A solid paddle is one of the most important things that you need to have in your equipment arsenal while out in the water in your kayak.
All kayak paddles will float if left in the water undisturbed. This is a really important feature that ever kayak owner should pay attention to when selecting the right paddle for them because it can help prevent you from losing your paddle.
Manufacturers make kayak paddles in all sorts of material compositions including metal, carbon fiber, reinforced plastic, and many other materials. Most of these materials are designed to float in the water and do however some of them do not because of their overall weight and density. This is something you will want to keep in mind before finalizing the purchase of any kayak paddle option to ensure that yours does not float away downstream while your rowing.
Another great way to make sure you keep an eye on your paddle is by using a paddle leash which will anchor the paddle to either you or your kayak in order to ensure that you know where it is at all times. Paddle leashes come in many different forms, lengths, configurations, and more all of which will allow you to gain the perfect fit regardless of how small or large your kayak happens to be.
Without a paddle, you won’t be able to efficiently traverse the waters in the manner which you desire, that’s why it’s important for you to select the correct paddle option that will provide you with the right amount of rowing power and mobility. Keep in mind that mostly all kayak paddle designs will float once in the water but there are ways that you can minimize the odds of you losing yours.
Make sure to follow all of the tips and tricks that we’ve mentioned in this article so you can choose the correct kayak paddle for your needs in no time. Every kayak paddle is made from different materials all of which impact how durable and efficient they are in terms of moving your vessel forward.
Kayak paddles are twisted to reduce wind resistance. They are more comfortable and are faster and more efficient.
Paddle twisting or feathering refers to the position of the blades in relation to each other.
The blades are “twisted” at an angle as opposed to being straight.
Feathered or twisted paddles are great for high wind waters. The angle of the blade will help reduce wind resistance thus making for smooth paddling.
Twisted paddles are also ideal for when you have to paddle for long distances and are worried about your wrists. There are different twisted angles to choose from which is why it is important to test out the ones that will feel comfortable on your hands or for your wrists.
Last but not least, twisted paddles are also ideal if you are looking for speed and efficiency. They are especially useful if you wish to race as you will benefit from good paddling speed.
Paddle leashes come in many different sizes and material types which is why you want to make sure that you select the right option. In the event that your kayak capsizes, the paddle leash will ensure that you do not lose your paddle at the bottom of the ocean in the event that your other equipment sinks. A paddle leash is also much less expensive than having to buy a completely new saddle if your existing one happens to sink while out on the water.
Many people have a false assumption that if they simply leave their kayak to float in the water that it’s a viable way to keep track of it. This couldn’t be further from the truth as your paddle is always going to float slower than the actual speed of the kayak which is why you need to use a paddle leash. The next thing to keep in mind is whether or not to secure the paddle to your person or to your kayak, the answer is simple, you want to secure the paddle to the kayak.
This will prevent things such as fish snagging your paddle from causing you to be put in harm’s way. One thing to consider is that the area in which the paddle leash is attached will impact how well you can row the boat, if the paddle leash interferes with your ability to paddle your boat in any direction, you will want to switch it’s positioning in order to maintain efficient movement forward.
You also want to make sure that you choose a paddle leash which is long enough so that if you happen to misplace your paddle on the water, you can retrieve it with ease in addition to being able to paddle your kayak without any obstructions. You can find a high-quality paddle leash in several different online retailers and sporting goods stores who offer equipment and accessories for boating. While it may seem like an insignificant piece of equipment, a paddle leash can be a true asset when out traversing the water regardless of where you happen to be.
Always consider your needs on an individual basis before picking up any paddle leash to make sure that you’re choosing the right option for your needs. Don’t forget to secure it tightly to your kayak so that you can easily locate it anytime you may happen to lose track if it’s location.
