5 Best Canoe Paddles and Guide to Paddle Size
The Editors
Finding the right paddle for canoeing can greatly enhance your experience on the water. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine the best one for you. To ensure a comfortable and efficient paddling experience, it is important to measure yourself and find a paddle that fits your specific needs. In this article, we've done the research and have found the top 5 best canoe paddle options on the market. We'll also provide a step-by-step guide on how to measure yourself to get the right paddle size, so you can be confident in your choice and enjoy your time on the water.
Step-by-step guide to get the right paddle size
Getting the right paddle size for canoeing is important for maximizing your comfort and efficiency on the water. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you measure yourself and find the right paddle size:
- Stand up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides and measure your height from the floor to the top of your head.
- Measure the distance from your wrist to the top of your shoulder. This measurement will give you an idea of your torso length.
- Take note of your arm span, which is the distance from the tip of your middle finger on one hand to the other.
- Consider the type of canoeing you'll be doing. If you plan on doing long-distance paddling, a longer paddle might be more suitable, while a shorter paddle will be easier to maneuver in tighter spaces.
- Use the information you've gathered to determine the right paddle length. A general rule of thumb is to subtract your height from your arm span to get the ideal paddle length. For example, if your height is 6 feet (72 inches) and your arm span is 80 inches, the ideal paddle length for you would be 80 - 72 = 8 feet (96 inches).
- Finally, keep in mind that paddle manufacturers may have different size recommendations, so make sure to double-check their guidelines before making a purchase.
By following these steps, you'll be able to find the right paddle size that fits your specific needs and will give you the best paddling experience possible.
After checking out the canoe paddles below, if you're an outdoorsman looking for other canoe gear we have you covered with the best canoe racks - steps to transport your canoe, best outrigger canoe paddles, best canoe and kayak storage rack, and best life jackets and life vests.
Best Wood Straight Shaft Canoe Paddle
The BENDING BRANCHES Arrow Wood Canoe Paddle is a great option for canoe enthusiasts looking for a classic and elegant paddle for use on rivers or lakes. The wood construction gives the paddle a traditional look and feel, and it is surprisingly lightweight and durable. The blade is also specially designed to provide a smooth and efficient stroke, making it easy to maneuver your canoe in any water conditions.
One of the standout features of this paddle is the comfortable grip. The handle is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hand, reducing hand fatigue and making it easier to paddle for extended periods of time. The paddle is also well-balanced, making it easy to control and maneuver.
Overall, the BENDING BRANCHES Arrow Wood Canoe Paddle is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality, stylish, and functional paddle for use on rivers or lakes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced canoe enthusiast, this paddle is sure to meet your needs and provide a great paddling experience.
Best Overal Bent Shaft Paddle
The Bending Branches Black Pearl II Carbon Bent Shaft Canee Paddle is a top-of-the-line option for those looking for a high-performance canoe paddle. This paddle is constructed with a carbon fiber shaft, which provides a lightweight and durable option that is sure to withstand the rigors of frequent use.
One of the standout features of this paddle is its bent shaft design, which provides a more comfortable grip and reduces hand fatigue during extended paddling sessions. The blade is also designed to provide a smooth and efficient stroke, making it easy to maneuver your canoe in any water conditions.
In terms of design, the Black Pearl II is both stylish and functional, with a sleek black finish and high-quality construction that will last for years to come. Additionally, the paddle is adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit for your specific needs and body type.
Overall, the Bending Branches Black Pearl II Carbon Bent Shaft Canoe Paddle is a top-performing paddle that is perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and durable option for their next canoeing adventure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced canoe enthusiast, this paddle is sure to meet your needs and provide a great paddling experience.
Most Affordable
The Attwood 11764-1 Ergonomic Aluminum Canoe Paddle is a great option for canoe enthusiasts looking for a durable and lightweight paddle. Constructed with high-quality aluminum, this paddle is both strong and lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver in the water.
One of the standout features of this paddle is its ergonomic design, which provides a comfortable grip and reduces hand fatigue during extended paddling sessions. The blade is also designed to provide a smooth and efficient stroke, making it easy to control your canoe in any water conditions.
In terms of design, the Attwood 11764-1 is both stylish and functional, with a sleek black finish and high-quality construction that will last for years to come. The paddle is also adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit for your specific needs and body type.
Overall, the Attwood 11764-1 Ergonomic Aluminum Canoe Paddle is a great option for anyone looking for a durable, lightweight, and comfortable paddle for their next canoeing adventure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced canoe enthusiast, this paddle is sure to meet your needs and provide a great paddling experience.
Best 2-Piece Canoe Paddle
The BENDING BRANCHES Impression Solo Wood 2-Piece Canoe Paddle is a great option for canoe enthusiasts looking for a classic and elegant paddle that is both functional and stylish. Constructed with high-quality wood, this paddle has a traditional look and feel that is sure to impress.
One of the standout features of this paddle is its 2-piece design, which makes it easy to transport and store when not in use. The blade is also designed to provide a smooth and efficient stroke, making it easy to control your canoe in any water conditions.
In terms of design, the Impression Solo Wood Paddle is both attractive and functional, with a natural wood finish and high-quality construction that will last for years to come. The paddle is also adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit for your specific needs and body type.
Overall, the BENDING BRANCHES Impression Solo Wood 2-Piece Canoe Paddle is a great option for anyone looking for a classic and elegant paddle for their next canoeing adventure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced canoe enthusiast, this paddle is sure to meet your needs and provide a great paddling experience.
Best Value Canoe Paddle
The CROOKED CREEK 4-foot Wooden Boat Paddle is a great option for anyone looking for a durable and lightweight paddle for their next canoeing adventure. This paddle is constructed with multi-ply laminated wood, which provides added strength and durability, making it a great option for frequent use.
One of the standout features of this paddle is its lightweight design, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver in the water. The blade is also designed to provide a smooth and efficient stroke, making it easy to control your canoe in any water conditions.
In terms of design, the CROOKED CREEK paddle is both stylish and functional, with a waterproof finish and high-quality construction that will last for years to come. The paddle is also adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit for your specific needs and body type.
Overall, the CROOKED CREEK 4-foot Wooden Boat Paddle is a great option for anyone looking for a durable, lightweight, and stylish paddle for their next canoeing adventure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced canoe enthusiast, this paddle is sure to meet your needs and provide a great paddling experience.
In conclusion, finding the right paddle size for canoeing is an important step in ensuring a comfortable and efficient paddling experience. By measuring yourself and considering the type of canoeing you'll be doing, you can determine the ideal paddle length for your needs. And with the help of our product review of the 5 best canoe paddles, you'll be able to make an informed decision and choose the best paddle for you. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced canoe enthusiast, having the right paddle size will make all the difference on your next adventure on the water.