Do you know how to pick out the right paddle for steering and paddling your kayak or canoe? Maybe it’s your new NuCanoe that you need paddles for. It’s really an individual’s own choice, but a number of factors will play a major part in which one is right for you including your height, watercraft width, and what type of paddling you are doing. Other options that have to be considered when selecting a paddle is blade shape, blade construction, shaft type, and shaft size. In most situations the deciding factor between all of the paddles available is price. Premium paddles are made with quality, lightweight high-tech materials, but come with a higher price tag.

What paddle is right for you and your NuCanoe? Begin by checking out Nucanoe’s (www.nucanoe.com) website. It recommends 3 different paddles. They are made by Cannon Paddles (www.cannonpaddles.com). “I would recommend the Cannon Wave Paddle for anyone wanting to purchase a paddle for their NuCanoe. The reason why? It’s a wider boat so you need a big blade with a large surface area to move more water,” said Stuart Lee president of Cannon Paddles. Lee knows paddles with a lifetime of experience in the business and what paddle someone should pick. Length is the first factor in selecting a paddle. In general paddles used for whitewater will measure 188 centimeters (cm) to 203cm long, inflatable kayaks 220 cm to 240 cm, touring and recreational paddles 210 cm to 240 cm in length or 270 cm to 275 cm for the wider NuCanoe. “Which length differs between individuals and it’s best to see what works best before purchasing it if possible. There is no set length. You should be able to reach the blade in the water without having to reach. A good way to check if the paddle is right for you is to try it out in the store,” Lee continued, “another thing is to try out a right or left hand model to see which one you prefer before purchasing one.” Of course the best way is to test them out on the water. Many stores have demo models that you can use to see if it’s the right paddle for you.

When picking a paddle the paddle length, the blade shape and if it is feathered or not is important. The blade shape can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. A symmetrical blade generates lots of power to move you, but requires more energy per stroke compared to the asymmetrical counterparts that use less energy per stroke. Asymmetrical blades are generally used when paddling for long periods to reduce fatigue. Blades can be feathered or not feathered. A blade that is feathered has its blades rotated at an angle to match each other. This decreases wind resistance. Blades that are parallel to each other will catch more wind per paddle increasing fatigue quicker. The Wave by Cannon Paddles has either a feathered 60 degree RHC or 60 degree LHC blade or an un-feathered model to choose from. The Aluminum shaft paddle blade is made from fiberglass reinforcement nylon and the carbon shaft a carbon blended nylon material.

Cost is another consideration when selecting a paddle. A NuCanoe can be paddled solo or in tandem and that would require 2 paddles. Cannon Wave Paddles are made in U.S.A. and come in 3 models each with different shaft composites. Of course the price depends on which model. Each model has a fiberglass ferrule that’s engineered to increase performance and last longer.
3 Models of Cannon Wave paddles
• 270cm Wave Aluminum (39 ounces)
• 275cm Wave Fiberglass (35-ounces)
• 275cm Wave Carbon (34-ounces)

Kayak paddles require little maintenance. “After going out paddling the paddles should be taken apart and rinsed with fresh water. This is especially important when paddling in saltwater. When storing the paddles they should be left apart after rinsing them.” said Stuart Lee.

When it comes to selecting a paddle for your canoe, kayak, or NuCanoe it comes down to which paddle best fits you and your bank account. Another major consideration is what type of paddling that you are doing. You will become fatigued quickly with a heavy weight aluminum shaft paddle compared to the carbon shaft models. No matter what price or construction of paddle you get it should fit comfortable in your hands.