Paddle Selection

[<MIKE>]

Hi All,

I've looked through old threads and I couldn't find any on paddle selection. I know there are plenty of great articles on this subject available on the internet and I have read several. I'm just wondering what paddle length do you guys use and if it matches well with your body size and yak width. If you had to buy a new one would you buy the same length or go longer or shorter?

Thanks,

[Pinch]

First Rule, Don't Skimp..

Paddle length should be determined by your body type and prefered stroke method.

I love my Bending Branches Carbon Fiber paddle..when use it.

[surfdog]

the width of your yak must be considered also. i liked a longer paddle for my redfish because it was over 30" wide but went back to a shorter paddle for narrower kayaks like the tarpon and revo. also a paddle that you can feather, (angle the blades) is nice especially on windy days. the gull wing type of paddle looks cool but haven't tried one yet.

[Redfish12]

I'm 6'1 and like my 230 cm bending branches slice angler. If I could do it again, I would go the carbon fiber route.

Have you paddled much before? High-angle or low-angle?

[tufnik]

I heard raves about the Pacific Designs paddle, so I bought the T-1. At 230 cm, it fits fine. I'm 5' 8". It's also strong and very light (only 29 oz). Good price, and I would definitely buy another.

[<MIKE>]

I'm 6'1 and like my 230 cm bending branches slice angler. If I could do it again, I would go the carbon fiber route.

Have you paddled much before? High-angle or low-angle?

I have a 230cm bending branches slice too for my trident which is around 30" wide. I prefer a higher angle stroke but as I lose energy towards the end of an outing I tend to drop the angle. Occasionally, I hit the side of the yak but not that often that it is a problem. The reason I was asking is I bought another Kayak in order to bring a family member or friend along and I was thinking about going for the 240cm instead of another 230cm but I haven't made up my mind yet. My budget is in the fiberglass range.

[<MIKE>]

I heard raves about the Pacific Designs paddle, so I bought the T-1. At 230 cm, it fits fine. I'm 5' 8". It's also strong and very light (only 29 oz). Good price, and I would definitely buy another.

Tufnik,

Thanks for the info I'll check that brand/model out.

[ronaultmtd]

I like the Turbo fins much better than the standard fins- only downside is that in shallow water the longer fins can hit bottom- that is when I use a paddle- launching and recovering- I have the 240 CM Sting Ray paddle for that-