Selecting the perfect kayak paddle is the the most important decision you will ever make as a kayaker. Because paddles are like the engine of your kayak. Choosing the proper kayak paddle will help you use less energy and spend more time on the water.
Factors to be considered before selecting a kayak paddle:
- Paddle Length(River Running/Playboating)
- Paddle Weight
- Shape of Blades(Low Angle/High Angle)
- Blade Materials(Fiberglass/Carbon Fiber/Nylon/Aluminium/Plastic)
- Blade Design(Feathered/Unfeathered)
- Shaft(Straight Shaft/Bent shaft)
- Grip
Review of 4 excellent kayak paddles:
SeaSense X-1 Kayak Paddle
This kayak paddle is currently the best selling kayak in the market. It has two piece aluminum construction with a total length of 84 inch. The paddle comes with adjustable drip rings and ergonomic foam hand grips that ensure comfortable paddling for the anglers.There are adjustable Drip Guards to help the kayakers keep dry. The black molded plastic blades of the paddles are curved in a different way than any other paddle which is very efficient.
Pros:
- Great paddle at an excellent price.
- Two-piece Aluminum construction.
- Very lightweight and balanced.
Cons:
- Not found any.
Shoreline Marine Kayak Paddle
This 96 inch kayak paddle features corrosion resistant aluminum shaft and comfort grip handles. It has contour molded blades for efficiency and durability. This paddle has Three position system that helps you to customize the paddle to fit your style.The contour molded blade propels you through the water with ease. There are Drip guards to keep you dry.The paddles can be disassembled into 2 pieces to make transportation easier.
Pros:
- This is a very long paddle (96 inch).
- It becomes 2 pieces by a push of button.
- It features three position system.
- There are foam grips for comfort.
Cons:
- Locking button sometime gets stuck.
Seattle Sports Sea-Whisper Carbon Paddle
Beauty, strength, design, and affordability, Seattle Sports new Sea-Whisper Paddles have it all. It comes with a strong, lightweight two-piece carbon shaft. It features a quick adjust cam-lock with marked ferrule. For easy and precise adjustment, there is also an indexed shaft. The integrated leash loop are also there for extra safety. There is molded catch point that allows you to hold your position at the dock, grab dock or fishing lines and retrieve overboard items.
Pros:
- Drip rings glow in the dark adding nighttime visibility.
- Exclusive dorsal blade technology.
- Sturdy and light carbon fiber shaft.
- Integrated louvers and quick -adjust ferrule.
Cons:
- The paddle is a little heavier.
Intex Dual Purpose Kayak Paddle/Boat Oars
This is a great combination 96” paddle that converts to two 48” boat oars. It is built with aluminum shaft. There are ribbed blades and oar retainer/drip rings for extra strength. Its large black blades are very stylish and sturdy. You can twist the angle of the two blades with the help of connector, which is an amazing feature.
- Comes at an unbelievable price.
- Convertible into two 48-inch oars.
- Ribbed blades and oar retainer/drip rings for added strength.
- Large,strong and stylish black blades with subtle curve.
Cons:
- Not found any.