7 best kayak paddles

Kayak paddles are essential tools for kayaking, a popular water sport and outdoor recreational activity. These paddles are specifically designed for propelling and steering a kayak through the water. Here's what you need to know about kayak paddles:

Materials: Kayak paddles are typically constructed from various materials, including:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and affordable, but less durable than other materials.
- Fiberglass: Offers a good balance of weight, durability, and affordability.
- Carbon Fiber: Known for its lightweight and strength, often used in high-performance paddles.
- Wood: Traditional and aesthetically pleasing, but heavier and requires maintenance.
Blade Design: The blades of kayak paddles come in different shapes and sizes, influencing performance:
- High-Angle Blades: These are shorter and wider, providing better power for aggressive paddling and quick maneuvers.
- Low-Angle Blades: Longer and narrower, suited for more relaxed, efficient strokes over longer distances.
Paddle Length: Choosing the right paddle length is crucial for comfortable and effective kayaking. It depends on factors like your height, kayak width, and paddling style. Generally, taller kayakers and wider kayaks require longer paddles.
Shaft Types: Paddle shafts can be straight or bent (also known as ergonomic). Ergonomic shafts are designed to reduce strain on wrists and provide a more comfortable grip.
Feathering: Some kayak paddles allow you to adjust the feather angle, which is the angle between the blades.Feathering can reduce wind resistance during paddling, but it's a matter of personal preference.
Paddle Splits: Kayak paddles come in two main types:
- One-Piece: A single, solid paddle that cannot be taken apart. They are generally more robust but less convenient for transport and storage.
- Two-Piece (or Take-Apart): These can be separated into two pieces for easier transport and storage. They are a popular choice for recreational kayakers.
Grips and Handles: Paddle grips can vary in design and material. Look for comfortable and ergonomic grips that allow for a secure hold and efficient control.
Weight: Lightweight paddles are favored by kayakers for extended trips or races, as they reduce fatigue. However, the material and design of the paddle also influence weight.
Budget and Quality: The price of kayak paddles can vary widely based on the materials and features. Higher-quality paddles may cost more but can offer better performance and durability.
Maintenance: Proper care is essential to prolong the life of your kayak paddle. Rinse it with fresh water after each use, store it in a cool, dry place, and periodically inspect for any signs of damage.

Choosing the right kayak paddle is essential for an enjoyable kayaking experience. It's important to consider your skill level, paddling style, and the type of kayaking you plan to do when selecting a paddle. Trying out different paddles and seeking advice from experienced kayakers can help you find the best fit for your needs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best kayak paddles on the market

How to Paddle a Kayak: The 90 Minute Guide to Master Kayaking and Learn to Paddle like a Pro

Based on 91 reviews Check latest price

Paddle Your Own Canoe: One Man's Fundamentals for Delicious Living

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

attwood 11768-2 Asymmetrical 2-Piece Heavy-Duty Kayak Paddle with Comfort Grips 7-Feet

Attwood

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Get the most from your paddling energy with the asymmetrical spoon-blade design; it increases stroke efficiency and reduces blade flutter. 7-foot paddle disassembles for convenience. Attwood Corporation has been an award-winning leader in engineering, testing, and manufacturing the highest quality marine products for over 100 years. We deliver safe and reliable lighting, fuel systems, water systems, seating & pedestals, swim ladders, custom upholstery, and general marine accessories that are easy to install and meet regulatory compliance.

Thick aluminum and rugged plastic construction for durable performance
Two-piece breakdown design is ideal for both storage and transport
Drip rings for added comfort; they prevent water from sliding onto your grip
Asymmetrical spoon-blades increase your stroke efficiency while reducing blade flutter in the water
Attwood products are both compatible and reliable, engineered and built with a never-fail attitude

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this really take a month to ship or is that an error
Answer:	I ordered them around winter time. They came in a few days. But with what’s going on right now. It may take longer. A lot of things are taking longer. Hope that helped.
Question:	Where is this item manufactured
Answer:	Taiwan
Question:	I am 5ft 7in would these be good paddles for me
Answer:	Outsanding paddles. light and they have held up well stored outside all winter
Question:	what is the actual paddle weight? I'm assuming the shipping weight (w/packaging) is more than the actual product weight
Answer:	I am going to say knock a pound off if the box package. It’s in pieces when you get it you will have to put together.

Werner Camano Premium Fiberglass Kayak Paddle

Werner

Based on 114 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Get on top of fish faster with the Werner Camano Hooked 2-Piece Straight Shaft Paddle. Werner's award-winning paddle design is available here with a fishing-specific design that includes a grey hooked pattern on the fiberglass blades. The carbon blend shaft reduces the swing weight and is stiff enough to deliver a powerful and efficient stroke. The Smartview adjustable ferrule makes feathering possible to align the blades with your body's natural rotations. The simple and straightforward design of the Smartview ferrule not only makes adjustments easy, but is long-lasting and gives this two-piece paddle the smooth feel of a one-piece. The mid-size blade is ideal for most paddlers, while the low-profile blade shape makes for a leisurely and comfortable paddle when the fishing's slow and the sights are nice.

Shaft Material: carbon blend
Blade Material: fiberglass
Overall Length: 220 cm - 260 cm
Blade Length: 52 cm
Blade Width: 16.5 cm

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the redfish golden a tan-ish color with a pattern? That’s what I know it as but it shows no picture of it
Answer:	Yes, both ends are open.
Question:	What is the paddle weight in ounces? (not the shipping weight
Answer:	I Purchased the stools end of 2019 the stickers were never a problem for us they all peeled off nicely
Question:	What size should I get im
Answer:	That's the weight for all the stools. Each one is pretty lightweight but sturdy. Happy I bought them.
Question:	Is the citrus color on one side and blue with white star on other side or other end or no blue with whit star at all
Answer:	Thank you for reaching out to Atlantic Inc. The height for the Atlantic Dining stools is 18". I hope this helps with your purchase. Should you have any further questions please contact our Customer Service at (800) 747-2660. Thank you, Kat, Atlantic Inc.

Overmont Kayak Paddle 90.5in/230cm Heavy Duty Aluminum Alloy Lightweight Boating Oar for Inflatable Kayaks with Paddle Leash

Overmont

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Two Piece Heavy-duty Construction for Easy Storage
Feather-shaped Blades and Double Serrated Teeth Edge Design
Three Locking Positions
Hollow Aluminum Shaft Tube can Well Keep the Paddle Float on the Water
Package includes a Paddle Leash

User questions & answers

Question:	Is there a right size for me? I am a 5’8” woman
Answer:	You could but we’ve found the air valve keeps popping open when the tube bounces to hard. The heavier the kid the more often it happens. I don’t know if it’s a design feature to prevent it from blowing out the main body of the tube or just an issue with the valve? The tube has held up longer than I expected. It’s slides really fast on the snow.
Question:	Would this be okay for an inflatable Paddleboard? Can those teeth puncture my board
Answer:	We used it about 10 times, using it for a few hours at a time, without any air leaks. No frequent inflation is required. It comes with patch kit if needed, but we haven’t had a hole yet though. Everyone loved this huge geavy duty snow sleds!
Question:	Will this float if dropped in the water? Also, is the orange color true orange or more yellow
Answer:	I think mine came as well in a bag, not box.
Question:	How long is the paddle? it says it's 90.5 inches but some are saying it's shorter
Answer:	It is not difficult to fill it. I used a air pump that has a conversion adaptor on it. But you can also use bike pump to fill the sledding tubes. the 3 in 1 inflatable valve can quick inflation in seconds. Easy to complete in 1 minute！！！

Product features

Two piece construction for easy storage

Integral moulding shafts

3 Angles adjustable of blades

OCEANBROAD Kayak Paddle 230CM/90.5 Inches Alloy Shaft Kayaking Boating Oar with Paddle Leash, 1 Paddle

OCEANBROAD

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The OCEANBROAD alloy kayak paddle is made of high-quality aluminum alloy shaft (1.1mm shell thickness) and fiberglass reinforced PP blade. It’s with popular medium length of 230cm (90.5 inches). The oar is a perfect choice for kayaking with touring or recreational purposes. It’s detachable at 2 sections, very convenient to carry it around and put it away. It’s an ideal kayak paddle with moderate length for you and your family.

DURABLE AND AFFORDABLE: This kayak paddle is with high-quality aluminum alloy shaft (1.1mm shell thickness) and fiberglass reinforced PP blade. The material combination ensures a stiff and durable kayak paddle at a better price. It’s a perfect choice for starters and intermediate kayakers.
USER FRIENDLY: The oar shaft is designed with a shrinking PE tube cover. It provides better grip for your hands to prevent blistering. Especially, your hands won’t suffer from the cold feeling from the alloy when you kayak in winter weather.
POPULAR LENGTH AT 230CM: Not too short, not too long, the oar is 230cm (90.5 inches) at length. It’s an ideal kayak paddle with moderate length for you and your family. It’s also detachable at 2 sections, so you might carry it around and put it away easily.
FREE LEASH/3 ANGLES/ DRIP RINGS: All OCEANBROAD kayak paddles come with a free bungee paddle leash. It helps secure your paddle to your kayak, especially when you want to lay down the oars, stop by a little bit to enjoy great views around. The paddle is with 3 locking positions for different kayaking angle preference. The drip rings at two ends help stop water flowing from the blades. So, the shaft and your hands won’t get wet easily.
WORRY FREE PURCHASE: OCEANBROAD offers complete customer satisfaction of replacement or refund for any quality issues.

User questions & answers

Question:	How minty paddles do you get
Answer:	It will work with an 8 foot kayak. Lots of variables to consider. I am 5’2” and have a 10 foot kayak. I have this paddle now and it works fine. I prefer this size paddle or longer (I used a 96” paddle for a few years). I would rather not lean at all to paddle. I prefer to sit back the whole time. My kiddo has an 8’ kayak and she was 4’10” using this size paddle and preferred it over the 80 something inch she had before.
Question:	does this paddle float
Answer:	It's oceanbroad, not oceanbored. We manufacture in China.
Question:	Is this the correct size paddle to use with a 8 ft kayak
Answer:	Looks like a synthetic mesh. It is very comfortable and attractive.
Question:	Who makes the brand oceanbored I can't find it anywhere on the internet
Answer:	Yes, they could be used as normal shoes. But they do look like golf shoes. They are very comfortable and do not have golf spikes.

Poseidon Paddle 89 in - Aluminum Shaft with Reinforced Fiberglass Blades - Lightweight, Adjustable Kayaks Paddles

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Two sturdy pieces of aluminum construction. Impact resistant fiberglass reinforced polypropylene feathered blade design for great durability
Adjustable drip rings to help keep hands dry for a better grip
Enforced push-button connection with 0 or 65˚ angle adjustment
The perfect fit! Our 89 inch (226cm) long paddle is not too short and not too long. Perfect for your trips on the water!
Ovalization: The shaft goes from a rounded shape to a slightly oval shape (called indexing) which serves as a reference to where you should be placing your right hand

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this float
Answer:	We have had these for a short time - so far, yes. Being adjustable is a nice feature. There is a flap in the center that locks / clamps the paddle at the desired length. The paddle does not slip when locked in place.
Question:	Will this work for 5’3” person and 32” wide kayak
Answer:	This paddle has a matte grainy texture like a chalkboard and it has stayed that way for about 18 trip now.
Question:	Are the paddles curved
Answer:	2 pieces- nicely packaged. Must add that I love the "rule" on the paddle shaft.
Question:	what is the difference between this and the older pelican poseidon paddle found on amazon
Answer:	It will breakdown into two pieces.