How do I know what size kayak paddle I need?

Measure Your Body Height Then, compare it to the width of your kayak and find the correct corresponding measurement. If you are 5 feet 5 inches or shorter and your kayak is… 23 inches wide or smaller: Try a paddle that is 210 centimeters long. 24 to 32 inches wide: Try a paddle that is 220 centimeters long.

What does it mean to feather a kayak paddle?

Feathering a kayak paddle simply means you adjust the ferrule on the shaft so the blades are at an angle to each other rather than straight (as in the photo above). (The ferrule is where the two pieces of the kayak paddle come together in the middle of the shaft.)

Do kayak paddles make a difference?

Next to the kayak itself, your paddle has the biggest impact on your performance on the water. Even a short tour involves thousands of strokes, so a proper paddle can make all the difference. Shaft choice: A bent shaft or feathered blades can also improve a paddle’s effectiveness.

Should I feather my kayak paddle?

Feathering is most advantageous when paddling into high winds. The higher the angle of your blade, the less resistance you will encounter. Alternatively, an un-feathered paddle can be advantageous when the wind is at your back, working as a small sail each time the blade is raised into the air.

Should I angle my kayak paddle?

Which kayak paddle blade angle is best? If you prefer a short paddle for maximum power, use a feather angle between 30 and 45 degrees. If you would rather use a long paddle allowing your hands to be held low, an unfeathered paddle will keep your wrists straight. That’s the answer.

Does kayak paddle length matter?

If you fall between two sizes, it’s generally better to go shorter. Either size would probably work, but you’ll save a few ounces with a shorter paddle. If you’re proportioned with a shorter torso, though, then the added reach will come in handy and you should go with the longer paddle.

Is 240 cm paddle too long?

Some suggest there is no reason to reach out beyond 220 cm, while others prefer the laid-back long stroke of a paddle at least 240 cm. Some still prefer to paddle this way as it provides speed and power in each purchase of the blade with water.

How much should I spend on a kayak paddle?

Kayak paddles can range in price from $40 to $500. The material of the blade is usually the main factor in the cost of a paddle though the shaft material can also affect price. The cheapest paddles available have an aluminum shaft and fiberglass blades and costs around $40.

What kind of kayak is the Braca IV?

The Braca IV has been one of BRAČA-SPORT’s most popular paddles for all types of paddling: One of the most popular sprinter kayak paddles, used in Olympic Sprints, World Marathon Championships, and Surfski events. The IV is a classic carbon wing paddle design, the original teardrop design!

Where can I buy Braca paddles in USA?

Fastpaddler is the Braca paddle online shop for USA Paddlers and Teams! We are the exclusive BRAČA-SPORT ® USA factory-direct importer of Braca racing and touring paddles. Fastpaddler works directly with BRAČA-SPORT ® to supply USA athletes. Our in-stock inventory covers all popular models of performance paddles and accessories.

Are there any carbon fiber kayak paddles available?

Paddles from Braca-sport are all available as 100% carbon fiber kayak paddles with some 60% versions also. The only company engineering paddles for every sport using our own proprietary carbon fiber and state-of-the-art construction! BRAČA-SPORT®’s mission is to design, develop, and produce the best performing paddle for every paddler.

Which is the best stroke to paddle a kayak?

Paddling’s most fundamental stroke, the one you will spend most of your time doing, involves more than arm power. It’s important to engage your stronger torso muscles (core and back) to do most of the work. Double-check how you’re holding the paddle.