Best whitewater kayak paddles Jan 19, 2022 · Of course, but the canoe’s higher seating position and lack of foot brace make for a long, awkward reach to the water and an inefficient (and tiring) position for using a kayak paddle. Kayaks Jun 2, 2024 · Whitewater Paddle Sizing Guide. Dagger Kayaks Feb 8, 2023 · Best Kayak Paddle in 2023: Top Paddles for Touring, Fishing, and Whitewater Kayaking. Crafted with precision and durability in mind, the Werner Desperado carbon-reinforced whitewater kayak paddle sets the standard for affordable whitewater paddles. Breaking a long kayak paddle down into two pieces makes transporting and storing much easier than with a 1-piece paddle. Paddles made from carbon fibre are generally the most expensive. Fast forward to 2025, and millions of people take to the water every year using kayaks for various reasons, including our modern necessity—yearning to spend time outdoors and recreate. September 20, 2022. Whitewater Kayak Paddles available to buy online at Escape Watersports. Our CLUB paddle is an excellent choice for beginners. These short, sit-inside kayaks are designed to surf river waves, especially the freestyle models. Top picks: Best kids kayaks for 2025 Ocean Kayak Banzai 9. Being happy with your buy comes from firstly knowing exactly the type of whitewater boat you want. In 1991, Grey Owl Paddles owner Brian Dorfman was convinced the world needed a beefed up spoon version of his popular Hammerhead. In this article, we’ve reviewed our top picks for beginner whitewater kayaks. The best whitewater kayaks for ocean wave surfing would be known as playboats. From the paddler's paddle style to paddle sizing to the price, storability and more, you need to find the best paddle for you and your situation. The only kayak paddles we make in 1-piece are our Shred whitewater kayak paddles. Up a creek again? A good kayak paddle is essential to making the most of your time out on the water, and we tested the best from Werner, Aqua Bound, and more! Read Apr 29, 2011 · Best Marine and Outdoors Kayak Paddle, Carbon Fiber Shaft & Fiberglass Reinforced Polypropylene Blades, 220cm, 234cm, 250cm, Lightweight Kayak Paddles for Adults 4. I have always been under the school of thought that a longer paddle and big blades is 20 hours ago · See the Shred family of whitewater paddles. Jan 29, 2025 · If you plan to paddle on a calm lake on some days but want the freedom to mix it up and paddle down some Class I or Class II whitewater, faster flowing stretches of a river or even play in the surf, then a crossover kayak could be the right choice – and you’ll only need one boat. Shop our collection of kayak paddles for sale, available in a range of materials for every paddling activity. The kayak is at least 4,000 years old and was invented as a productive means to secure food and travel. The hope for these top picks, however, is to not only share what I believe are the best whitewater kayaks out there but also provide you with some key elements worth considering when making your choice. It's an honor to think of the places our whitewater kayak paddles have taken boaters over the last 50 years. Paddles made from plastic and aluminum are the most economical. For newbies especially, understanding the differences in whitewater kayaks is critical to making an informed purchasing decision. 5 Aug 19, 2012 · Quick Picks For Best Kids Kayaks: Best Kayak for Toddlers and Preschoolers: Tributary Tomcat + an Adult Best Budget Kayak for Kids: Lifetime Wave Best Kayak for a 5-year-old: Perception Hi-Five Best Kayak for a 13-year-old: Life time Spitfire Best Whitewater Kayak for Little Kids: Jackson Fun 1 Best Whitewater Kayak for Older Kids: Pyranha Rebel Jan 20, 2022 · Another crossover option is found in whitewater kayaks. When the time comes, you can shop for a new paddle, armed with the knowledge to make the best decision. Whether paddling remote gorges or going for gold in freestyle – VE makes the best whitewater kayak paddles. Designed specifically for mountain canoeing novices and young slalom enthusiasts, it combines aramid-carbon fibers for resistance against Best Kayak Paddle for the Money: Seattle Sports SeaWhisper; Best Kayak Paddle for Beginners: Cannon Paddles Escape E Series; Best Kayak Paddle Under $100: Carlisle Magic Mystic Paddle; Best Budget Kayak Paddle: Shoreline Marine Kayak Paddle; Best Whitewater Kayak Paddle: Werner Desperado CF IM; Best Touring Kayak Paddle: Aqua-Bound Eagle Ray 5 days ago · Whitewater kayaking is a different animal. greyowlpaddles. VE carbon Pro - Glass shaft £369. 1. Their tried and true design performs well on big water, creeks and local river sections. A paddle that’s designed for whitewater paddling, for example, will make casual touring on flatwater much more work than it really needs to be. Too lon Jun 4, 2024 · Best Whitewater Kayak: Pyranha Firecracker ($1,699) Best Recreational Kayak: Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL ($1,200) Best Fishing Kayak: Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132 ($6,000) Looking for a kayak that is up for whitewater adventure, then the Lynx II is your boat. The Angler Classic by Bending Branches is a premier paddle for whitewater rafting that promises everything you can get in a high-end fishing paddle at a fraction of a price. Whitewater 3 days ago · The Sea Eagle 420X is a 14-foot inflatable kayak that can handle all types of water, including flat water and up to Class IV rapids. The perfect first whitewater kayak paddle. If you are an intermediate or advanced paddler it is worthwhile investing in a mid to higher range priced paddle. Sep 11, 2022 · Whitewater Kayaking Paddle Size Guide. waterfalls). Our Ultimate performance whitewater blades are far and away our best paddling whitewater paddles. You’ll also find a comprehensive guide to help you decide which one is best for you. If you want to be able to use either a canoe or kayak paddle efficiently and easily, a hybrid kayak with a canoe-inspired design is the better choice. Dropping into deep gorges or carving into an eddy, kayakers know that the right whitewater kayak paddle delivers effortless power in each stroke. Our engineering team has tested and created the perfect combination of fiberglass, carbon and Kevlar to match light weight with our Bomber strength. Decades of research by the world's most talented canoeists and raft guides on the most demanding rivers prove that statement true in our single bladed paddles as well. Our breakdown paddles allow you to adjust the feather to any desired degree, left or right handed. That said, paddle offset, length, shaft diameter can make a difference. Jun 25, 2024 · The Best Kayak Paddles of 2025. No matter what brand or model you buy, too short of a paddle will have you hitting your hands on the sides of the kayak. Specs • Length: 194cm / 197cm / 200cm • Blade size: 680cm sq • Weight (197cm): 1225g / 43oz Dec 23, 2024 · Kayaking fishermen gather up. He has produced an award winning series of instructional kayaking books and videos, and leads kayaking trips to Chile. I saw whitewater as a way to improve my rough water sea kayak skills. For detailed insights into our selection process, don’t miss our comprehensive comparison and analysis section and answers to frequently asked questions. Second, on our list of the best kayak paddle is an option targeted towards anglers. Best Paddle for Beginners: Bending Branches Whisper; Best Recreational/Touring Paddle: Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Posi-Lok; Best High-Angle Recreational Paddle: Aqua-Bound Manta Ray Carbon; Best Kayak Paddle for Fishing: Bending Branches Angler Classic; Best Kayak Paddle for the Money: Bending Branches Mar 15, 2023 · Best whitewater kayak paddles. The shorter length paddle will have less of a sweep stroke effect, reducing the tendency to zig-zag your boat. Jun 9, 2023 · Perception 3-Piece Hi-life Kayak/SUP: Shaft Material: Aluminium Blade Material: Fiberglass reinforced polypropylene Weight: kayak 57 oz. Paddle blade shape: This selection is nearly simultaneous with focusing on the size of the kayak paddle. Affordable and durable whitewater paddles for the novice and mid-range boater. Go solo go now. Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers. com The Ranger X is a heavy-duty expedition and whitewater canoe paddle featuring a modern teardrop blade profile and an 11-degree blade offset intended for long trips and heavy use. Different blade shapes work best with different types of kayaks and paddling styles. In this overview, we've put together a list of kayak paddles that we think are worth your attention in 2023. Solo surf skis are up to 21-feet-long, and as narrow as 16 Whitewater Kayak Paddles; SUP Paddles; Account; Call Us: (541) 535-3606 we know that the best paddles are more than just tradition—they're also made of quality Practice. You can get a decent whitewater paddle for under $200, such as the Aqua Bound Edge Carbon Canoe Paddle. Kayak paddle blade angles. Jan 7, 2022 · That is why it is really important to look closely at all of the design elements of a kayak before settling on one. The adrenaline of a huck fest, river play through your favorite rapid. The Best Inflatable Whitewater Kayaks I dug into obscure magazine articles. Average Length: 60" Average Guide Length: 66" Hint: Measure from floor to chin for a more precise paddle length. Jan 14, 2020 · However, their subtle design features favor different styles of kayaking. By the late 90s, I had set aside the Greenland paddle and started whitewater kayaking. Whitewater paddles are incredibly specialized for the environment that they are used in. Typical Whitewater Yak Riot Kayaks Boogie 50 Whitewater Surf Kayak Oct 26, 2023 · After comprehensive research and hands-on reviews, we’ve compiled a list of the best inflatable whitewater kayaks on the market. Check out some of the best paddles for whitewater kayaking to take a closer look at each feature and what is best for you! Feb 13, 2024 · Here is a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect whitewater kayak paddles. There's also a buying guide to help you choose the best kayak paddle for your adventures. That means that it is a one piece design which gives the paddle continuous flex (similar to wood), added strength and rigidity, as well as stiffness and a lighter swing weight. This is where we earn our bomber reputation Aug 27, 2019 · $165 | paddlesandoars. Cut off from the distractions of every day life deep in a forest or canyon. River Running or Creek Boating: As we paddle downstream we are faced with many features: holes, waves, eddies, and ledges both small and large (i. This gives you pristine control with the ability to make sharp turns and navigate challenging riverways with confidence. These paddles tend to have powerful blade designs that provide power when needed in moving white water. Choose from the controlled Creeker, dynamic Pro, or powerful Flyte. Best whitewater kayaks for 2025 Our top picks. Whitewater C-1 paddle by Grey Owl. Best Beginner Whitewater Kayaks & Riverruners. Whether on the most remote river or lining up for the toughest li Oct 26, 2023 · S ure, the kayak is the main attraction, but for whitewater kayakers, the paddle is doing all the work. Paddling white water is special. White Water & General Purpose Kayak Paddles are typically between 185cm-200cm in length with strong and durable designs. com . Sep 1, 2019 · The Sawyer SUPer Styk is an ultimate whitewater SUP paddle for paddlers of all skill levels. Paddle length, blade size/composition, bent shaft/straight shaft are things to be considered. | Photo: Michael Hewis $160 USD; $180 CAD www. Best Whitewater Kayak Brands 1. What paddles are best for beginner whitewater kayakers? For those just starting out in whitewater kayaking, it’s essential to have a paddle that offers durability and ease of use. No matter the number of blades, our white water kayak paddles are BOMBER. We tested 13 different models to find the best, with Mar 16, 2024 · With a warm winter and lots of rain, whitewater has been on our minds this winter, so we found six manufacturers willing to send us their paddles to test out around the greater Seattle area. Choose the shape of your blade based on the style of paddling you are doing. Nov 21, 2021 · There is more to a kayak paddle than meets the eye. Two of the most trusted names in paddle construction are Galasport and Werner. 6 days ago · Once children are ready to paddle a kayak on their own, it’s time to find the best kids kayak for their age and paddling goals. Jackson Flow How we choose: The best kayak paddles highlighted here were selected based on 31 reviews of 24 products. Sawyer has collaborated with professional paddler Paul Clark to develop these whitewater-specific paddles designed with a straight blade and a slight taper. Surf skis are kayaks designed for open ocean racing. Our online sizing guide is the most up-to-date and accurate source of sizing information for our paddles. Aug 1, 2023 · Shorter than sea kayak paddles, the Powerhouse measures under 200 cm and is perfect for whitewater kayaks’ narrow, stubby design. Nov 20, 2024 · Whether heading out to paddle some burly whitewater or just plunk around the lake, a worthy kayak paddle is an essential companion. Longer paddles are ideal for river running, offering better control in fast currents. Canoe Paddles Jun 8, 2023 · Best Kayak Paddle in 2023: Top Paddles for Touring, Fishing, and Whitewater Kayaking. Each paddle we tested is unique and fills its own niche within the whitewater world. Shorter paddles are better for playboating, where quick maneuvers are key. Werner Desperado Carbon-Reinforced Whitewater Kayak Paddle. You need gear that you can trust. 6 out of 5 stars 1,277 1 offer from $11000 $ 110 00 Jan 29, 2025 · Before you try whitewater kayaking, it can be a good idea to learn some safety techniques and advanced paddling skills, as rapids can be dangerous and you will often need to know how to roll your kayak to right yourself after a capsize. A whitewater kayaking paddle is poorly suited for kayak touring, mainly because touring kayakers should use a much longer paddle than a whitewater kayaker — the narrower and shorter the boat, the shorter the paddle length needed. It was clear that a common vision was shared to deliver high quality paddles with exceptional customer service. The chess match of navigating a river's obstacles, the glide of a surf, the discipline to stick your run. It should be said that, although these are labeled beginner-friendly, they are probably the most common whitewater boats because they are river-friendly and good for whitewater expeditions. Paddler Height: Ideal Paddle Length: Find the best canoe and kayak touring trips in the UK now. Designed for use with short white water kayaks, playboats and surf kayaks. And that means it is a piece of equipment paddlers are incredibly picky about. Ken Whiting was the 1997/98 World Whitewater Freestyle Champion. Jun 6, 2023 · At a Glance: Best Paddles for Kayaking in 2023. In whitewater kayaking, paddle length depends on your height and kayaking style. Feb 12, 2025 · Kayak paddle size: What length kayak paddle you choose depends largely on two factors: your height and the width of the boat. Aqua Bound’s Shred Hybrid whitewater paddle. Jun 13, 2023 · Best Whitewater Kayak in 2023: Reviews and Buying Guide. The durability of our middle connector is what really makes a 2 piece Royal Paddle stand out as the best in the market. Feb 20, 2024 · There are many options to consider when buying a whitewater kayak paddle. The Aerial is our premier whitewater paddle, new for 2024. e. She has covered thousands of miles in different kayaks worldwide, including guiding and safety kayaking on river trips in France, Nepal, California, and Zambia. I even carved a Greenland-style paddle and used it until I felt I had the hang of traditional sea kayaking. Whitewater Rafting Paddles. Lynx kayaks are all-around whitewater craft built for day-long outings and small extended trips. With the extra length offering additional space and a huge capacity, this Sea Eagle boat is the best inflatable kayak for whitewater river trips where you’ll also be paddling on sections of flat water. Apr 16, 2013 · We also recommend shorter lengths if you paddle a boat with very little keel. Kayak Paddles (152 Products) HUGE sale on Kayak Paddles - 20% - 40% off! Limited quantities on hand, only while supplies last. Paddles, key ingredients of paddling At the most basic level, whitewater kayak paddles are essentially just a stick with a large spoon on each end, but we refer to the stick as the paddle shaft, and the spoons as blades. We are honored to be trusted by wh Jan 25, 2022 · Whitewater Kayak Paddle Fundamentals. Jun 27, 2013 · UNI-BODY CONSTRUCTION FOR A MID PRICED BLADE: All Elite Series AT paddles (AT2's) have what is called "uni-body" construction. Feb 21, 2025 · T he number of kayaks available today is astonishing. Apr 7, 2014 · Blade Shape. The toughest, most remote runs, first descents, epic expeditions - the kind of places where a broken paddle is a different level of serious. This gives the swiftwater paddler an efficient tool to maximize each stroke. Advanced materials, combined with a variety of blades and shaft sizes, allow kayakers of all levels to master the rapids. We’re thrilled that Aerial Carbon just received the 2024 Best Paddle award from Paddling Magazine at the time of this writing (11/23). 2 days ago · Having a correctly sized kayak paddle can make all the difference while on the water. In this article, we’re going to Accent Paddles started in 2004 when Lee Bonfiglio and Stuart Lee met at our industry's largest trade show. 2-Piece kayak paddles are, by far, the most common. . 00 Sep 9, 2024 · There are fine models available from a collection of brands in North America. Generally speaking a right hand control 30 degree offset is the most common paddle. Reliability. Apr 22, 2025 · Sara is a well-rounded adventurer with a 20+ year background in paddle sports, including touring kayaking, Class V whitewater kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and squirt boating. May 2, 2022 · When shopping for whitewater kayak paddles, you’ll notice many offerings are available in a bent shaft or a straight shaft paddle design. Read on to find advice on buying a new or used youth kayak, as well as resources to help narrow your search. Find the complete list of Whitewater Kayak Paddles and read Whitewater Kayak Paddle Reviews written by your fellow whitewater enthusiasts. It can also be a good idea to find kayaking forums online where kayak owners share more about their unique experiences with certain whitewater kayak models. (1615 g) / SUP 35 oz. Grab yourself a whitewater kayak paddle to charge rapids or a recreational kayak paddle for more leisurely Bomber means reliability. To assure confidence in the rigors of the whitewater environment, we mold in a thick Dynel edge guard. We asked our experts to help readers understand the advantages and disadvantages of both. (992 g) Amazon How to Choose the Best Whitewater Kayak for Beginners. Palm Maverick G5 paddle. whitewater, kayak, paddles, rivers Aug 10, 2022 · They also don’t have the added few ounces of weight of a ferrule system. There are different paddles designed specifically for different applications and making the right selection will significantly impact your paddling experience. fbmo rikcrh cqbl eeblk vulczczu kbkbjx yndf poo qqcgf wxies sig rkv gewa pxpwqmq iqjf