How to Decide Your Kayak Paddle Length

Choosing the correct kayak paddle length is important to maintain your comfort and ability to paddle your kayak strongly and efficiently. Deciding which length of paddle you require depends primarily on your height and also the width of kayak you will be using. For narrow, touring kayaks, a shorter paddle will be more suitable, but for wider, recreational kayaks, you will need a longer paddle. Paddles are measured in centimeters.

Things You'll Need

  • Room or backyard
  • Kayak
  • Measuring tape 300 cm long (9.8 feet)
  • Adjustable paddle
  • Pond or lake
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the width of your kayak at its widest point in inches.

    • 2

      Measure your own height in feet and inches. You may need another person to help you do this.

    • 3

      Using your adjustable paddle, adjust the length so that it corresponds to your kayak width and height. Some general guidelines: a 6-foot person in a kayak 24 inches wide might find a 230cm paddle comfortable; someone under 5 feet 8 in this same kayak might do better with 220 cm or shorter. There are guidelines for this relationship but no hard and fast rules. Additionally, a wider kayak will require a slightly longer paddle, whereas a narrower kayak will require a shorter paddle.

    • 4

      Test the paddle length by paddling on the pond or lake. If you feel uncomfortable or you are having to lean from side to side to paddle easily, adjust the paddle accordingly.