How to Size Whitewater Canoe Paddles

Canoeing can be an excellent way to get exercise while enjoying the beauty that nature has to offer. If you're thinking of canoeing in whitewater rivers then it is imperative that you have the right size paddle. If the paddle is too long or too short you'll be fighting to stay comfortably afloat.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Act like you are inside a canoe. Kneeling on the ground, raise your seat so that you are about 6 inches off the floor. This is meant to emulate the height above the water you'll actually be at while you are canoeing.

    • 2

      Measure from the tip of your nose down to the floor. Using your measuring tape, find this measurement in inches.

    • 3

      Add 20 inches to that total. Experts suggest adding the distance from your nose to the floor plus 20 inches to find the proper length.

    • 4

      Test out several paddles to determine if the measurement you got feels like the right fit. Hold the paddle out to the side while still in the kneeling position. If the paddle feels too short or too long then adjust up or down an inch until you find a comfortable whitewater paddle length.