Everything You Need To Know About Kayak Paddles

[@krakhare7111]

I absorb every bit of wisdom you guys provide in your videos! I can relate to the paddle sizing “guides”. When I started out with my fishing kayak, an outfitter had me using a 250cm. I found that length to be too long for my high angle preference. Now I gravitate between 230-240 for my boat, but as you said, kayak width, paddling stroke, paddler composition, etc all play a factor in dialing-in that sweet spot of good form. Keep that wisdom coming!!!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks for watching!

[@rowalong]

Thankyou for such a good video. As a newbie to all this, your video is spot on in helping me understand what stuff means!

[@garrygadberry2205]

I just want to say that when I first started kayaking the first video I watched is your video on paddling 101. Your videos are so informational and after I watch one I have more knowledge….Thank you for all you do for this sport.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Our pleasure. Thanks for watching Garry

[@garrygadberry2205]

I just want to also add…Just a little fyi…I love your videos where you do reviews on different kayaks on the market and give you professional opinion on the pros and cons of those kayaks. Those videos are very helpful to those wanting to get into the sport.

[@noyopacific]

Regarding the ferrule on two - piece aluminum shaft paddles. (At 1:42 ) The male ferrule insert on aluminum shaft paddles also reduces corrosion that can cause the joint to fuse together. If you have aluminum shaft paddles you can prevent this by taking them apart whenever they aren't being used. This is a good practice with any two-piece paddle. Thanks for the video !

[@jwfisherman6486]

Once again you have done a very succinct and extremely educational video on the art of kayaking and choosing a paddle. This should be mandatory watching for anybody looking to buy their first paddle or changing kayak styles.

[@chrishitchings8712]

I used an old crappy one piece paddle for about a year when I started the switched to a full carbon paddle. The difference is just incredible, slips in and out of the water almost silently! It's not even a top of the range, £300 , but makes so much difference.

[@amberbarron4151]

Just started paddling this year and me and my 9yr old are learning so much from you. I really appreciate your videos since we got into this on our own. We would be so lost without your channel. Thank you! Now since it’s getting colder, we are trying to decide what type of wetsuit we need?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

If you’re flat water paddling I recommend a 3 mm farmer John. Then get an ice splash top from Level Six or NRS. Wear a quick dry shirt under the top. Even a fleece if it’s really cold. Gloves or Pogies help keep the hands warm. Thanks for watching!

[@TGB-ln5wq]

This dude is a great teacher and was super helpful. Thanks for the video.

[@newfoundlanderonthego8729]

Man,this is probably one of the best videos i have seen ,well explained,a wealth of information. Your passion shows through. First time viewer.

[@elvislee7686]

This is by far the best well thought out video on the subject of paddle and paddling. Super happy I bought the Werner Cyprus full carbon paddle as my first paddle.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Cyprus is nice!

[@boatman222345]

Great video and it's always a pleasure to watch someone like you paddling…there are so many videos online of paddlers with terrible form…great to see someone with great form!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks for the kind words. It’s far from perfect, but it gets me where I want to go efficiently.

[@gregvoci3874]

Newbie here who recently bought an Eddyline Caribbean 12FS that's 30 inches wide. The outfitter urged me to buy a Werner Camano that's 230 CM. It's a very light and stiff paddle. Another great informative view.

[@markmoreno7295]

Thank you for mentioning my favorite paddle, the Greenland style. Also for mentioning that a wooden Euro style is available. I like to feel a more planted blade especially in a braced position.

[@Clambelly]

Incredible depth of knowledge that you share very succinctly, directly and without much fanfare.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I appreciate that!

[@justindavis1546]

You have taught me so much useful information without any sales hype. My go to Kayak channel.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks Justin.

[@PhamVans]

Just ordered my first kayak, these are great tips! Will definitely watch this again and take some notes!

[@rickquist3992]

In one of his older videos Dan said something along the lines of, "You're dating your boat; you're married to your paddle." I use that one a lot when I'm speaking to new folks. Happy Paddling!

[@bayside6207]

Literally 5 mins ago.eBay just purchased Bending Branches Angler Pro.for $200 brand new too, These run close to $400 out the door. I am new to kayaking & subscribing to your channel so I can learn how to do it like the pros do & Not look so dumb/ inexperienced when I first go out, So Thanks.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Sweet Deal!

[@brianschlottman9681]

Good talk about paddles. I like my carbon Lendal, also bending branches woody, beaver tail type. Your kayak dealer has good counsel on paddle length.

[@rickquist3992]

Guys like me are oddballs. Flatwater river/lake long distance dudes on a ski. Full carbon small-mid wing neutral feather forever. Great for going forward when you're half asleep. It almost paddles itself. Everything else? Not so much! It refuses to scull in my hands. Mad respect for Brother Dan!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks Rick. Wings are awesome.

[@rickquist3992]

@@HeadwatersKayak Roger that. They're awesome for going straight ahead. Ha!

[@HeidiC51]

As always I learned something new! Thank you for yet another amazing video! I was hoping/searching for a lighter paddle, but then you explained more on the one I have. From the beginning, I’ve been a high angle paddler. I have no idea why, I just started doing it that way even though I’m just touring/recreational. I have the Bending Branches Navigator Plus. Started out with it after watching some of your videos early on. I had my paddle before my kayak 🤣 I love the versatility of the length. Being 5’ with a CK1 & looking to add a Pungo 125, I love I won’t need 2 paddles. One thing I did notice with it is that after awhile it comes unlocked from where I have it feathered. I’m probably doing something wrong there that I’ll have to fix.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I have that same problem with the twist feral. I prefer the snap button or a quick release adjustment.

[@heathen_7]

Ahhhh this would’ve saved me a few hundred and some frustrating paddles lol. Really well done video! It’s going to help a ton of people out in the future

[@captaindancypants5405]

Really expert advice. Excellent substance and detail with minimal wasted time. No aggregating repeating as in so many other videos

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Twolfe_barber]

Great video and very educational. You should do a video about fishing kayak paddles and paddling techniques🙏🏼

[@paulchevrier9961]

Great video, lots of information and very well explained. And great that you included the Greenland Paddle. I have been using the Greenland Paddle for about 5 years now, love it.

[@bopsmom22]

Another great video Daniel! Sharing this to the local FB pages👏

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks for helping spread the word. I hope it helps lots of new paddlers out.

[@matthewm5218]

I went from the field and stream chute to the bending branches last winter and I love it!The weight difference insane. I love the wood look!! I can paddle in the Delaware river in choppy waters and glide through the waters on my lifetime tamarack. Hell, I can paddle all day then come home with energy and cut the grass!!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

A nice paddle can make a world of difference doesn’t it.

[@newfoundlanderonthego8729]

Been just reading the comments,I see i am not the only one that thinks this video and obviously you by the comments, are great .

[@johnandcathylynch7597]

Thanks, you guys are really helping me with getting into this sport

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Great to hear!

[@stephenparis495]

I'm new to kayaking so thanks for the info!

[@shaggydudegaming]

I literally take notes while I watch your videos

[@HeadwatersKayak]

😂

[@LetsGoPaddling]

Best video on paddles, period. 😃 Very well laid out and I hope many people will benefit from it. 👍 Also, thank you so much Dan for mentioning wing paddles. They don't get too much attention. I use a wing paddle, feathered at 60deg, it's a beast.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I use a stellar wing paddle pretty regularly at this point as well. A totally different ballgame!

[@LetsGoPaddling]

@@HeadwatersKayak Nice one. Epic Small Mid Wing here 😉

[@braaap690]

Looks like you have a Hurricane Skimmer 116 in the background! Just added the Newport Vessel NK180 to mine. Can’t wait to test it out!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I bet that thing screams! Video please.

[@djslewis]

Just bought me a Navigator after watching this video. It's amazing!!! A bit more prone to fluttering, but I think its all just part of getting used to the difference in style of paddle.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

You’ll get use to it. It’s a great paddle congrats!

[@giggabruh5626]

recently found kayaking and I have to say that your channel helped a ton. A+ videos dude!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@randyharrington2653]

Thank you so much for your help. You are my go to for all of my kayak questions. Love your videos. You explain things so well!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks Randy. Glad you found the video helpful.

[@KayakingBubblehead]

Great video again, I started with a bending branches angler classic but switched to another brand, then this spring I finally got to put my hands on the BB Navigator and I ordered one and I can't imagine using another paddle. Thank you very much for all of the great information and teaching videos you've made, please keep them coming.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

The navigator is a great paddle! Thanks for the kind words man. Many more videos to come!

[@gracebiggs9310]

I'm so happy you made this video, I learned a lot like always. I'm just disappointed that I learned this lesson the hard way earlier this year preparing for an endurance race 😂💸

[@HeadwatersKayak]

We’ve all done it.

[@benschepps6494]

Dan, please get Bending Branches to make your Arbuckle-special Angler Navigator and Angler Navigator Plus available for purchase! Their standard lengths are too long, and they won't make custom orders anymore! I ordered one 205-220cm (and I love it) just before they stopped taking custom orders and now I need a backup 😂!

[@LuddnJung]

I have the Werner Kaliste bent shaft and the Lettmann Multi Wave bent shaft. Both are greate paddles…

[@bunsen27]

Very good info and very consistent with what you said way back in 2017 in the paddle discussion video with @OutWestwithChris. That's actually how I found your channel! I've been enjoying your newer content while trying to sequentially watch all the older stuff too. So much great info throughout so many videos! It's really helped me when selecting a PFD, paddle, and my 1st kayak. I'm now looking at an Eddyline Equinox or Sitka for 2023 all thanks to you and @happypaddlin. I just need to find a good East Coast Eddyline dealer.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks for following along. We never thought anyone would watch 30 minutes of me talking about paddles back in the day but turns out we were wrong.

[@NickSchade]

A bugaboo of mine is calling the air pulled down with a paddle "cavitation". The more appropriate word is "ventilation". Cavitation is caused when your propellor or paddle is so powerful it creates such a low pressure that the water actually boils. Ventilation is when you pull air down from the surface due to poor technique. Do a quick google on "Cavitation vs Ventilation" to learn more about the differences. The benefit of using the appropriate terminology, is the word helps you understand how to fix the problem. You want to avoid making a vent to the surface by careful placement of your catch.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Fair enough thanks.

[@NickSchade]

@@HeadwatersKayak You are certainly not the only one using this terminology. You are in good company.

[@randypollock9478]

Appreciate the great videos. Class leading a s best in the industry. Keep them coming!

[@Markpatrickrich]

What are your thoughts on a paddle leash I noticed you guys don’t really use them thank you for all your tips and information and your positive energy

[@SRKarting]

Wow. What’s an informative video, thanks very much, I’m new to the sport so this is an absolute gem.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Stoked you found it helpful!

[@todosan375]

Fantastic video. I needed this.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Glad it was helpful!

[@wingmanhoy3999]

Fantastic valuable inspiring information, thank you for what you do, all the very best.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

🙏

[@LookB4ULeap]

Awesome video Dan man. Thanks for the knowledge. Appreciate you and Headwaters staff. I have to get in one more adventure before end of season. Looking at doing Brows Canyon with River Runners in Buena Vista, Co on 8/19

[@RavingNut]

I'm just on 181cm and ended up getting a 2.5 metres carbon shaft and fibreglass blades bit of a highbrid falling in between a high and low stroke. I could adjust it out however I found in my current kayak it's working nicely (just a little past a full blade submerge), no need to extend it at my current seating hight. The only thing I need to really improve is my grip, as I start to get blisters after 90min of non-stop movement. But that will just take time to improve.

[@thomaswalsh7154]

After changing to wing I can never go back to euro blades, they just feel so inefficient through the water. One hint on paddle length, with adjustable length shafts it is useful to change the length while on the water, make it slightly longer for a more powerful stroke, or shorten it slightly for a less tiring stroke. So I have my paddle longer when going downwind / current, but shorter when battling against it. Think of it as changing gears.

[@larrymoss9954]

Thanks for the tip.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Semi agree with you. For forward efficient paddling the wing is impossible to beat. Was out touring with a friend the other night and traded my wing for his euro blade and felt like I had a ton of lead added to my boat. The flip side to that coin is if you’re trying to maneuver around, follow the shoreline, or paddle challenging water the wind paddle is a lot less efficient. Different strokes for different folks.

[@thomaswalsh7154]

@@HeadwatersKayak wings are the first choice when surfski paddling and that is pretty challenging conditions, although I accept that wing is mostly used just for power and brace strokes. With most of the steering done by edging or the rudder. But I have to agree that euro blades are still king for proper whitewater, and for boats with poor edging and no rudder.

[@PhotoStrider]

GREAT video….thanks for taking the time to make it 😃🇨🇦

[@kbosmack]

Outstanding video!! Well done 👏👏. I just started paddling this year (fishing ski) and the distributor set me up with a wing paddle. It would be great if you did a part 2 video and covered the Greenland & wing paddles.

[@owenphillips9166]

Imo, wing paddles go fantastically well with fishing skis. The key is to make sure you don't get a wing blade with too much surface area, especially if you plan on trolling all day. Length of shaft you can play around with. I pulled too many big lures for too long last Autumn, so this year I had to drop from 212 to 210 to help my body. I'm still happy with my 165mm x 500mm blades, but maybe I'll reduce them as I get nearer 60. The other thing is having 0 degrees feather. I switched to this gradually, about 4 years ago - one of the best moves I've ever made. Good luck and happy fishing!

[@kbosmack]

@@owenphillips9166 Thanks a bunch for the reply. Your input leads me to think Stealth put the right paddle in my hands. BTW...I'm getting nearer to 60 too! #55 is hitting me next week. I've got my paddle set to 210 w/ 0 feather. I started with 0 feather and it just felt right. Blades are 150mm x 480mm so a little less power on the pull. One thing that I wonder about...I get soaked when I paddle hard. Water from the scoop rains down on my head when I transition from release to catch. I've got a fairly vertical stroke but keep thinking I might be doing something wrong (couple of my videos show me paddling). Is this typical for wing paddles.

[@owenphillips9166]

@@kbosmack No worries! 56 is coming my way on the 25th - so not much between us! You shouldn't be getting a free shower with every stroke! If you're getting wet from your paddle, then maybe you're keeping it in the water too long and lifting water? By the time the blade reaches your hip it's time to release it. Have you watched any of @Oscar Chalupsky 's videos? He explains it well. (also Ivan Lawler's series on paddling is excellent)

[@anthonyb1426]

Bought my first kayak (used Wilderness system tsunami 145). I need help choosing between these two paddles, because I found deals on both. Manta Ray Hybrid with Posi-lok vs Manta Ray Carbon w/snap button. Both are priced at around $150. I have gone kayaking, several dozen times, and am more of a power paddler.

[@raymondswanson2237]

Found your channel after I bought my Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2. Made me feel good to hear your review on it. Love it and want to last a long time. Really enjoyed this one on paddles and learned a bunch. Is there a video already or can you consider storage options for long term? I will be ready to store mine for a few months about late November or early December and want to keep it in the best shape possible. Thanks again!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I just did a video on our second channel. It's called Headwaters Express and its just quick videos I make on my phone. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5SzgKJpds-AnZI

[@thomasp8160]

👁‍🗨the oldschool schlegel tech 3 is still the king of the paddle.💪🤟😊

[@jimfromoregonusa9899]

Very informative and well done...thanks!

[@Joe-xq1nt]

Fantastic informative video.. Thank you! For me personally the issue has been finding what works without spending tons of money buying diff paddles. Presently I use the aqua bound sting ray hybrid . Every time I see someone with a diff paddle I like to ask if I can give it a try. There might be places you can try before you buy but none I’ve come across in my travels so far.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

We are one of the few demo centers in California that allows you to try high on paddles. Very rare that shop do demos.

[@srappywoo]

Very helpful, thank you

[@milanbastaa8622]

Excellent video. I would like to ask for help in determining the length of a kayak paddle. The kayak is 90 cm wide Aquamarine steam, my height is 185. Thanks in advance.

[@Brian-yx5vo]

Thank you for your video. Are Greenland paddles good for beginners? I’m looking to do some lake fishing and river camping.Thanks

[@robertprice2911]

Such a great video, thanks.

[@TrigonometryforStudentsa-vt1bg]

Good, informative video.

[@CHUY-DRZ400s]

Great information!! Thank you

[@tomfink5009]

Great/Excellent overall video on kayak paddles. Could use more coverage on feathering and the video missed the blades when feathering. After many years of paddling I am still confused with feathering, although I have not studied it in any detail.

[@user-qc9nu3vc9o]

The two types of paddles that i wanted to know more about were the two that you didn't cover (Greenland and Winged).

[@faithcobb2795]

At the very end

[@samuelskinny]

For Florida what ive seen a lot of good things in carbon shaft plastic blade paddles. While yes carbon, wood and fiber glass blades are great for efficiency, the plastic is good for using the blade as a tool. Down here we do a lot of pushing off logs, rocks and general hard abuse. So far the paddle that everyone is going to for general Florida use is the backwater assassin. It's a high angle carbon shaft, plastic blade that takes some serious abuse. Great for the springs and hard abuse. I'd love for yall to take a look at it, would appreciate your thoughts

[@cheapfix]

Thanks Dan for the awesome vid...I was so intrigued by your Navigator paddle, I went ahead and ordered a new one for myself...its beautiful craftsmanship with the wood blade...I look forward to giving it a try with my Jackson Cuda LT. I see that its 32oz in weight...compared to my Canon carbon paddle at 22oz, is it going to be a big adjustment??

[@HeadwatersKayak]

It’s my favorite paddle for sure. The wood is heavier, but the positive buoyancy more than makes up for it. Can’t wait to hear what you think about it.

[@fly_yaker]

Excellent video! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@mikemcgeehan4321]

Great information.

[@HunterPlays11]

I can tell a difference in my bending branches paddle compared to the hornet brand other people in my family have mine is a hair heavier but I get their paddle stick underwater sometimes because it doesn’t float as well as mine

[@mackjenkins7721]

Thanks you Dan for this video. My lil brother just went kayaking & kayak camping for the first time over the labor day weekend with me. He fell in love with kayaking and he wants to buy a kayak now. This video will help him pick up the right Paddle for the kayak. #1. More things Dan! I really like the sandals you was wearing in the video. Do you know what kind of sandals you were wearing in the video? I really really would like to get a Pair of these because I have to kayak barefooted 👣 & I am looking for a pair of sandals to wear for kayaking. I like how they have a back strap that goes around the Back of the foot for good fitting. I would appreciate if you can let me know so I can order a pair.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

They are Astral PFD’s love them.

[@mackjenkins7721]

@@HeadwatersKayak oh OK the sandals are Astral PFD. I didn't know they made sandals too. Thanks you so much man. I will check them out.

[@MrMeasureTwice]

Hey Dan! I have been bingeing your videos, learning a lot. So much so, I bought my first kayak today in Lodi! Aventura 125. QUESTION: what shop did you record this video? Thanks again - keep it coming!!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Lodi Paddlesports. They took over my old shop.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Congrats on the new kayak!

[@MrMeasureTwice]

@@HeadwatersKayak Thanks! It's all your 'fault' - haha, just kidding, actually, you made it easy for me to decide on my first kayak. 👍👍😁🛶

[@normd5776]

Dan, I'd like your opinion on the ABAHUB kayak paddles that are sold on Amazon. They are 90.5" with Carbon Fiber shaft and plastic blades that do seem quite stiff. I'd like to know how you would and wouldn't use it. I bought a couple for my wife and I, but we are complete newbies to kayaking. Any knowledge that I may have before getting on the water comes from your videos.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I’ve never heard of them and that’s usually not a great sign.

[@EyeToob]

The best take away advice I'm taking from the video is : Don't let money (the price) get in the way of buying the perfect paddle. Since I'm going to be repeating strokes thousands upon thousands upon thousands of times, then I should get a paddle that will help my body instead of hurt it.

[@Jrc4120]

Dan, great info. What is the most durable material for blades out of carbon reinforced nylon, carbon, or fiberglass? Seems like fiberglass would possibly be less durable?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Fiberglass is the most durable actually. Just heavier than carbon.

[@Brian-yx5vo]

Thank you sooooo much!!!

[@bradleysonthemove5790]

Dan, thanks for the informative video. I use a 2-piece aluminum shaft that swells in hotter temps or direct sunlight, making it difficult to separate. Does carbon fiber behave the same?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

No.

[@HBCruzing]

Great video and I like that hat

[@zero-ol2nt]

Do you still prefer that Werner shuna carbon over the aqua bound whiskey?

[@GregoryHansen-p3d]

I recently tried kayaking for the first time. I rented a kayak at the lake thinking this should be easy. It was a Lifetime brand kayak, but I don't remember the paddle brand. I mentioned it was my first time to three different people I dealt with, hoping to get any beginner advice. I figured I would get a little wet, but no, I got a LOT wet. I assume those rings at the ends of the paddles are there to help stop the water from running the length of the paddle and getting into the kayak, but the one on my right kept sliding down to my hand and seemed pretty useless. I noticed in one of your videos that there weren't any rings. I don't mind getting a little wet, but I was drenched. What can you tell me about keeping a little dryer?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

It’s 100% technique. If you rotate from your core and keep your arms in front of you, you won’t lift the paddle over your lap and dump water on your legs. No matter what you will get a little wet. That’s why I prefer a sit inside that I can put a skirt on.

[@Buddy-Aibo]

Don't really see anything about float bags. You have a video just on that? My wife and I stick to flat water but we are using sit insides. We just have our pumps on hand, to date no capsizes (yet) but just curious if I should be looking into float bags. Also we are paddling the lifetime charger 100's 10 footers, I'm also aware I would need a bulk head fitting for the bags but I could easily make one.

[@windsup2day]

Dan - Did you say your favorite paddle was a Lendall Cadence? I think you said you have two favorites, but I can't remember which ones they are. Best - Marian

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I currently am loving the Cadence, but I’ve also been testing a brand new paddle from Aquabound all summer and I find I’m using that more and more. Should be released soon!

[@windsup2day]

​@HeadwatersKayak Ironically, I spoke to the Aquabpund Rep for New England not too long ago, and he said some exciting stuff was coming out soon. You'll have to let us know when you get the ok to discuss.

[@shannonfbc1]

I have the yellow aqua bound what would be a good upgrade paddling a pungo 120 and I'm 5'4. Paddling on a very calm lake... I paddle high until I'm tired then well lol

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Aquabound Tango 220 would be my suggestion.

[@pauldavis-oj4ev]

What's the physical difference between a low angle and high angle paddle???

[@redtobertshateshandles]

You didn't explain which end is which. I thought that the pointy end would enter the water first. Also it has more angle to allow for the angle of the entry.

[@stevewages]

Hi, great info, but I think you meant 25 ounces, not 25 grams for the lightest paddle (5:45). 25 grams is the weight of a salad fork! 🙂

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Totally caught this after the video was posted! Nice catch.

[@MysticalDragon73]

I started paddling a Jackson Traverse on flat ohio waters. I learned a high angle nearly vertical stroke to keep it tracking straight. My hands are often rubbing the side of my boat unless im needing to do a sweep stroke etc. I do this with all my boats including my big rig, coosa x. I see people complaining about tracking of a boat, when in fact its their poor paddling technique. I looked at an aquabound manta ray "carbon" yesterday. This really is misleading as its not what i consider a carbon bladed paddle. Its a plastic blade with carbon reinforcement. It really flexed alot. So much so that I didnt consider it further. I HATE blade flutter and even feel it in fiberglass blades. I started paddling with an Adventure Technologies AT2 foam core carbon blade. Using that and an accent crank bait made so much of a difference. Theres no blade flutter at all. Flutter in non form core carbon bladed paddles is especially noticed in heavily loaded boats such as my bigrig when I have 500-600ls of gear in it. A blade that flexes and flutters is noticed even more with this especially when needing to paddle hard or with urgency. I did get a bending branches angler pro carbon versa lok in 260-275 and 240-255. I wish they made a version with the 230-245 or 220-235 range. I'm looking forward to having them on the water soon. Yes they are rather spendy, but its worth it to me and the efficiency when paddling. Especially when having to maneuver quickly to avoid a hazard.

[@edevans5991]

How much does the performance of the paddle matter for low performance kayaks? Like an inflatable or fishing kayak.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

It’s more of a gas mileage thing. A heavy Paddle it’s gonna wear you out a lot than light Paddle. So if you think of your energy as a tank of gas, A nicer paddle will give you more mileage out of the same tank. 💪 ⛽️

[@alberthicks8758]

I know I'm a yr late....been using a kayak for hunting and fishing for yrs....but I use 2 small wooden paddles.....I just recently bought a nucanoe frontier 12....I need to get a double sided paddle ( kayak paddle)...I'm 5' 7"...any suggestions. I would greatly appreciate it

[@southernlineman]

As a broad generalization, is it safe to presume that people with lots of canoe experience will tend to be high angle paddlers? I've done miles and miles in canoes and am just now getting into kayaking with my son.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Yes that is typical.

[@Jrc4120]

One more question after hearing you talk abou your Navigator. It's pretty heavy, but I'm reading that the buoyancy of the blades make it feel just as light as carbon or fiberglass because of the way it pops out of the water. Do you find this to be true? Between the Navigator and the Aqua Bound Whiskey Fiberglass two piece which one would you pick for a recreational paddler who also fishes a little? Thanks!!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I like the wood. The pop is a nice feel in the water. I personally use a Navigator so I guess that’s my answer.

[@NOMOJO2024]

What is the best way to store the paddle in my garage.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Wall mount paddle holder. I use Suspendz ones.

[@bryanb8366]

Greenland paddle is the way to go! Easy on the shoulders and way better bracing and edging. I loved my gear lab kalleq so much I bought 2. Don't be like me and buy 20 so so paddles. Go for the top of the line out of the gate. It will save you thousands in the long run. And enough with the entry level stuff. When are you and everyone else going to do gear reviews on the high end sea kayak? Every body and there little sister does sit on and rec boats.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

What kayaks would you like to see? I’d like to try the Turning Point boat works.

[@bryanb8366]

@@HeadwatersKayak I am a lover of Seward kayaks. Unfortunately the dealer I'm my area no longer carries them. Hopefully this summer I will get to try the guid 17. Personally I am not a fan of the plastic boats. Can you give me some suggestions,and not Eddy line.

[@EyeToob]

Are there some real expensive paddles that can sink to the bottom of a lake? It seems all paddles should be made to float.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

They all float.

[@benschepps6494]

@@HeadwatersKayak carbon fibre blades have a foam core for positive buoyancy, right?

[@fabiancarmona5406]

Why do most paddles have 3 locking positions? I haven't been able to find an answer, considering that only 1 has worked for me for years.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

That gives both Left and Right handed folks the ability to use an offset. I presonally use a 45 degree right hand offset.

[@brunor78]

When you talk about the weight of the carbon paddle, did you mean 25 oz? 25 grams doesn't seem right...

[@piepkwiep4312]

I see this stuff has evolved a bit since my Kober Weltmeister.

[@vafrog02]

What is a good stable above kayak for whitewater class 1-2+, possibly 3; I am thinking of oldtown sportsman 120? any thoughts? thanks

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Check out the walkthrough of the Bonafide RVR 119 I just posted.

[@kellyclaus2741]

Do you have a cheep way to protect the bottom of a kayak from scratches

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Gorilla tape. Never tried it but hear it works.

[@jeffreyelliott622]

@@HeadwatersKayak Flex Seal makes a tough slick waterproof duct tape that I'm going to try on my canoe when I get one this early fall for they are so expensive I do want to protect the bottom where the surface meats the water or even a rocky area !!!

[@billb3374]

After watching your older paddle

[@UncleDanBand64]

I'll give my 2 cents. I want a stiff blade so I can pole the boat in skinny water. I prefer a longer paddle. I don't care much about weight. I don't cared for feathered. I've been kayaking for 20 years some or better than others. The ones that come with kayaks will get you on the water but generally suck.