What's the difference in Kayak Paddles? Watch This

If you kayak a lot you know your paddle is important, in this video I team up with Dan from Headwaters Kayak in Lodi, CA for a basic overview of various paddles made of different materials at a variety of cost points. Dan is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to paddle sports and he shares some great info with us. Choosing a paddle is often an overlooked task when purchasing a Kayak. I went with a cheap one when I first got into Kayak Fishing but am very pleased with the paddle I currently have.
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[@ktdin319]

Lots of great Information! Thank you.

[@MichaelCCretu]

Thanks 100 Million Peace and Love

[@just-dl]

Definitely a great introduction! I have a sting Ray and manta ray that I live. Might’ve gone a bit more up the food chain had I seen this first! But on the budget side, I’ve been super impressed with the Quest Vapor at $80. It’s solid, flexible sizing, comfortable…it’s my daughter’s and she likes it better than mine which cost twice as much. What impressed me the most is the lack of rattling when shaken. A lot of cheaper paddles rattle and that means energy is lost on each stroke. Same with flexing paddle heads. Energy spent overcoming the flex is energy not going into propulsion. And as was mentioned, rigidity helps with steering. I’m gunning for a good list of gear at different price points. Frankly, the Vapor at $80 brings more contentment than some of the pricier bits. Also for a data point. My yak is 28” wide as I recall. I sit low and stand at a “towering” 5’7”…210-215 cm seems to be my best length. A little short by your comments, but I bury the whole paddle head so I think it’s okay. Good stuff, gentlemen!

[@jakeq6713]

Thanks guy's I know so much more about the sport then I did 20 mins ago thanks

[@mdsf01]

Awesome video! Headwaters Kayak... excellent YT channel! Dan is such a super knowledgeable kayaker...

[@knightingalesaid]

Thanks for the information!! Knowledge can save you a lot of money!

[@RobertMPaull]

Very helpful video from a noob kayaker. Many thanks.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks for watching, glad it was helpful.

[@thecamerasofeli]

Really great info indeed!

[@tominmo8865]

This is a great video! Thanks so much to both of you!

[@mattparkinson7877]

i learnt a lot from this video as a newbie i no its an older vid but thank u dude much appreciated

[@treynewton3273]

Great video.. love the passion

[@philparsons5135]

Great video, very informative.

[@nrao8977]

5 year old video. Yet so new Thanks

[@laffilmfest3759]

Great info!

[@Rick-tb4so]

Great video.....

[@mdeamicis]

I wish I was not 7 hours from Lodi. Dan seems like a great guy to talk to.

[@longBowHunterII]

great video

[@SamO45]

THANKS!

[@philipoakley5498]

"T-rex" paddling - gonna borrow that!

[@vclassgaming]

Excellent video

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thank you very much!

[@bullyakker]

After 10++ years of owning a Werner bent shaft which weighs next to nothing, it started to leak where the paddle itself meets the shaft. Called Werner, they had me drop it off at the local kayak shop that sells their stuff and in 3 weeks, i thought i had a brand spanking new paddle yet they stated they refurbished it as the model has been changed as a few DID leak and they even offered to trade the old one for a new one for no cost?!?! I asked if they would refurbish it in another 10 years and they said YES!!! I kept the old and loved paddle =) This really IS a great video as the paddle matters SO much!! I try to tell newcomers to upgrade their paddles and allow SOME to try one of mine... after using one of mine they tend to sulk knowing some are over $400 BUT... I have a fantastic $130 paddle that seems to be that great price to performance for many weekend paddlers. Thanks for the video!

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Great story and great service from Werner!

[@bobsmoot2392]

Suggestion: Try/test an Inuit paddle. They are long with very slender blades. After watching an old documentary on Inuit culture and kayaks, I wondered why they always seemed to have the same paddle style. So I made one, of red cedar, to try/test in my fishing kayak. I will NEVER go back to "modern" style paddles. Inuit style paddles are superior in every way, (and much easier on the shoulders). Since the Inuit people invented the kayak (over 4,000 years ago) and their lives depended on their design/build... Maybe they knew what they were doing with their paddle design too?

[@jonathancook4733]

I recently won a kayak from a chain of gas stations in Michigan... buy stuff get entries type of deal ... totally did not expect it ... it's a ultralight Riot intrigue with the see through bottom ... it came with a vest a very cheap paddle... this is really great info.. I now have a little better knowledge on where to start with upgrading... thanx guys!!

[@Outwestwithchris1]

That sounds like a cool boat, especially in clear water. Glad the vid was helpful, thanks for stopping by!

[@solonutiket564]

Get professional instruction on using body rotation to paddle the kayak. Most paddlers that are self taught paddle using just their arm muscles, which sucks. Been paddling 46 years, and getting that instruction the first two years was priceless. Watching new paddlers take 3-4 stokes to my one...Do your research.

[@mattbaker1683]

Total newbie to paddle sports, I have an inflatable Kayak from decathlon UK which is great for lakes and flat water, my girlfriend just got a similar one but the paddle is absolutely crap! Heavy and symmetrical on all sides and faces so it's not at all efficient. She is looking to get a different one ASAP but I feel she's maybe looking for something lighter absolutely rather than the weight being where it needs to be. This was such a great video to introduce me to the benefits and nuances of different paddles. Thanks!

[@JosephMullin]

I use a Bending Branches Navigator. 28 oz. and paddled 5,00 miles from Quoddy Head Light Maine to Key West Florida.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

That's a great paddle. Currently using one of those as well.

[@darksidecarnival5385]

I love hearing Dan explain things. He is so talented and knowledgeable

[@EmpireOfNerds]

Definitely going to check this shop out. I’m moving to River Islands in Lathrop not too far from Lodi. I need to take a class.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

They are good people at Headwaters, definitely stop by and say hey.

[@ffroggy51971]

I wish my husband would let me get a good one. He swears there is no dofference. I agree w u all 100%

[@kayakrob]

Not a word about a leash for the paddle.. maybe I missed that. Not even in the the 451 comments. Very nice video well done.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

You know, that's a good point. I actually think most kayak anglers don't use leashes though. They get in the way a lot. I started out with one and ditched it. I think it makes sense on rivers, and for touring kayaks though.

[@dipimage1935]

thx

[@GlynRadcliffeBrine]

Great video - Lots of really very useful info , easy to understand and interesting. Thank so much!

[@gldsmith61]

That kid knows his stuff. Great job

[@thomasfuchs6514]

Werner paddles are not bad but you should expand the one-sided US view with a look across the Atlantic. I have been using a Lettmann Ergonom Pro for years, paddle blade and shaft in one piece made of carbon, light and extremely stable. Wrist-friendly and hydrodynamically optimized. Unfortunately, for about 650 € no special offer but the best I have used so far. Lettmann is also the supplier of the German Kayak Association. On an international level the most successful sports association in canoe and kayak racing.

[@davefoster7770]

As a tea drinking Brit I can confirm loose grip is good. Also as a Brit the angle of the blades just looks wrong. The Devizes to Westminster has a lot of different water conditions and sneaky rule breaking paddle changes for the stretch of water in question is not unheard of. Classes are good. Paddle style is different for slalom, polo white water racing, marathon racing. You need paddles for the purpose at hand. K1 racing is odd.

[@Runescape.]

you arent moving air you are moving water, very dense material and the harder you pull against it the faster you will go. basic physics, you can either do hard strokes or more frequent softer strokes, but either way you have to expend energy and the weight of the paddle is the lowest part of that weight, the water weight is actually the highest one.

[@bodhi974]

I generally dislike these types of videos but there is some real useful information here.

[@6Sally5]

I haven’t even bought a kayak yet, bu have watched two videos by Dan and his truly professional willingness to help is a rare commodity in any sales business. I have learned a lot and if I still lived in CA (TX now) I wouldn’t hesitate to buy all gear from him.

[@zStickyTreeFrog]

Yeah he should open a shop here in ATX.

[@expatnewfie]

This is the first video I came upon while looking for info for kayak paddles. I don't need to look anywhere else now thanks to you. You answered all my questions. Thank you so much.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching!

[@Kimdino1]

No mention of the Greenland Paddle?

[@OGBlackBridge]

I spent 750 on two kayaks, 150 on two paddles... couldn't feel better about it.

[@muleyscousin6258]

Did not cover Packraft Paddles and Backpack Paddles for mountain streams/rivers. Other than than, he did cover some great info.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

We left out some touring paddles as well. The focus was mainly on paddles Kayak fishermen would choose from. Thanks for watching!

[@asrotties]

I so wish there was someone this knowledgeable here in Wisconsin. Pretty much stuck with box stores and young sales people who have no clue what they are telling us. These videos have helped me so much.

[@WALLACEthaWHALE]

Zellers in Green Bay is awesome

[@DaveCober]

What about Rutabaga in Madison?

[@betzkumangai2463]

deluxe info and NOT boring - staight-up info - I have a Werner for my sea kayak...dude - it is sooo light; if I ever pick up a plastic Carlisle (like in a renatl situation), my arms tire in short order. Love the idea of the wood carbon for $279. Do you ship to AZ? thx!

[@bigrickshaberdashery2759]

bought a fibre shaft with fibre re enforced paddle and worth every dollar. Agree fully nice to have a shop to try out gear.. Be safe and fish on.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks for watching!

[@goblin3810]

60 bucks for an aluminum paddle. Wowzers

[@Hogbellylife]

My cheap paddle works great

[@markperlmuttermd8737]

Great job. Selling stuff post COVID my friend?

[@davidsimmons5936]

Bending Branch

[@shaun9156]

lol i bought 1 tandem, 2 single kayaks all lifetime in one day, havent ever kayak'd but im looking at all the vids XD

[@CatmandoTNR]

LOL closest I have to a kayak shop without driving an hour and a half each wat is Acaemy. The marine store won't even talk to you about a kayak.

[@Haneix1]

My dumbass neglected watching this video thinking it's a fucking paddle there's no difference, and here I am realising how much of a twat I was.

[@jamesklark6562]

I was kinda hoping to be lectured on blade shapes

[@Tidewater_paddler]

This video was very helpful

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks for the Video Chris. Stoked to help get good info out there for kayak fisherman.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thank you for your help man. Let's do it again soon!

[@sathomas105]

Headwaters Kayak I

[@YAKMANONT]

Great info Thanks

[@eviolite1930]

This is a good collaboration. It would be cool if you did other videos 👍🏼

[@FishinFool209]

Great video guys !! I’m just getting in to kayaking. I’m Headed to Headwaters for sure !!!

[@n-da-bunka2650]

Love the look of that wood underlay but they no longer appear to be available in that style..... ANYWHERE AT ALL. Any guidance?

[@lonewolf1461]

A very informative video on kayak paddles. That guy knows his stuff.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

He sure does, thanks for watching!

[@BleedingHeartBellydance]

Great video! Thank you!

[@carolynhaney8046]

He doesn't say the brand of the highest end. Any idea what brand he was talking about on the expensive wall?

[@redsundon]

I am brand new and find all of Dan's video's so helpful. Thanks so much.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks for watching

[@burple65]

Really helpful video for a newbie like me.

[@chrischenusa6323]

Ok, then, I will buy the paddle tomorrow, and the kayak next year, LOL The question is, can we have fun on the water without buying very efficient but expensive equipment? Better using standard equipment for a few years, and maybe invest more money for better ones later. Thanks for the tip.

[@robertrplus5325]

This was one of the best videos I have seen, thanks for your expertise.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks and thanks for watching!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Robert Crank thanks!!

[@carolynhaney8046]

I love watching Dan. He is so knowledgeable. I always trust what he says. This is exactly what I needed to hear.

[@victoro4421]

Thanks for the info guys. Super helpful.

[@CoreyB777]

I had a kayak paddle from ozarka trail and it was an amazing paddle, my first one ever. The paddle blade snapped off not because it was cheap or nothing like that. I was being careless so it was 100% my fault...😔 I plan on buying that ozarka trail paddle again, the one that looks like a bite was taken out if it.

[@usitl5037]

Great video! Thanks. This helps alot. What's the name of that wooden paddle? Whats the name of the high-end ones too?

[@sodiumlights]

ace, thanks for the info relayed with true enthusiasm

[@DeeFromBrooklyn]

Great information. Lot of help

[@cristapicciotti]

And the brand of the last 2

[@dougo9229]

Awesome information! Some stuff here I never would have thought about. Thanks!

[@eugenehobbs6486]

Dan, just watched your video on paddles. I received a Moray fiberglass paddle when I bought the inflatable kayak. The kayak is an Advanced Elements EVO which is 24 " wide and 13' long sit in. I am 82 years old but want a good paddle, recommendations please. Sure cost is an issue, but if it helps, then it is worth it, meaning my priority is on performance for a recreational paddler so that I can explore further. Would appreciate any reply, Thanks Eugene

[@garciedarling]

another great video..love how well you guys teach...

[@leebaseball11]

No way I pay $250 for a paddle. Crazy man

[@Dan-oz4qb]

Almost didn't watch due to length but these guys really know their stuff and it was informative. Thanks.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks for sticking it out!

[@carolynhaney8046]

Thanks to this video, I bought the Werner Kalliste bent shaft. Can't wait to try it.

[@TomJonesGearGuy]

This is a very good video with very good info. one thing about paddle blade size and shape. the long thin blade is more for a low angle style paddling and the wider shorter paddle is more for a higher angle paddle style. Most and not all, everyone has their own style of paddling but touring kayak are narrower and place the paddler lower in the water requiring a shorter length paddle and more of a lower angle paddle stroke. Sit on top kayaks are wider and place the kayaker higher out of the water requiring a longer paddle length and promoting a higher paddle angle. With the lower angle a long narrow blade tends to work better you get more of the blade in the water where a wide blade would still have the top portion above the water. With the higher angle you are able to get the wider blade under the water completely.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

That makes a lot of sense. Thanks for adding to the conversation!

[@jonathank5388]

This is one of the most informative paddle videos online. Thank you guys.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks for watching!

[@marisolcorona9728]

Thank you , now I know what paddle I need and want!! Looking forward to use a nice paddle!

[@jaimeornelasarciga5566]

What's better Deschutes 145 r Navarro 145? Do you think inflatable kayak's r any good?

[@rafabonati7757]

Just to clarify, pro baseball players don’t grip a baseball bat tightly. It’s a very loose grip on the bat. That’s one reason bats go flying every once in a while. And this video was downright awesome! Thanks for all the fantastic information related to kayak paddles. I really think I would like that Werner with the bent handle to relax the wrists.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

I want that Werner too!

[@MonkeyNAround]

Great video packed with lots of information. Thanks for sharing.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks for watching!

[@YankeeTankerOutdoors]

Dan is hands down the best person to talk to about this.. he runs such a great shop with great people. - Looking forward to being there on Tuesday for the rudder install. This vid was great!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Yankee Tanker Outdoors look forward to the visit!

[@Outwestwithchris1]

I agree, great kayak shop with a ton of good knowledgable folks working there. Thanks for watching buddy!

[@keystonedaytrip238]

Yeah man - a light paddle makes a day of kayaking much more enjoyable ! I started with a Manta Ray , quickly evolved to a Sting Ray . Huge difference

[@diana3599]

very helpful information. Great details that i had no idea about.

[@BamaArcher]

I expected pretty dry content (nopun) but this was VERY informational and well done. Doing my research before buying my first kayak and this was very helpful. Thank you!

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks for watching, glad it was helpful!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Haha. Glad we could keep you entertained.

[@TheMichiganFisherman]

Here’s all you need to know: 1) Buy one that is Carbon Fiber 2) Do NOT buy an angler paddle. The little notch cut out of it gets stuck on weeds and lily pads ALL the time. You end up getting wet, it’s annoying, it slows you down, and you’ll almost NEVER use that notch. You’re welcome. 🤨👍

[@sandrapisarski6597]

yes, THANK YOU for these videos!

[@YancySmith]

Great video. Most useful info on paddles I've seen on You Tube. Dan is THE man!! 👍

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Dan is the man! Thanks for watching!

[@stephenhirschhorn1833]

Great video. Fishing from kayak for a couple months now. Great video,good teaching. Keep making videos. I subscribe.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@glennkitchen8867]

Thank You!!!!!! I'm up here in Niagara Falls Canada,, We play in the Niagara River (yes above the Falls).... I'm a rookie & what you said rocks!!

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Glad it helped!

[@CanoeKayakFishingAdventures]

What model and brand is the paddle you have. I have been searching for over a year and the one you are referring to in this video sounds like it would be a great fit for me. I have been focusing more on proper technique and trying out different paddles. So far I have not found the sweet spot.

[@an10nee]

I need to know the brand 4:42 take my money lol

[@ihernandez296]

What is the blue paddle ? Didn’t mention the name

[@markursich3305]

excellent education! really enjoyed and learned a great deal. Thanks!!

[@flashmanv3260]

Great video. Nice to hear from someone who really know the difference between the paddles and can explain the benefit of one vs the other.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Yeah I am lucky to have a Paddle Shop with a knowledgable staff close by. Dan and his team are great. Thanks for watching.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Thanks dude!

[@billraab2436]

Good stuff... thanks for sharing.

[@Outwestwithchris1]

Thanks for watching!

[@Kwood10]

I have an Aqua Bound carbon Sting Ray & a Werner Shuna Happy with both .

[@Inhimwelive]

I maybe a newb to this but I'm smart enough to know that if a paddle is buoyant enough to come back up I am using more energy to push it down. Therefore buoyancy is not decreasing energy expended.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

You forgot to factor in gravity. Try them both and see if you don't notice a difference.

[@markmoreno7295]

Greenland style paddle?