Kayak paddles are offered in different materials, sizes and shapes by different companies such as Werner, Bending Branches and Aqua-Bound. Here we reviewed a selection of top choices available in the market.
When deciding to buy a suitable paddle it is important to consider some important tips. For instance, although it is crucial to choose lightweight kayak paddles for easy paddling, but at the same time we shouldn’t underestimate the importance of the paddle strength. So note the right balance of these two factors based on the kayaking type: whitewater, touring or recreational.
Whitewater Paddles
– Werner Powerhouse Carbon ($299.95 – $399.95)
Responsiveness and amazing power needed by paddlers for river and creek running could be provided by these Werner Powerhouse kayak paddles.
Specs:
Average weight: Neutral Bent Shaft: 35 oz (992 g), Straight Shaft: 33 oz (936 g)
1-year manufacturer warranty
Handcrafted in Sultan, WA
30º offset
Continuous weave 1-piece carbon shaft
Performance Carbon blades
Slight dihedral
Carbon laminate construction
Full-size creeking/river running design
– Werner Odachi Bent Shaft Carbon ($449.95)
Those looking for a paddle for whitewater creek races demanding speed and going fast, should consider Werner Odachi. It’s a combination of powerful, stiff and lightweight foam core blades and carbon shafts and great durability provided by Werner. So when a race paddle is needed, there is no need to choose between speed and durability.
Features:
735 square centimeter of blade surface area
Extremely impact and abrasion resistant dynel edging
For powerful, stable in chaotic whitewater there is more blade dihedral
During a more vertical race stroke there is more surface area provided by symmetrical blade tip
Greater leverage provided by long blade length (49cm)
Please note that the paddles are offered in three sizes of 200cm, 197cm and 194cm.
– AT2 Carbon Flexi ($440)
As the finest kayak paddle for freestyle and play, the AT2 Flexi is based on the patented Full Control Grip foundation. To properly align the wrist and forearm bones of the paddlers, sports physiologists has designed it so that the shaft could be bent on 2 planes. And to fit the hands, the grip area is totally shaped ergonomically.
Lots of changes have happened in the kayaking world. Aqua-Bound used the help of Ken Whiting (world champion kayaker) and friends to design these kayak paddles so that it would cover all those changes. Lots of power and no flutter is the result of this great design.
Features:
5 oz.
Blade size: 18-in x 7.75-in
30 degree offset
1-piece construction
T-700 carbon shaft
Carbon-reinforced ABX blades
Wooden Paddles
– Bending Branches Navigator ($298.90)
These beautiful wooden kayak paddles by Bending Branches could decrease arm and shoulder fatigue because of roasted basswood and rich-looking red alder blades. Compared to composite paddles they could flex more.
Features:
Handcrafted in Osceola, Wisconsin USA
28 oz. average weight
Heavy duty drip rings
3-position ferrule
2-piece take-apart design
Rockguard tip protection
2 oz. fiberglass blade wrap
2 in x 20.1 in
Satin T-700 carbon shaft
– Bending Branches Navigator Plus ($323.90)
This model is very similar to the previous paddle model except for the extra feature of adjustable telescoping ferrule.
– Bending Branches Impression ($198.90)
For recreational day trips, the ‘Impression’ paddle, another outstanding product from this famous manufacturer, could be a great companion. The softness of wood and natural flex is easy on the hands and body.
Responsiveness and amazing power needed by paddlers for river and creek running could be provided by these Werner Powerhouse kayak paddles.
Features:
As the finest kayak paddle for freestyle and play, the AT2 Flexi is based on the patented Full Control Grip foundation. To properly align the wrist and forearm bones of the paddlers, sports physiologists has designed it so that the shaft could be bent on 2 planes. And to fit the hands, the grip area is totally shaped ergonomically.
Lots of changes have happened in the kayaking world. Aqua-Bound used the help of Ken Whiting (world champion kayaker) and friends to design these kayak paddles so that it would cover all those changes. Lots of power and no flutter is the result of this great design.
These beautiful wooden kayak paddles by Bending Branches could decrease arm and shoulder fatigue because of roasted basswood and rich-looking red alder blades. Compared to composite paddles they could flex more.
This model is very similar to the previous paddle model except for the extra feature of adjustable telescoping ferrule.
For recreational day trips, the ‘Impression’ paddle, another outstanding product from this famous manufacturer, could be a great companion. The softness of wood and natural flex is easy on the hands and body.
