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How to Choose SUP Paddles
A good SUP paddle is one that is light enough to minimize fatigue while tough enough to handle rough conditions. Learn how to choose.
How to Choose SUP Paddles
A good SUP paddle is one that is light enough to minimize fatigue while tough enough to handle rough conditions. Learn how to choose.
How to Choose a Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP)
Are you looking to buy your first stand up paddleboard? Use this article to get started.
How to Choose Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) Accessories
Adding accessories to your stand up paddle board can make a day on the water more comfortable and fun. Learn what to look for.
How to Choose Kayak Paddles
Choose the right kayak paddle for your height, boat width and stroke style. Plus, get tips on materials and designs.
How to Choose Canoe Paddles
This overview of canoe paddles helps you choose the correct length and fit. Includes info on materials, blade shape, grips and shafts.
How to Paddle a Paddle Board: Basic Strokes
Using a SUP paddle properly makes a world of difference. This article covers how to size and hold a paddle, and 5 essential SUP strokes.
A lot of paddlers overlook the importance of a good paddle to propel their kayak. You'll spend many hours wielding your paddle on the water, so you'll want one that is both comfortable and efficient to use.
Your height and the width of your kayak will determine your paddle length. Taller paddlers and wider kayaks require longer paddles. Our article on choosing a kayak paddle includes a chart that's a good place to start.
Low- vs. high-angle paddling: Advanced paddlers sometimes prefer a faster high-angle stroke, which uses a slightly shorter paddle than recommended in this chart.
Generally, lighter blade and shaft materials boost performance—and the price you pay.
Most blades are asymmetrical to optimize the amount of blade surface in the water during each stroke. Most blades are also dihedral, meaning there's a rib in the center that channels waterflow for a smoother stroke. Inexpensive, symmetrical and/or rib-less blades are fine for recreational paddling.
Narrower blades cut down on weight and fatigue on long tours. Wider blades give you more power per stroke, which can be helpful in dealing with currents, winds and waves.
Most shafts are straight. With more expensive bent-shaft models, your hands are positioned at an optimum angle during each stroke to help reduce discomfort and fatigue on long tours.
Most shafts can be broken down into two or four pieces to make transport easier. They also allow you to rotate the blades to be "feathered" (offset) or "matched" (aligned). In feathered mode, most paddles also allow you to set them up for right- or left-hand control.
To learn more about how to use your paddle, read How to Paddle a Kayak: Basic Strokes.
In addition to your kayak paddle, consider these paddling essentials and kayak accessories.
More Reasons to Shop at REI
REI carries top brands like Werner and Aqua-Bound. We also have gear checklists and a library of kayaking articles to help you get started kayaking.