5 Best Kayak Paddles Of 2022 – A Guide For Beginners

Kayaking is a fun experience. All of us can agree with that. Things would get even better if you already have an astute paddling skill, which is something that you should learn over time.

To optimize the way you maneuver your boat, I do recommend that you invest in the best kayak paddle. Albeit being a standard boating amenity, it is quite obvious that some people barely pay attention to the quality of their paddles. Of course, having an excellent kayak for recreation or fishing is necessary. But at the same time, ignoring the quality of your paddle should also be prioritized.

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You don't want a paddle that is too weak or too difficult to hold. Instead, you want something that synchronizes with your movements without being a burden. Well, if you are eager to know more about this, I do suggest that you take a look at the next section. In there, I have displayed some of the top-rated paddles that you can use for your kayak.

See them now!

Werner Camano Hooked Adjustable Fiberglass Kayak Fishing Paddle

Werner Camano is definitely one of the first choices that you should prefer. You see, this particular paddle is not only strong, but it is also lightweight and durable, too. If you hate paddles that flex too much when shoved against the water, then this paddle can help you solve that problem. With the Werner Camano, you can feel more relaxed when doing low-angle strokes. It is a perfect choice for anglers!

This paddle has a fiberglass blade. The said construction made the perfect balance between the value and swing weight of this item. Meanwhile, its shaft is tailored from high-grade carbon blend to optimize its durability. Take note that even if you hold this paddle all day, it won't hurt your hands.

I like the fact that Werner Camano uses midsize blades. Because of that, many paddlers can easily use this utility. It also enjoys the benefits of the dihedral shape blades. With that, you can enjoy stable and smooth paddling.

Pros

  • Fiberglass blade is rugged and reduces flex
  • A comfortable shaft that fits most paddlers
  • Enables stability when paddling
  • Two-piece construction but feels like a single piece
  • The shaft is made from a high-grade premium blend.

Cons

  • No known issues.
AQUA BOUND Sting Ray Carbon 2-Piece Kayak Paddle

There are a lot of things that you would want your paddle to have. Fortunately, the AQUA BOUND Sting Ray Carbon Kayak Paddle can give to you. This paddle has a lightweight construction so that it can work even with inexperienced paddlers. But of course, this didn't compromise the durability of the paddle. Regardless of the condition, this paddle with survive!

This paddle is also intuitive. It features the Posi-Lok ferrule technology. This proprietary system offers a two-button release so that you can adjust and detach the feather angle. Furthermore, this Posi-Lok capability is resistant to corrosion and rust. It also vanquishes the "play" that usually happens between the pieces of the paddle.

You also have to pay attention to the build of its shaft as well. Specifically, the latter is crafted from high-grade carbon that ensures minimal swing weight and flex. With these things, you can definitely experience a comfortable paddling in your kayak.

Pros

  • Guaranteed lightweight
  • Flex has been greatly reduced
  • Overall durability is impressive
  • Carbon fiber blades are guaranteed to be stiff and strong
  • Asymmetrical dihedral blade face works best for paddling at long angles.

Cons

  • The Posi-Lok of this paddle is not compatible with other Posi-Lok parts.
Bending Branches Whisper Aluminum 2Pc

The Bending Branches Whisper Aluminum Paddle is definitely a good choice for beginners. Not only it is affordable, but it is also highly functional. It is built to meet the standards without needing to rip your pocket off. However, unlike other paddles, this one features an aluminum shaft, which may not be as good as those carbon and fiberglass shafts.

Fortunately, the upgraded is visibly apparent on its blade. Specifically, the latter is made from injection-molded nylon and fiberglass, which makes it durable and lightweight. It can drastically reduce your fatigue while you are using it. The blade is also silent; it doesn't make too much noise upon entering or exiting the water. Meanwhile, the surface area of the blade has an even construction to minimize roll and maximize stability.

Pros

  • The composite ferrule is strong and light
  • Ergonomic and premium blade design
  • Feathering can be adjusted to 0 to 60 degrees
  • Features rubber drip rings for easier control
  • The blade can regulate wind resistance and flutter.

Cons

  • Not as comfortable as other paddles.
Werner Kalliste Bent Shaft Carbon 2 piece Paddle

If you are a low paddler and willing to pay a hefty price for your paddle, then the Werner Kalliste Paddle is your best choice. This one is built with exceptional ergonomics and high-quality materials. It can give you precision and buoyancy while you are stroking the waters. You can feel less stress either because this item is downright lightweight.

The continuous-wave carbon fiber shaft is definitely a cut from the rest. It gives an impressive level of strength-to-weight ratio to the paddle. When you stroke with this paddle, you will feel no drag or weight. The motion is so smooth that it can give you the most satisfaction that you need from a paddle. The shaft is also bent so that it can align to your wrist. Thus, it results in lesser strain in your hands.

Meanwhile, the blade features foam core/ carbon fiber construction. It resulted in a unique blade profile. The latter allows a smooth and quiet entry and exit in the water. It also improved the buoyancy of my strokes during the time I used it.

Pros

  • Lightweight and durable
  • Eliminates strain in the wrist
  • The shaft is comfortable to hold even on extended periods
  • Improves the buoyancy of your strokes
  • Comes with an adjustable ferrule system.

Cons

  • No known issues.
SeaSense X-1 Kayak Paddle, 84-Inch

The X-1 Kayak Paddle of SeaSense is another great paddle for those who are looking for a paddle that features comfort and affordability at the same time. It is made from a two-piece aluminum construction, which is relatively decent, in my opinion. It is lightweight and rugged. The shaft fits on my hand properly and did give enough level of control. That's a huge plus for me.

The drip rings of this paddle are all adjustable. They also have foam hand grips so that you will be able to use it properly. Meanwhile, the blades of this paddle are made from molded plastic. It provides decent durability and strength. However, I did notice that it tends to flex slightly. It is a minor gripe, so I didn't just bother it. Overall, I find this paddle great for recreational purposes. It can be great for low-angle strokes because of its buoyant nature.

Pros

  • Maximizes your control while paddling
  • Strong and durable construction
  • The shaft is comfortable to handle
  • The plastic paddle is durable
  • Aids in improving buoyancy in your strokes.

Cons

  • Not as light as other paddles.

How To Choose The Best Kayak Paddle?

How To Choose The Best Kayak Paddle?

I have said earlier that a paddle is the next important thing that you have to consider after a kayak. A wrong paddle can really impact the efficiency and fun of your kayaking. If you are doing technical sports like fishing and racing, an ergonomic paddle must come into play. Otherwise, you won't be able to maneuver and glide through the waters properly.

Good paddles can also optimize and refine your paddling techniques. Even if you are just still practicing, it really pays to have a high-quality paddle at your disposal.

But how can you find the right one for you? What are the considerations that you have to take into account whenever you get a new set of paddles for a kayak?

To veer through these dilemmas, you have to know first the fundamentals that revolve around a paddle. In this way, you will understand the essential dynamics that play an essential role in the performance of the kayak.

Paddle Length

Of course, this should be an obvious consideration. Not all paddles have the same length. Some are too short while others are too long. There are give and takes for each of these specifications. One way or another, they will be able to provide the benefit that you need.

Surprisingly, the process of finding the right paddle length is quite simple. If you have a wide boat, the paddle that you should get must be lengthy as well. Subsequently, narrow boats don't require the service of a long paddle.

Your height also matters here. Typically, it is recommended that tall paddlers have a better affinity toward long paddles while short people are better off with a short one.

Paddle manufacturers have different specifications and recommendations of the paddle length. However, you can guarantee that they combine and calculate the height of the paddler and the width of the boat before they make their respective sizing tables.

High-Angle Paddles and Low-Angle Paddles

You also have to pay attention to these two technical terms.

There are two paddling strokes that you are usually done when kayaking: the low-angle and high-angle strokes. The low-angle stroke is achieved by a paddle that has a minimal shaft tilt. When doing this stroke, the top of your hands remains under the shoulder level. Doing this kind of stroke is suitable for recreational purposes. It is not stressful and gives the paddler much time to relax in the water.

Meanwhile, a high-angle stroke is commonly done by paddlers who want speed and maneuverability. The paddle that is being used on this application is more tilted than a low-angle shaft. Moreover, the blade path is designed to be near to the boat. When doing high-angle strokes, precision and strength are two crucial aspects. Of course, this one will tire you out easily. Therefore, you need to train your body for such kind of stroking technique.

You will realize that all paddles are designed either for low-angle or high-angle strokes. Choose which paddle type can meet your requirements.

Here is a video that introduces the basics of low-angle and high-angle paddling:


Material

All paddles are made differently. Unless they are manufactured by the same manufacturer, such a statement should always be held true.

The material that has been used in the construction of the paddle affects its performance to a significant degree. In this aspect, what you want is for your paddle to be lightweight and durable at the same time. Fortunately, there are no compromises needed before these two attributes can be attained.

A lightweight paddle is essential because it minimizes your strength. Even the most trained kayakers will never want to wield heavy paddles. They can strain your body and make you lose your precision and control. When fatigue kicks in, paddling would become a difficult thing to do.

Blade

The blade of the paddle can be constructed through the use of different materials. Here are some of them:

  • Plastic/ Nylon - The combination of these two materials are quite popular in the market today. It is durable, but it doesn't mean that it can't get damaged. Over time, it will degrade. Plastic tends to flex, too, which reduces your efficiency.
  • Fiberglass - Fiberglass is in the middle-value category. For regular kayakers, such material should be pursued. Fiberglass can provide both durability and performance due to its rigid and lightweight nature. Of course, fiberglass can also crack, but it less likely compared to plastic.
  • Carbon Fiber - If you have the purchasing capacity, I do suggest that you get a paddle with a carbon fiber blade. It is very stiff and light, which enables you to optimize each of your strokes.
Shaft

When it comes to the shaft, I can say that plastic is quite uncommon. In the industry today, aluminum shaft is the most preferred because it is durable. Furthermore, it can be subjected to repairs, too, which is a pretty good thing. Aluminum tends to get extremely warm and cold because it is a conductor. Therefore, you might need to wear gloves before you hold it. If you can't handle the temperature, then the best thing that you can do is stow the boat momentarily and rest.

Meanwhile, both fiberglass and carbon shafts are excellent options. They are lightweight, strong, and downright durable. If you can pair these materials with those hybrid blades will allow you to have a high-quality paddle for kayaking.

Check out this video that shows a paddle shaft should be held properly:

Bottom Line

The best kayak paddle is an amenity that should be present in your kayaking checklist. Your boat will not move on its own. You have to row it with a paddle so that you can traverse your desired routes and destinations. Unless your boat is compatible with engines and trolling motors, paddles are its own means for mobility.

The options that I have listed here are some of the most preferred choices for kayak paddles. They will certainly elevate your paddling technique without exhausting your body! If you want to make your independent choice, the guide here can help you out.

Did you learn from this guide? If you have questions regarding kayaking and other related stuff, just drop them in the comment section below!

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