Full Description
Choosing the Right KAYAK Paddle Depends Upon:
* The kayak you are using (length, width and weight)
* Your height and level of fitness
* Paddling conditions (typical size of lake or river, wind, current, etc.)
* The length of outing
* Other personal preferences
Style, Blade Shape and Surface Area
* High-angle paddlers keep the shaft more vertical during their stroke and typically use a shorter, wider blade and a shorter kayak paddle. This allows a more powerful, athletic stroke.
* A low-angle stroke keeps the kayak paddle relatively horizontal as you paddle. Paddlers that use this less fatiguing stroke often use a longer, thinner blade.
* Smaller paddlers and those that are not in speed choose blades with less surface area; those that want more power and desire a bigger "bite" on the water go for larger blades.
* All of Bending Branches blades use a dihedral shape, a shallow v-shaped cross section, which makes them pull smoothly through the water without flutter.
Blade Materials
Injection-molded blades provide the perfect blend of weight and durability; ideal for those that find themselves often pushing off rocks and gravel bars. Nylon or polypropylene blades, reinforced with glass are perfect for all conditions.
Traditionalists like the buoyancy and superior stiffness of wood blades, even though they are slightly heavier than plastic.
Shaft Material
Aluminum shafts are inexpensive strong and light, ideally suited to beginners. Upgrading to a fiberglass shaft will deliver an optimal feel of warmth on the hands and lightweight to improve your endurance. Bending Branches stiff efficient and responsive carbon shafts dramatically reduce weight, allowing for longer paddling with less fatigue.
