | Stylish and Powerful Design | ||
4 | Werner Skagit Kayak Paddle | $165.00 High Mid | Portable Paddle Excellent for Saving Space | ||
5 | Aqua-Bound Tango Fiberglass Posi-Lok Paddle | $399.95 High | Bent Shaft Allows for Ergonomic Grip | ||
6 | Oceanbroad Kayak Paddle With Leash | $39.95 Low Mid | Perfect for Casual Paddlers | ||
7 | Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle | $139.95 High Mid | A Strong Paddle for Kayak Fishing | ||
8 | Carlisle Day Tripper Paddle | $49.99 Low Mid | Convenient Paddle for Day Trips | ||
9 | SeaSense Kayak Paddle | $44.89 Low Mid | Comfortable Paddle for Recreational Use | ||
10 | Harmony Sea Passage Kayak Paddle | $54.99 Low Mid | Versatile Recreational Paddle |
This paddle has a design that is mindful of factors that are especially important to beginners. The comfortable X-grips help you maintain a non-slip hold while paddling. It also comes with heavy-duty rubber drip rings that reduce the amount of water that runs down the paddle shaft into your boat and onto you.
Another benefit of this paddle is the contrast of colors. The yellow blades increase your visibility on the water and the yellow grips set against the black shaft can aid in easy hand placement.
This paddle is constructed of a fiberglass and carbon blend, which makes it very lightweight and durable. Lightweight paddles help to reduce fatigue on your longer trips. The blades come in three color gradations, or a mountain and stream pattern.
A couple reviewers suggested being careful if you are paddling through rockier areas as the blades might get scratched up, but they absolutely loved the beautiful colors. Many reviewers also raved about how strong and lightweight this paddle is and said it made paddling feel like a breeze.
The flexibility and usability of this paddle make it ideal for beginner kayakers doing various types of recreational paddling. The blades have a slightly spooned shape that can help provide more power in your strokes for maximum performance. It has adjustable feathering options and can break down for convenient storage.
Several reviewers mentioned that this paddle is easy to use for beginners, and they appreciated how lightweight it is because it made their paddling journeys much more comfortable.
Because this paddle can break down into four pieces, it can save storage space and is easier to transport. This paddle also has fiberglass-reinforced nylon blades, which are built to resist wear and allow for effective strokes.
A couple reviewers stated that it was easy to take apart and put back together. Even though it breaks down into four pieces, it feels like a solid one-piece paddle when it is all put together.
If you’re a beginner but are wanting to take the plunge and go for a premium paddle, this is an excellent choice! The ergonomic shaft is designed to give users a comfortable grip. The locking mechanism lets you choose your feather angle. The fiberglass blades will make paddling effortless.
Built to last and made of sturdy materials, this paddle will be a great companion on those longer trips in your kayaking future.
This paddle is a great choice for beginner kayakers who don't go on long trips every weekend. This paddle has a tube cover on the shaft to provide you with a better grip and it even comes with a bungee paddle leash to keep it attached to your kayak.
A few buyers said the handle connection was a bit loose and that the leash broke too easily. But most reviewers stated they appreciated the soft grip design because it made using the paddle feel more comfortable. Many were pleased about the quality and how beginner-friendly it was.
For kayakers that are hoping to incorporate fishing into their adventures, this paddle has been built with that activity in mind. Fishing kayak paddles like this one have a useful groove in the blade to help bring in your catch and untangle lines. This sturdy paddle even has a tape measure on the shaft for early measurements of your catch.
A reviewer mentioned that they appreciate the length of this paddle because it let them avoid raising the paddle too high. This minimized the level of splash and noise it makes, which can be helpful when fishing.
If you are looking for a smooth paddling experience, this paddle can provide it. It has a pushbutton to control the angle of the feathered blades. Having this adjustability allows you to have better control during your paddling adventures.
This paddle is a great choice for novice paddlers to start off with or even for those who are looking for a spare paddle in addition to their main one. Reviewers say it’s easy to use and does the job while being simple to transport.
This paddle comes in a variety of colors to choose from. It has adjustable drip guards and foam hand grips to provide more comfort during your kayaking journeys.
A few reviewers mentioned that this paddle may be more ideal for those with smaller hands because the diameter size of the shaft is a bit smaller than other paddles. Many reviewers commented that this paddle was a great purchase and enjoy using it for recreational paddling.
This paddle is notable because it is one piece, rather than a multiple piece paddle. One-piece paddles are generally slightly stronger than paddles that break down into multiple parts. Its asymmetrical blades and oval-shaped handgrips provide comfort and control.
This versatile paddle can be used for various recreational waters. If storage space is a concern, then you may find a paddle that breaks down more ideal. But if you are looking for a paddle that's strong enough for both oceans and rivers, you will enjoy that this paddle has a durable one-piece aluminum shaft.
If you want to stay active while enjoying the great outdoors, here are additional sports equipment suggestions to add more fun into your outings!
No. 1: Bending Branches |Bounce Paddle
No. 2: Werner |Camano Paddle
No. 3: Carlisle|Magic Plus Fiberglass Paddle
No. 4: Werner |Skagit Kayak Paddle
No. 5: Aqua-Bound |Tango Fiberglass Posi-Lok Paddle
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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