How to Choose Wood for Canoe Paddles

If you love exploring by canoe then you need the right paddles. Canoe paddles are built with different materials such as wood, fiberglass, aluminum or polyethylene. Wooden paddles are popular because they offer comfort, balance and performance. Many prefer wood over other materials because it retains warmth, making it comfortable even in colder temperatures. Selecting which type of wood for your paddles can be a daunting task as there are many options.

Instructions

    • 1

      Decide on the paddle qualities that you prefer, such as strength, durability, weight, price and shock resistance.

    • 2

      Select hardwoods such as ash and maple if you prefer heavier and stronger paddles that are useful for treading whitewater. Hardwood canoe paddles offer plenty of shock resistance. If you prefer lightweight paddles, avoid ash as it is roughly as dense as oak, which is heavy. Hardwoods are often more expensive than soft woods.

    • 3

      Select woods such as cherry and spruce if you need a paddle with medium strength and density. Spruce is light and strong; cherry is popular for its appearance. Cherry and spruce are not as durable and strong as ash, as it does not provide optimum shock resistance. Medium-weight paddles are great for calmer waters and recreational canoeing.

    • 4

      Select walnut paddles if you prefer an all-around paddle that is also attractive. These paddles can be a little heavy depending on its grain and density.

    • 5

      Compare the types of wood and choose one that will work best based on your needs and preferences.