What Paddles Are for a Kayak?

Kayaking is an outdoor activity that combines relaxation, adventure and a bit of exercise. Kayaks were originally constructed by Arctic and sub-Arctic tribes, made with wood and animal skins. These vessels were used for hunting, fishing and transport. With many different kayak designs came different variations in kayak paddles, all used for specific paddling conditions. As of 2011, a variety of kayak paddles still are used.

  1. Flat Paddles

    • The flat paddle is most often used by beginning kayakers due to its simplicity and ease of motion in almost any hand position. The flat paddle consists of two symmetrical flat blades fixed on both ends of the shaft. These paddles are most effective because they cause less drag and hand stress.

    Feathered Paddles

    • Feathered paddles are generally used by more experienced paddlers with greater wrist strength. These paddles consist of opposing blades turned at an angle to each another. This feature allows for a more efficient stroke in high wind. The windward paddle is flat, allowing wind to pass across its plane with ease, while the opposing blade strokes the water. The rotating wrist stroke is a technique used along with this paddle, and takes some time to master.

    Winged Paddles

    • Winged paddles are shaped somewhat like an airplane wing. These paddles -- when used correctly -- travel through the water and create a lifting effect. This reduces strain from pulling the paddle out of the water and can increase paddling efficiency and speed. These paddles are generally used by the most experienced kayakers. Winged paddles also require the knowledge and practice of a diagonal stroke technique, which is hard to master for beginners because it feels unnatural.

    Curved Paddles

    • Several types of curves paddles are used. Curved paddle blades are often the first step up from traditional flat blades. Once a kayaker gains more experience and wants more power, a curved paddle blade can provide this because the curved paddle adds more grip when in the water. These include dihedral and spoon blade paddles. Dihedral blade paddles, when viewed from above, angle toward the water. Spoon blades angle away from the water. Some curved paddles can incorporate both flat and spooned, or flat and dihedral cross sections.