How to Pick the Correct Canoe Paddle Length

People who canoe for recreational fun or for sport need a paddle with the correct length. This improves performance, as a person rows, and makes rowing easier and more enjoyable. Many people choose a paddle by height and end up uncomfortable when rowing. Choosing the correct length paddle is easier if a person simulates being in a canoe. Try following these simple tips for choosing the appropriate paddle length at home, in the store or in the canoe at the lake.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

  1. At Home

    • 1

      Kneel down on the floor, so your bottom is about six inches off the ground. This simulates how high you sit in a canoe.

    • 2

      Measure from the bottom of your nose to the floor. Write down the measurement.

    • 3

      Measure the length of the blade part of the paddle. Start the measurement at the bottom part of the blade up to the portion of the blade where it starts getting narrow for the handle. Call a sports supply store for their measurements or check a sports supply catalog for the specifications on their paddles if a paddle isn't easily accessible. Write the measurement under the measurement from your nose to the floor.

    • 4

      Add the two measurements together. The total length of the two measurements is the length of the paddle you need.

    Renting a Canoe at the Lake

    • 5

      Sit in the canoe while it is in the water. Take a measurement from the bottom of your nose to the water.

    • 6

      Measure the length of the blade part of an available paddle. Start the measurement at bottom part of the blade, and go up to the point on the blade just before it narrows for the handle.

    • 7

      Add the measurement of your nose to water level to the blade length. The total of the two measurements is the paddle length you need. Choose a paddle that falls closest to your desired measurement.

    In the Store

    • 8

      Kneel down on the floor, so your bottom is about six inches off the ground. This simulates how high you sit in a canoe.

    • 9

      Take a paddle, and turn it so the blade faces upwards. Next, place the grip part of the paddle on the floor at a diagonal angle, so you see where the blade end of the paddle comes to the bottom of your nose.

    • 10

      Make sure the blade edge of the paddle comes right under the bottom of your nose. If the blade end goes past your nose, the paddle is too long. If the blade end doesn't reach your nose, it is too short. The correct paddle length fits directly under the nose.