7 best bent shaft kayak paddles

Bent shaft kayak paddles are a specialized type of paddle designed for kayaking enthusiasts. Unlike traditional straight shaft paddles, bent shaft paddles have a slight bend or angle in the shaft, which positions the blade in a more ergonomic and efficient angle relative to the water. This design is aimed at reducing strain on the paddler's wrists and arms, allowing for a more comfortable and efficient paddling experience.

The bend in the shaft of these paddles helps paddlers maintain a more natural wrist position while kayaking. This can be especially beneficial during long trips or in challenging water conditions where precise and efficient strokes are essential. The ergonomic design of bent shaft paddles is intended to minimize fatigue and improve overall paddling performance.

Bent shaft kayak paddles come in various materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, or aluminum, each offering different levels of durability, weight, and performance. Paddlers often choose paddles based on their skill level, paddling style, and budget.

It's important for kayakers to choose a paddle that suits their individual needs and preferences to enhance their kayaking experience and make their time on the water more enjoyable and efficient.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bent shaft kayak paddles on the market

AQUA BOUND Tango Fiberglass Bent Shaft 2-Piece Kayak Paddle

Bending Branches

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Aqua-Bound Tango Fiberglass Bent Shaft 2-Piece Kayak Paddle - The Aqua-Bound Tango Fiberglass Bent Shaft 2-Piece Kayak Paddle with its long slender blades is designed for low-angle, more relaxed paddlers. Along with the naturally comfortable, ergonomic 3K plain weave carbon shaft, it has a super light swing weight yet is strong and very durable. The Posi-Lok breakdown ferrule is extremely easy to understand and use, clicking firmly and unmistakably into place. There is no wear, wiggle, or movement in this ferrule system at all, and no metal parts to corrode. It’s easy to adjust the feather angle on the fly and the external ferrule keeps hard-to-reach sand or debris from collecting inside your paddle shaft. Every component makes your kayaking experience more worry-free and enjoyable.

Hand-crafted multi-laminate fiberglass blades
Compression-molded to increase strength and durability while decreasing weight
3K plain weave carbon shaft, Posi-Lok ferrule with corrosion-free construction
nfinite feathering angle adjustability, 6.6 in x 17.9 in, 96 sq. in., 28 oz.
1-year manufacturer warranty against manufacturing defects

User questions & answers

Question:	The size chart is not in the listing. I'm 6' tall. What length would I need
Answer:	It comes in adidas packaging.

Werner Sherpa Carbon Bent Shaft Whitewater Kayak Paddle

Werner Paddles

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Werner Sherpa Carbon Whitewater Kayak Paddle - The Werner Sherpa Carbon Whitewater Kayak Paddle is an exceptionally smooth and responsive river running design. The blades are evenly balanced creating a clean bite on the water that is powerful and smooth from catch to release. The Sherpa excels in strength and is rightfully known as bomber! You’ll also enjoy the benefits of an ergonomic neutral bent shaft. Neutral Bent means the blade, ferrule, and grip are in a straight line for the familiar feel of a straight shaft. Align your wrists in a more ergonomic position, reduce fatigue, and gain the confidence of full hand contact. Developed with just the right amount of flex, Werner’s carbon bent shafts are handcrafted with pride and focus in Sultan, Washington.

Performance Carbon blades, mid-size river running/creeking design
Carbon laminate construction, slight dihedral, 48 x 19.5 cm, 680 sq cm
Continuous weave 1-piece carbon shaft
Handcrafted in Sultan, WA, 1-year manufacturer warranty
Average weight: 964 g (34 oz)

AQUA BOUND Whiskey Carbon Bent Shaft 2-Piece Kayak Paddle

Aqua-Bound

Check latest price

Product description

The Aqua-Bound Whiskey Carbon 2-Piece Posi-Lock Paddle has a smooth feel and a strong bite. The Whiskey is pure carbon from blade to blade for an ultralight weight and strong rigidity suitable for high energy, performance touring. Its two-piece design is held together by a Posi-Lock (also carbon) system that assure corrosion-free convenience as well as infinite ferrule adjustments. This bent shaft puts your arms and wrists in a more natural position for comfier stroking.

Shaft Material: 3K plain weave carbon
Blade Material: compression-molded carbon
Overall Length: 200cm, 205cm, 210cm, 215cm, 220cm, 225cm, 230cm, 235cm, 240cm
Blade Length: 16in
Blade Width: 7.8in

AQUA BOUND Tango Carbon Bent Shaft 2-Piece Kayak Paddle

Aqua-Bound

Check latest price

Product description

If you're going to do something right, you might as well go all-in with the Aqua-Bound Tango Carbon 2-Piece Posi-Lok Paddle. This lightweight performance touring paddle features a construction that's purely carbon, all down to the Posi-Lok ferrule, delivering the lightest possible swing-weight without compromising rigid performance. With such an ultra-light paddle at your side, you can set out on all-day adventures without getting tired. The Tango Carbon's blades are designed for low-angle paddling, which reduces stress on your back muscles and lets you spend more time on the water.

Shaft Material: T-700 carbon
Blade Material: compression-molded carbon
Overall Length: 210cm, 215cm, 220cm, 225cm, 230cm, 235cm, 240cm, 245cm, 250cm
Blade Length: 17.9in
Blade Width: 6.6in

Poseidon Paddle 89 in - Aluminum Shaft with Reinforced Fiberglass Blades - Lightweight, Adjustable Kayaks Paddles

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Two sturdy pieces of aluminum construction. Impact resistant fiberglass reinforced polypropylene feathered blade design for great durability
Adjustable drip rings to help keep hands dry for a better grip
Enforced push-button connection with 0 or 65˚ angle adjustment
The perfect fit! Our 89 inch (226cm) long paddle is not too short and not too long. Perfect for your trips on the water!
Ovalization: The shaft goes from a rounded shape to a slightly oval shape (called indexing) which serves as a reference to where you should be placing your right hand

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this float
Answer:	We have had these for a short time - so far, yes. Being adjustable is a nice feature. There is a flap in the center that locks / clamps the paddle at the desired length. The paddle does not slip when locked in place.
Question:	Will this work for 5’3” person and 32” wide kayak
Answer:	This paddle has a matte grainy texture like a chalkboard and it has stayed that way for about 18 trip now.
Question:	Are the paddles curved
Answer:	2 pieces- nicely packaged. Must add that I love the "rule" on the paddle shaft.
Question:	what is the difference between this and the older pelican poseidon paddle found on amazon
Answer:	It will breakdown into two pieces.

Intex Boat and Kayak Oars Series

Intex

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

86 inch assembled length
Ribbed spoon shaped blades for maximum performance
Strong and lightweight aluminium shaft
3-position feather adjustability

User questions & answers

Question:	Looking for emergency oars for 20 foot out board boat
Answer:	Metal
Question:	I'm looking for an oar to use with tube to float the river. Will these hold up
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Are the handles metal or plastic
Answer:	Hello Christine,The Triton Carbon Fiber Paddle weighs only 2lbs, slightly less actually like 1.8lbs - but round up to be fair :)Let us know if you have any other questions, we'd be more than happy to help.All the best,Gold Coast Surfboards
Question:	Do these float
Answer:	It is 4 pieces. Can be used as a kayak paddle or broken down to a SUP paddle.

Carlisle Magic Mystic Kayak Paddle with Polypropylene Blades and Aluminum Shaft

Carlisle

Based on 61 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Carlisle Magic Mystic is a durable and efficient introductory kayak paddle. The two-piece aluminum shaft and fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene blades provide a durable, reliable option.

Asymmetrical, slightly curved blade shape produces smooth, efficient strokes
Anodized aluminum shaft for corrosion-resistance
No-fail push-button ferrule allows blades to be set inline, or feathered at 60-degrees for right or left-handed control
Two-piece design for compact transport and storage
Rubber drip rings keep excess water from running down the paddle shaft and into your lap

User questions & answers

Question:	What length paddle for 12 foot kayak, loon
Answer:	91% poly 9% spandex
Question:	How long is this paddle
Answer:	Check description for exact size
Question:	Has anyone used this with a bonafide ss
Answer:	S should be ok
Question:	Whats the weight of this paddle
Answer:	M= 4"
Question:	ft tall 35in wide kayak. What size should i get
Answer:	I'm not sure what the question is. I purchased large because they do shrink slightly. It would fit a 36-40 waist in size large I believe.

Product features

Carlisle Magic Mystic Paddle

The Carlisle Magic Mystic is a durable and efficient introductory kayak paddle. The balanced asymmetrical blades reduce torque and minimize wrist fatigue. Slight spooning in the blades grab more water, providing the power needed when paddling a typical 10-to 12-foot recreational kayak. The lightweight tempered aluminum shaft features a bend where hands normally grip, minimizing the wrist flex during the forward stroke; with rubber drip rings to keep excess water from running down the paddle shaft and into your lap.

Built to Keep Going

The first Carlisle paddles were created more than 30 years ago with local guide and livery companies in mind. Our paddles were built to deliver the core strength and durability that expert guides need. Today, Carlisle offers outstanding recreational kayak paddles and oars in a variety of materials and designs-each suiting the needs and conditions individual paddlers face.

Sturdy Construction

This paddle is a work-horse; combining a blade shape that provides impressive water-moving power with the most durable shaft material - anodized aluminum.

Comfort & Efficiency

The lightweight tempered aluminum shaft features a bend where hands normally grip, minimizing the wrist flex during the forward stroke.

Rubber drip rings keep excess water from running down the paddle shaft and into your lap.

Easy Break Down

When you're done for the day, the Magic Mystic breaks down into two pieces for easy transport and storage. You can also use the no-fail push-button take down to feather the blades at 60 degrees for right- or left-handed control.

A Length for Every Style

The Magic Mystic comes in three lengths - 220, 230, and 240 centimeters. Find the perfect match based on your torso length and the width of your boat.