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How To Choose A Paddle For Your Inflatable Kayak
Time: 2018-09-07 14:14
Choose the suitable paddle length for your inflatable kayak according to your height, length of your kayak and the type of paddling.
shorter paddle for high-angle paddlingBuying a paddle for an inflatable kayak is a little different than buying a paddle for a hard-shell kayak because an inflatable kayak is usually wider than a regular kayak. So you must consider this wider width of an inflatable kayak other than your height and the type of paddling when choose a right paddle for your inflatable kayak.

There are several factors to consider when choosing a paddle, keep reading this article if you are wondering how to choose a right paddle.   

- Height of the paddler
- Width of your kayak
- Type of paddling

Choosing the right length of paddle for your inflatable kayak.

1. Height of the paddler

Choosing a paddle length is usually according to your personal preference, but the height of a paddler is also should be considered. The common paddle length for inflatable kayaks usually ranges from 220cm to 240cm. And a general guideline from manufacturer is that: 5’0 – 5’6” tall should choose 220cm length, 5’2” – 6’2” tall should choose 230cm length, 5’6” and taller should choose 240cm length. The most common length for an average sized paddler using a relaxed stroke is 230cm. If you feel the 220cm paddle is too short for you, then you can try the 230cm or 240cm and find an ideal length for your paddle.

2. Width of your kayak

Another import factor to consider when buying a paddle is the width of your inflatable kayak. If your inflatable kayak is wider, a longer paddle can be easier to use for relaxed low angle paddling stroke. The width of inflatable kayaks usually ranges from 28 inches to 40 inches, and the inflatable kayaks that are 32 inches and under are good with a 220cm or a 230cm paddle. This is suitable for average sized paddlers only. If you are taller, the 230cm or 240cm paddles will work better for you. Even if you are shorter, but if your inflatable kayak is 33 inches and wider, the 230cm or 240cm paddle should be your best choice.

longer paddle for low-angle paddling3. Type of paddling

This factor is about how you are going to use your inflatable kayak, i.e. are you going to whitewater kayaking or touring? In general, the shorter paddle is easier to control and maneuver quickly, so it's recommended to be used for a more aggressive stroke and a faster cadence like whitewater kayaking. And the longer paddler is more suitable for a relaxed stroke, slower cadence and longer distances, so it's recommended to be used for flat open water touring.

This is because the longer paddle makes it easier to do an efficient low-angle paddling, and the low-angle paddling is often suitable for the slower and more relaxed strokes. The blade stays more horizontal to the water, so the longer paddle is good for longer and relaxed kayaking trips. And the shorter paddle is more suitable for high-angle paddling, which is used for a more aggressive and faster paddling style. If you want to maneuver and speed up quickly on the whitewater, the shorter paddle is your ideal choice.

After reading this article, you may find it not very difficult to choose a right paddle. Even if you haven't used one before, you can always choose the 230cm because it works for most people. Fortunately, you will get a common paddle when buying your inflatable kayak, so you can start with it. When you paddle more often and want to improve your stroke, you will know how to upgrade to a better paddle. You will find buying inflatable kayaks and other inflatable boats from Sunjoy Inflatables is a great experience because we will help you choose the most suitable equipment by considering all the factors for you. Any questions please contact sunjoy!