How To Choose Kayak Paddle Size

By contrast a lower seat means you need to get a slightly longer paddle in order to dip its blades into the water.

How to choose kayak paddle size. If you use the high angle stroke more often you. They are usually sold in 10-centimeter increments starting at 180 cm and going up to 250 cm. Take the width of your kayak on the top horizontal axis and then take your height on the left vertical axis where they meet is your paddle size.

If youre shorter or taller you may want to go up or down a little. Just bear in mind that paddle length is measured in centimeters rather than inches. The average kayak paddle length is 230 cm which is the recommended size for low angle averaged height kayakers.

How to Size a Kayak Paddle. Simply put the wider the kayak paddled the longer the paddle needed. Some places even hold demo days where you can test out different kayaks and paddles.

Taking your torso height into account as well can help reaffirm what the height charts suggest for a proper paddle length. Lightweight materials improve performance but add to a paddles price. Extra-wide flared canoes and those with high seats require a slightly longer paddle so that you can easily reach the water with the blade and avoid hitting the shaft or your knuckles on the gunwale.

What features should I look for in a paddle. The paddle will need to be long enough to clear the sides of your kayak when you are paddling. Each manufacturer recommends slightly different lengths but the chart below should give you a pretty good idea where you stand.

Whether you are a beginner intermediate or an advanced paddler the kayak paddle length chart above will help you choose the right paddle length for you. A high seat rises about 18 cm 71 in from the kayak. That is 240 centimeters wide.