How to Paddle a Kayak
There’s more to learning how to paddle a kayak than trying out a couple strokes – in fact, before you ever hit the water, you’ll need to know how to pick a kayak paddle. The ideal paddle will fit you and your specific needs, and getting it right is critical. In a kayak, you’re the motor, and the proper paddle and technique will transfer your energy into motion as efficiently as possible.
HOW TO CHOOSE A KAYAK PADDLE
You wouldn’t play soccer in Air Jordans, right? Think of your paddle selection the same way. There are all kinds of kayaking disciplines that call for specific paddles, but we’ll focus on the two most popular.
Recreation kayaks (including most fishing kayaks) tend to be very wide. They require a longer paddle with a broader reach, so you don’t have to lean over the side to put a blade in the water. Recreation kayak paddles are good all-purpose options that are tough and dependable. Touring kayaks are also popular, and these long, narrow kayaks are made to cover lots of ground. Touring kayak paddles, like the Carlisle Magic Plus, are lighter for all-day use, and they have a specific blade shape that’s designed for a more efficient, vertical paddle stroke.
HOW TO SIZE A KAYAK PADDLE
Kayak paddle length primarily affects power. A longer paddle gives you more leverage, but it’s like using a harder gear on a bicycle and it can quickly wear you out. As a general rule, paddlers between 5’ and 5’10” will want a paddle that’s 220-230cm. Paddlers above 5’10” should opt for paddles that are 230-240cm, and very tall paddlers or those in kayaks wider than 30” might consider a paddle that’s even longer.
HOW TO HOLD A KAYAK PADDLE
The best way to determine how to hold a kayak paddle is by putting the paddle on top of your head. With the paddle in this position, your elbows should be at 90-degree angles as pictured below. This technique ensures the proper hand spacing for comfort and power.
HOW TO PADDLE A KAYAK
After doing your research and making your selection, it’s time to learn how to use that new paddle!
The forward stroke is the most fundamental of three main kayak paddling techniques you’ll want to master to become a proficient kayaker. To perform a proper forward stroke, put the paddle blade in the water near your toes and pull it along the side of the kayak, removing it when it reaches your hips. Then repeat on the other side with the other blade. The closer your blades are to the side of the kayak, the straighter your craft will travel through the water. Don’t get discouraged if you find it hard to paddle in a straight line right away. It takes practice!
Now that you have a better idea of how to choose a kayak paddle AND how to use a kayak paddle, head on over to our paddle page. Filter through options based on the type of kayaking you’re doing, and you’ll quickly zero in on the right kayak paddle for you. Once you’ve got your paddle, hit the water and practice your strokes! You can view kayak paddling techniques in action at www.kayakpaddling.net. Kayaking takes practice, but once you get the hang of it you’ll find it’s an incredibly rewarding way to experience the outdoors.