Buy kayak paddle for kayaking, canoeing and SUP
A kayak paddle is a double-blade paddle with a blade at both ends of the shaft, so you paddle alternately left and right without switching sides. This distinguishes it fundamentally from a SUP paddle, which has only one blade. The double-blade technique gives you a more even stroke rhythm, less splash water in the boat and better progress on longer trips. Brands like Aquatone, JOBE and EvoNautic offer kayak paddles from aluminium to fibreglass and carbon, each suited to a different level and use.
Kayak paddle material comparison
The material of shaft and blade determines weight, price and performance. The table shows the key figures at a glance.
| Type | Weight (approx.) | Use | Recommended length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium | approx. 1,000-1,200 g | Recreational, day trips, beginners | 220-230 cm (wide kayak) |
| Fibreglass composite | approx. 750-900 g | Recreational to active, intermediate | 215-225 cm (medium kayak) |
| Carbon | approx. 600-750 g | Touring, sea kayak, frequent use | 210-220 cm (narrow kayak) |
Rule of thumb for length: the wider your kayak and the taller you are, the longer the paddle. For a kayak wider than 65 cm, you typically choose a paddle of 225 to 230 cm. Adjustable models offer more flexibility and are handy when multiple people share a paddle.
Kayak paddle or SUP paddle?
If you also have a SUP board, you'll find the difference explained in the SUP paddle collection. A SUP paddle has one blade and is used upright with a T-grip at the top; a kayak paddle has two blades and a straight shaft. Want to paddle on an inflatable kayak? All models in our range fit the inflatable kayaks we carry.
Frequently asked questions about kayak paddles
What is the difference between a kayak paddle and a SUP paddle?
A kayak paddle has blades at both ends of the shaft. You sit low in the kayak and paddle alternately left and right. A SUP paddle has only one blade at one end and a T-grip at the top; you stand upright on the board and push the blade backwards through the water. The posture, stroke technique and power transfer are therefore fundamentally different. You never use a kayak paddle as a SUP paddle and vice versa: the length, blade angle and grip are not interchangeable. If you practise both sports, you need both types of paddle.
What kayak paddle length do I need?
The right length depends on three factors: your height, the width of your kayak and your paddling technique. As a basic rule: for a kayak wider than 65 cm and a height up to 1.75 m, choose 220 to 225 cm. For a narrow sea or touring kayak and a height above 1.80 m, 215 to 220 cm is better. Adjustable paddles like the EvoNautic series let you adjust the length in steps, which is practical for shared use or when you're unsure. Fibreglass and carbon paddles are often available in fixed lengths because they are manufactured to specification.
Aluminium or carbon: what should I choose for recreational kayaking?
For recreational kayaking, a day trip on a lake or a holiday outing, aluminium is a fine choice. The weight is slightly higher, but during shorter sessions of one to three hours you barely notice. Aluminium is more robust under careless use and considerably cheaper than carbon. Carbon wins for longer trips, sea kayaking and frequent use: the weight difference of 300 to 500 grams per paddle means less fatigue in the wrist and shoulder after thousands of strokes per day. Anyone who paddles weekly and regularly makes trips of more than two hours will earn the investment in a fibreglass or carbon paddle back in comfort.
How do I set the feather angle on my kayak paddle?
Feathering is the rotational offset between the left and right blade of the paddle. At 0 degrees both blades face the same direction; at 45 or 60 degrees they are rotated relative to each other. A feather angle of 45 to 60 degrees reduces air resistance on the upper blade during the swing, which is an advantage in strong wind. Beginners are best starting at 0 degrees feather so they can learn the stroke technique without wrist rotation. Adjustable paddles like the EvoNautic and the JOBE four-piece models have a twist-lock or click-lock mechanism on the joint ring. Twist the paddle loose, set the desired angle on the degree scale and click it into place.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
