Paddle length
- The wider your kayak, the longer your paddle needs to be
- Your height is also a factor, especially for a narrower boat; taller paddlers need longer paddles
Shaft material
- Lightweight materials improve performance but add to the price
- Carbon fiber is the lightest and most expensive compared with composite
Paddle style
- High-angle paddles have shorter, wider blades for faster, more precise strokes
- Low-angle options are common for recreational kayaking in flatwater
Shaft type
- A bent shaft or feathered blades can also improve a paddle's effectiveness.
- Two-piece or four-piece: A four-piece has shorter sections so it's more portable
Read full article: How to Choose Kayak Paddles