Kayaking is a popular recreational activity that people of all ages enjoy. One of the most important pieces of equipment for kayaking is the paddle. A good paddle can make all the difference in terms of comfort, efficiency, and overall enjoyment while out on the water.
When it comes to choosing a kayak paddle, there are several factors to consider, such as kayak paddle length, width, material, and blade design. Choosing a paddle that is the right size for your body and paddling style is important.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the best kayak paddles on the market, highlighting their key features and benefits. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there is sure to be a paddle that is the perfect fit for you.
How We Search For The Best Choice
Choosing a kayak paddle can be a difficult task. There are so many different types of kayak paddles available, and each type has its own benefits and drawbacks.
As a beginner, you might not know how to choose the best kayak paddle for your needs. This guide will help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing a kayak paddle.
We want you to get the most out of your paddling experience. That's why we've taken the time to research and review all of the best kayak paddles.
Material
The material of the paddle is very important. It should be strong and durable. If it is not strong enough, it could break easily in case of a fall or a collision with rocks or other objects.
It should also be light so that it does not add weight to your kayak. The lighter the paddle, the easier it would be to use it for longer periods of time without getting tired.
Weight
The best kayak paddle should be lightweight so that you can use it for long periods of time without getting tired easily.
If you are looking for a paddle that children can use, then look for those that have less weight than others and those that are made from materials that are easy to cut through the water with less effort from your part.
Shape
We search for paddles that are lightweight, easy to use and have a good grip. The shape of the paddle is what makes it so important.
It’s crucial that you get one that fits your hand well and feels comfortable. A well-designed paddle will allow you to get in and out of the water with ease.
Price
Some paddles are more expensive than others because they are made with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship. You can find a great deal on kayak paddles by shopping online or looking at different kinds of stores near your home.
Our Top Picks
Finding the perfect kayak paddle can be overwhelming, with so many brands, styles, and features to choose from. But don't worry; we've got you covered! Our team of experts has researched and analyzed various products to bring you our top 5 picks for the best kayak paddles of the year.
With our top choices, you can be confident you'll have a reliable and efficient paddle for your next adventure. So, let's dive in and discover your perfect match!
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
The Oceanbroad Kayak Paddle is a paddle designed for use in kayaking and boating. It features an alloy paddle shaft, a material known for its strength and durability.
The paddle also comes with a paddle leash, which is a useful safety feature that allows you to secure the paddle to your kayak or boat in case you accidentally drop it.
This affordable and dependable paddle makes it a good choice for recreational and serious kayakers and boaters.
Things That Are Good To Know
This is a durable and affordable option for paddlers of all skill levels. The fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene blade is stiff, which can be helpful for more advanced paddlers who are looking to maximize their power efficiency.
The shaft has three locking positions to keep your hands in the perfect spot, no matter if you're going fast or slow. Users have also praised it for preventing blistering, with one reviewer saying "I am so grateful that I did not get blisters on my hand!"
The paddle comes with a free leash that allows you to attach your paddle to your kayak while still being able to grab it if needed!
Fun Story From A Product User
A delighted user wrote:
"I've used this product for the past 2 years, and I can't say enough good things about it! The paddle is extremely durable and has taken a beating from being stored in my car. It's also lightweight enough to carry around for extended periods of time.
I've taken it on several kayak trips and have never had any issues with it breaking or coming apart. This paddle is great for beginners who don't want to spend too much money on their first paddle."
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
The Magic Plus Kayak Paddle is a paddle manufactured by Carlisle, a company that specializes in producing paddles and oars for various watercraft. The Magic Plus model is a versatile paddle suitable for a wide range of kayaking activities and designed for recreational and performance use.
It features a lightweight and durable aluminum shaft, and polypropylene blades. It is also designed with a ribbed grip for added comfort and control. The paddle comes in different sizes and color options.
Things That Are Good To Know
The Carlisle Magic Plus is a durable kayak paddle that is perfect for beginners. The blades are made from glass-filled polypropylene, and they have an asymmetrical design with a slightly curved blade shape.
The shaft has a wrapped fiberglass construction which makes it more comfortable to hold than other kayak paddles on this list. Finally, there are ovalized shaft indexes so that you can easily feel where your hand should be, even when wearing gloves or mittens during cold weather paddling sessions!
This model also features a no-fail push button mechanism, so you can easily change from right-handed control to left-handed control at any time without having to worry about fumbling around with screws or bolts like some other models do (not everyone has this feature, though).
Fun Story From A Product User
A satisfied customer said:
"The paddle is sturdy and well-made. It's light enough to carry but heavy enough not to feel flimsy easily. The blade locks into place when retracted, which makes it safer to store in the car.
I like the fact that the paddle can be adjusted for different lengths of paddling. This allows me to change between a longer or shorter stroke as needed during a trip down the river or lake.
I bought this paddle because I wanted something that could handle being used in salt water without rusting or falling apart. It has done that well so far."
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
The Attwood Kayak Paddle is a high-performance paddle that is built to last and is also affordable. It is designed to provide excellent power and control while kayaking, making it ideal for both recreational and serious kayakers.
The paddle is made from durable materials and is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use, ensuring that it will last for many years. The Attwood Kayak Paddle is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality paddle that is affordable and built to last.
Things That Are Good To Know
The Attwood kayak paddle is perfect if you are looking for a high-performance kayak paddle. The spoon-faced blades give you the confidence to get out on the water. They are designed with efficiency, comfort, and durability in mind.
This Kayak Paddle features thick aluminum and rugged plastic construction that will stand up to even the roughest conditions. The drip rings prevent water from sliding off your paddle while paddling, which can reduce drag and increase your efficiency.
For easy storage, each blade folds down into place so that it takes up less room in your boat or vehicle when transporting them from one location to another.
Fun Story From A Product User
A delighted buyer said:
"I've used this product for a few years now with no issues. It's a great paddle for the money. I have had no problems with it at all. It feels sturdy, has a nice grip, and it is lightweight for carrying around on your kayak.
They have a very good grip on the shaft, it's comfortable in your hands and there is no slip when paddling. The paddle has a long blade, giving you plenty of power when paddling."
Best Choice For Fishing
Pelican Poseidon Angler Fishing Lightweight Kayak Paddle
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
The Pelican Poseidon Kayak Paddle is a versatile option for angler fishing. It is designed to be lightweight, making it easy to maneuver and control while on the water.
The built-in retrieval hooks allow for easy retrieval of fishing gear, making it a convenient choice for anglers. The paddle is made from fiberglass-reinforced material, which provides strength and durability.
The Baltic brown color adds a stylish touch to the design. The paddle measures 98.5 inches long, a standard size for kayak paddles.
The paddle is a great choice for angler fishing enthusiasts looking for a lightweight, durable paddle with convenient built-in retrieval hooks.
Things That Are Good To Know
This angler fishing kayak paddle has a two-piece anti-slip grip aluminum shaft and fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene blades. Paddling with offset blades will provide you more comfortable paddling experience than any other paddles with a straight blade because it gives you better control over your kayak.
The 2 additional flotation blocks on each side of the blade allow you to adjust the blade's width, improving their performance in different water conditions or conditions when you want to use them for touring or sculling stroke.
Fun Story From A Product User
A satisfied customer said:
"The paddle is lightweight, strong, and durable. It has a high-quality aluminum shaft that flexes just enough to absorb some of the shocks from wind gusts on the water but still provides a solid connection with the water.
I've taken this paddle out in rough conditions and had no trouble with it whatsoever - it held up perfectly."
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
The Overmont Kayak Paddle is a heavy-duty boating oar designed for use with inflatable kayaks. It features an aluminum alloy shaft that is both durable and lightweight, making it easy to maneuver while on the water.
The paddle also comes with a leash, which is a safety feature that attaches the paddle to the kayak, preventing it from getting lost if it accidentally becomes separated from the kayak.
However, this paddle is a solid choice for anyone looking for a durable and adjustable paddle for their inflatable kayak. Its aluminum alloy shaft and leash provide added safety and peace of mind while on the water.
Things That Are Good To Know
This kayak paddle has a hollow aluminum shaft tube and double serrated teeth edge design. It comes with three locking positions for your convenience and feather-shaped blades that are great for paddling around in calm water or lakes.
This is a heavy-duty paddle made for long-term use, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking on you after just one season of kayaking!
The paddle can be used by both men and women alike because it’s comfortable to hold onto while providing maximum efficiency during your paddling sessions.
Fun Story From A Product User
A delighted buyer wrote:
"I have had no issues with it, and the paddle is sturdy and durable. The blade is large enough to cover a lot of water but small enough that it does not take up too much space when stored in my garage.
The Kayak Paddle is also lightweight and easy to carry around. It comes with a strap so you can carry it on your back while hiking to your favorite kayaking locations."
Emma
Kayak Paddle FAQs
Kayaking is a great activity that everyone can enjoy. It doesn't matter if you're an experienced paddler or just starting out. The best kayak paddle for you is the one that suits your needs and budget.
Do you have questions about kayak paddles? We've answered some of the most common questions below to help you find the perfect kayak paddle for your needs.
What is the difference between a straight and a bent kayak paddle?
A straight kayak paddle has a straight shaft and symmetrical blades, while a bent kayak paddle has a curved or angled shaft and asymmetrical blades. Bent paddles are designed to be more efficient and reduce fatigue during prolonged use.
What is the best length for a kayak paddle?
The best length for a kayak paddle depends on a number of factors, including the paddler's height, the width of the kayak, and the type of paddling that will be done.
A general rule of thumb is to measure the distance from the ground to your chin and add about 10 inches to that measurement to find the ideal paddle length for your kayak. This will ensure that the paddle is roughly the same height as your head and that your arms are extended at a comfortable angle while you're paddling.
For touring and recreational kayaking, a paddle that is between 210-230cm is a common range. For whitewater and creek kayaking, a shorter paddle, around 190-200cm, is better for more maneuverability and control in tight spaces and rapids.
It's recommended that you test different paddles of different lengths to see which one feels most comfortable for you and to make sure the paddle you choose is the right length for your body and the kayaking you plan to do.
What are the different materials used to make kayak paddles?
Kayak paddles can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as weight, durability, and cost.
How do I choose the right size kayak paddle for me?
To choose the right size kayak paddle, you should consider your own physical characteristics, such as your height and the width of your kayak cockpit. Paddles come in different lengths and widths, and a properly sized paddle will feel comfortable and allow you to generate enough power to move your kayak effectively.
Can I adjust the feather angle of my kayak paddle?
Yes, most kayak paddles allow for feathering, which means adjusting the angle of the blades relative to each other to reduce wind resistance while paddling. This feature is usually adjustable, so you can set the feather angle to suit your preference and the conditions of the water.
What is the difference between a high-angle and a low-angle kayak paddle?
A high-angle kayak paddle is one where the blades are held at a high angle to the water, and a low-angle kayak paddle is one where the blades are held at a low angle to the water. High-angle paddling is more powerful, but less efficient, while low-angle paddling is less powerful but more efficient.
Can I use a canoe paddle on a kayak?
While you technically could use a canoe paddle on a kayak, it's not recommended as canoe paddles, and kayak paddles are designed differently.
Canoe paddles are typically longer and have wider blades than kayak paddles. Using a canoe paddle on a kayak would require you to use a different paddle technique, which is unsuitable for kayaking.
How should I care for my kayak paddle?
To care for your kayak paddle, you should rinse it off with fresh water after each use to remove any salt, sand, or debris. You should also store it in a dry, cool place when not in use to prevent warping or other damage.
Additionally, it's important to regularly check the paddle's blades and shaft for any cracks or other signs of damage.
What is a breakdown kayak paddle?
A breakdown kayak paddle is a paddle that can be taken apart into two or more pieces for easy transportation and storage. These paddles typically have a ferrule, or connector, that allows the blades to be detached from the shaft.
What is the difference between a symmetrical and an asymmetrical kayak paddle blade?
A symmetrical kayak paddle blade has the same shape on both sides, while an asymmetrical kayak paddle blade has different shapes on the two sides. Symmetrical blades are more versatile and easier to use, while asymmetrical blades are more efficient but may take some time.
What are the differences between a wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and carbon fiber paddle in terms of weight, durability and cost?
A wooden paddle is typically the heaviest of the four materials mentioned but is also the most affordable. Wooden paddles can be durable if well-maintained, but they can be prone to rot or warp over time if left in the water or exposed to the elements.
An aluminum paddle is much lighter than a wooden paddle, making it easier to use for extended periods of time. It is also more durable than wood and is resistant to rot and warping. However, aluminum paddles can be more expensive than wooden paddles.
A fiberglass shaft paddle is similar in weight and durability to an aluminum one and is more expensive than a wooden one. Fiberglass blades paddles can be slightly more flexible than aluminum paddles, making them more comfortable to use for extended periods, but they are also more fragile and prone to chipping or cracking.
A carbon fiber shaft is the lightest of the four materials and the most expensive one. These carbon fiber blades paddles are very durable and resistant to impact, making them a good choice for high-performance or competitive use. They also have a good stiffness-to-weight ratio and good energy transfer, which makes them ideal for long-distance paddling.
What Is The Best Kayak Paddle For You?
Having top-performing kayak paddle blades could mean the difference between you catching lots of fish and throwing your pole in because it's too tiring. There are many factors to consider when choosing the right paddle, but with our guide to help you narrow your choices, it should be much easier to get on the water this summer!
Ultimately, there is no such thing as a paddle that is 'the best'. It all comes down to your paddling style, what you're looking for in a paddle, and other personal preferences. However, we hope this list will serve as a jumping-off point to help you find the right paddle for your individual needs.
Emma
