What is the difference in the materials?
Aluminum paddles are usually your least expensive option. They are made up of an aluminum shaft with plastic blades. Aluminum paddles will be the heaviest of the kayak paddles. These paddles will also conduct cold through the paddle shaft and into your hands on cold days or in cold water. The aluminum shaft will require the most maintenance to prevent corrosion. Due to the lower price, aluminum paddles make excellent back up paddles.
Fiberglass paddles are the most popular. They are lighter weight than aluminum paddles and are generally easier to maintain. Fiberglass paddles are the most popular choice due to the price and performance they deliver (less expensive than carbon fiber and lighter than aluminum). Most recreational paddlers prefer fiberglass over aluminum paddles due to weight and performance. Unlike aluminum paddles fiberglass does not conduct temperature through the shaft. We call these the “best value paddles” due to weight, performance, and cost.
Carbon Fiber Kayak Paddles are going to give you more performance than fiberglass paddles. Carbon paddles are the lightest of the kayak paddles. These paddles are the paddle of choice for paddlers who often do long range or multi day kayak trips. These will be the most expensive of the paddles but are well worth the price if weight and performance are an issue. Like fiberglass paddles carbon does not conduct temperature on cold days and generally require less maintenance then aluminum. If you want the best carbon paddles are it!
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What length paddle is best for me?
Paddles for flat water will range in length from 210cm to 240cm. The most common length paddle for sit-on-top kayaks is 230cm. Most sit-on-top kayaks range from 28”-32” wide. If you do not know the width of your kayak please visit the manufacturer’s website for specifications.
| Paddler Height |
Boat Width Under 23" |
Boat Width 23" - 25" |
Boat Width 25" + |
| Under 5' |
210 |
220 |
230 |
| 5' - 5'6" |
215 |
220 |
230 |
| 5'6" - 6' |
220 |
220 |
230 |
| 6' + |
220 |
230 |
240 |
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What is feathering?
Feathering refers to the position of the blades. Blades can be either feathered or non-feathered. Non-feathered blades are positioned parallel to each other. This is the position most entry level paddlers use. Feathered blades are rotated at an angle to each other usually 45 to 90 degrees. The largest benefit of using a paddle in the feathered position is the reduced wind resistance against the blade. As one blade strokes through the water, the other slices easier through the air.
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What are the differences in Blade Shapes?
Symmetrical blades are blades that have an equal shaped blade, usually more square shaped at the end of the blade. Symmetrical blades offer large amounts of power and acceleration. These types of paddles are usually used for activities such as kayak surfing or whitewater paddling. These paddles are not a good choice for sit-on-top our touring kayaks.
Asymmetrical blades are the most efficient. They are more narrow than symmetrical blades and are better for a more horizontal stroke. If will be paddling long distances, or just want to reduce fatigue asymmetrical blades are the best choice. Today asymmetrical blades are the most popular.
Blades are usually either flat, or spooned. Spooned blades are curved much like a “spoon”. This allows the blade to pull more water with each paddle stroke. Flat blades are not highly desirable for flat water paddling.
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What are the differences in paddle Shafts?
Paddles shafts are available in one piece, two piece, and four piece shafts. One piece shafts are generally the strongest and are the preferred shaft for kayak surfing or whitewater kayaking. You cannot adjust the feather on one piece paddles. Two piece paddles are the paddle of choice of touring kayakers. Two piece paddles allow you to use the paddle feathered or non-feathered. Two piece paddles are also easier to transport and store inside you kayak for use as a backup. Four piece paddles are usually used for inflatable kayaks. They break down to the smallest size and are the best for traveling.
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Do I need a backup paddle?
UP Sports always recommends carrying a backup paddle for all paddling activities. You can purchase an inexpensive aluminum paddle and store it in or on your kayak adding only minimal weight and taking up only a small amount of space. If you lose or break your primary paddle a back up paddle can be a lifesaver!
If you still have more questions call UP Sports toll free at 877-99-KAYAK and one of our kayaking experts will be happy to help you!
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