12 best paddles kayaks

Kayak paddles are essential equipment for kayaking, a popular water sport and outdoor recreational activity. They play a crucial role in propelling and maneuvering kayaks efficiently through the water. Here's what you need to know about kayak paddles:

Design: Kayak paddles are specifically designed for use in kayaks.They consist of two blade-shaped ends attached to a shaft. The design of the blades and the shaft can vary significantly, depending on the type of kayaking and personal preferences.
Materials: Kayak paddle blades and shafts are typically made from lightweight and durable materials. Common materials include plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and aluminum. The choice of material affects the paddle's weight, performance, and price.
Blade Shapes: Kayak paddle blades come in various shapes, including asymmetrical, symmetrical, and feathered. Asymmetrical blades are more common for recreational kayaking and offer efficient paddling. Feathered blades have a slight offset to reduce wind resistance but are more common in advanced kayaking.
Shaft Features: Kayak paddle shafts can be straight or have ergonomic bends (known as "shaft indexing") to provide a more comfortable grip and reduce strain on the wrists. Some shafts are also adjustable in length, allowing you to customize the paddle to your preferred size or share it with others.
Sizing: Choosing the right paddle size is crucial for comfort and efficiency. The ideal length depends on factors like your height, kayak width, and paddling style. Manufacturers often provide sizing guidelines to help you select the appropriate paddle length.
Feathering: Feathering is the angle at which the two paddle blades are set relative to each other. Feathered paddles reduce wind resistance during the recovery phase of the stroke. Many kayak paddles allow you to adjust the feathering angle to suit your preference.
Paddle Types: There are different types of kayak paddles designed for various kayaking disciplines, such as touring, whitewater, sea kayaking, and recreational kayaking. Each type has features optimized for the specific demands of that discipline.
Maintenance: Proper maintenance, such as rinsing off saltwater and storing your paddle indoors, can extend its lifespan. Regularly checking for cracks or damage is also essential to ensure safety on the water.
Safety: Kayak paddles are a critical safety tool. In an emergency, they can be used for self-rescue, aiding others, or even as a signaling device.

When choosing a kayak paddle, consider your skill level, kayaking goals, and budget. Test paddles when possible to find a comfortable and efficient option that suits your needs. A well-chosen kayak paddle can significantly enhance your kayaking experience and make your time on the water more enjoyable.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best paddles kayaks on the market

How to Paddle a Kayak: The 90 Minute Guide to Master Kayaking and Learn to Paddle like a Pro

Based on 91 reviews Check latest price

Paddle Your Own Canoe: One Man's Fundamentals for Delicious Living

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Best Marine Kayak Fishing Paddle. 250cm (98in) Premium Carbon Fiber Paddle with Durable ABS Blades. 34oz Lightweight Angler Oar for Kayaks. Two-Piece Adjustable Kayaking Paddles Accessories.

Best Marine and Outdoors, Inc

Based on 251 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kayak Fishing Paddle

HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT? - Our fishing kayak paddles are made of a carbon fiber shaft and durable ABS blades. Each paddle weighs 34oz and costs less than a hundred dollars! They’re lightweight, strong, durable and affordable!
WHY BEST MARINE AND OUTDOORS? - Our company goal and mission is to help people find inner peace and purpose through kayaking. Our featherlight paddle allows you to relax, breath and effortlessly glide through the water while connecting with nature and soaking in its surrounding beauty
WHO IS OUR PADDLE FOR? - The number one piece of advice most advanced kayakers will offer you is a “carbon fiber paddle”. Aluminum and fiberglass paddles are cheaper, but they’re heavy! Having a lightweight carbon paddle is not only easier on your shoulders, but it makes the entire kayak fishing experience that much more enjoyable
HOW DOES IT WORK? - At 250cm in length (98.4 inches) our kayak paddles are the perfect length for the majority of wider fishing kayaks! Each paddle separates into two pieces for easy travel and storage, includes a 40 inch (100cm) ruler on the shaft, two drip rings which prevents water from running down the shaft, and a 5 ft leash that keeps your paddle attached to your kayak. We also included a hook retrieval notch and a small cutout on the left paddle blade to help remove lures from bad casts
WHO ARE WE? - Located in Massachusetts, BEST Marine & Outdoors is a leading provider of kayak accessories in the USA, Europe and Australia. We stand behind our products and offer complete customer service and satisfaction.

User questions & answers

Question:	How do I contact the seller for replacement? Mine broke with normal use
Answer:	You should be able to find them online or, if you purchase through Amazon, contact their customer service.
Question:	I'm seeing quite a few posts about broken blades, snapping of at the end of the shaft. Any thoughts
Answer:	It was an issue that affected a small percentage of paddles sold prior to July 2020. These paddles were missing a small metal reinforcement rod that connects the paddle blades to the shaft. The issue has since been identified and resolved. All paddles currently in inventory are perfectly fine. Thanks
Question:	would this work for a canoe? is it long enough
Answer:	It’s 98” long and designed for wide fishing style kayaks, so yes, it should work for a canoe as well.
Question:	The specs say aluminum and carbon fiber, please explain what is aluminum
Answer:	Aluminum is mentioned under Product Information: Material I myself wonder about that, if you said it’s all carbon fiber (shaft and blade) then that’s great! Thanks

OCEANBROAD Kayak Paddle 230CM/90.5 Inches Alloy Shaft Kayaking Boating Oar with Paddle Leash, 1 Paddle

OCEANBROAD

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The OCEANBROAD alloy kayak paddle is made of high-quality aluminum alloy shaft (1.1mm shell thickness) and fiberglass reinforced PP blade. It’s with popular medium length of 230cm (90.5 inches). The oar is a perfect choice for kayaking with touring or recreational purposes. It’s detachable at 2 sections, very convenient to carry it around and put it away. It’s an ideal kayak paddle with moderate length for you and your family.

DURABLE AND AFFORDABLE: This kayak paddle is with high-quality aluminum alloy shaft (1.1mm shell thickness) and fiberglass reinforced PP blade. The material combination ensures a stiff and durable kayak paddle at a better price. It’s a perfect choice for starters and intermediate kayakers.
USER FRIENDLY: The oar shaft is designed with a shrinking PE tube cover. It provides better grip for your hands to prevent blistering. Especially, your hands won’t suffer from the cold feeling from the alloy when you kayak in winter weather.
POPULAR LENGTH AT 230CM: Not too short, not too long, the oar is 230cm (90.5 inches) at length. It’s an ideal kayak paddle with moderate length for you and your family. It’s also detachable at 2 sections, so you might carry it around and put it away easily.
FREE LEASH/3 ANGLES/ DRIP RINGS: All OCEANBROAD kayak paddles come with a free bungee paddle leash. It helps secure your paddle to your kayak, especially when you want to lay down the oars, stop by a little bit to enjoy great views around. The paddle is with 3 locking positions for different kayaking angle preference. The drip rings at two ends help stop water flowing from the blades. So, the shaft and your hands won’t get wet easily.
WORRY FREE PURCHASE: OCEANBROAD offers complete customer satisfaction of replacement or refund for any quality issues.

User questions & answers

Question:	How minty paddles do you get
Answer:	It will work with an 8 foot kayak. Lots of variables to consider. I am 5’2” and have a 10 foot kayak. I have this paddle now and it works fine. I prefer this size paddle or longer (I used a 96” paddle for a few years). I would rather not lean at all to paddle. I prefer to sit back the whole time. My kiddo has an 8’ kayak and she was 4’10” using this size paddle and preferred it over the 80 something inch she had before.
Question:	does this paddle float
Answer:	It's oceanbroad, not oceanbored. We manufacture in China.
Question:	Is this the correct size paddle to use with a 8 ft kayak
Answer:	Looks like a synthetic mesh. It is very comfortable and attractive.
Question:	Who makes the brand oceanbored I can't find it anywhere on the internet
Answer:	Yes, they could be used as normal shoes. But they do look like golf shoes. They are very comfortable and do not have golf spikes.

BENDING BRANCHES Angler Classic 2-Piece Snap-Button Fishing Kayak Paddle

BENDING BRANCHES

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Now that you're an avid kayak fisherperson, invest in the Bending Branches Classic Angler Straight Shaft Paddle to get you where the fish are biting. A step up from entry-level paddles, the Classic is light weight and durable, and it has a built-in hook retrieval to unhook a snag or help you haul in a big trout.

Made in Osceola, WI, USA.
Kayak paddle designed with angler-friendly features.
Fiberglass reinforced blades are lightweight, yet durable and include a hook retrieval system which is great for freeing line from snags, rescuing lures and landing large fish.
Fiberglass paddle shaft includes a built in measurement system to provide an easy reference for measuring your catch (in inches and centimeters).
2-piece paddle with snap-button ferrule is easy for travel and storage.

User questions & answers

Question:	I am 5 foot 8 and have a 2019 hobie outback that is 34 inches wide
Answer:	We use them for bottom fishing the only problem was we ordered 8 rods 6 came it broken company said they would replace them but nothing every happened not very happy!!!
Question:	what are kayak paddle splash guards called
Answer:	The med heavy is pretty stiff also. You can cast a heavy lure with it but it is a better straight up and down jigging rod or an even a better trolling rod. It is really pretty though.
Question:	I am 5 foot 8 and would like one for my Hobie Outback..... what size do I need
Answer:	Yes its compatible with bot cast in reel and spinning reels. I ocassionally swap mine from casting to spinning.
Question:	Is the length of the paddle adjustable and what is circumference where you place your hands
Answer:	Mine lined up perfect—-great $ value—my only complaint is that the line has a tendency to come off the roller and bind up between the roller and frame. Plan on changing to a solid eyelet.

SeaSense Kayak Paddle

Unified Marine, Inc.

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Unfied Marine SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle is 96" in length and is manufactured with a fiberglass filled nylon blade making it x-tremely lightweight and durable. Each blade is Blue/White and is made of lightweight polypropylene and reinforced making it more efficient in the water. The shaft is lightweight aluminum with ergonomic foam grips for added comfort and strength. Comes in blue/white.

User questions & answers

Question:	Does the "blue & white" paddle look like the picture posted? The picture shows a pretty sea foam green color but the description doesn't match that
Answer:	I have cut one. I wanted to shorten it by 20cm to make it a good length for whitewater use. It isn't as easy as just cutting off one end. I drilled out the rivets holding the blade on. Cut 10cm off the end. Removed the rubber plug that keeps the shaft water tight so the paddle floats. Put the blade back on the shaft and aligned it with the other side. Drilled a hole for the new rivet. Removed blade to reinstall the plug, just deeper than the rivet hole in the cut shaft. Riveted the blade back on. Repeat the process on the other end. It wasn't hard if you are mechanical and have the 3/16 rivets.
Question:	Does this paddle have a lot of flex to it
Answer:	Don't know exactly, but its certainly NOT the USA. Probably China. Its decent qualit, at a great price, something we can't do.
Question:	Does anybody know if by cutting one side of the aluminium pipe you can adjust the length
Answer:	One
Question:	Where was this product made
Answer:	To the Seller why leave out that info that it floats?

Hornet Watersports Graphic Fiberglass Kayak Paddle- Ideal for Touring, Fishing and Boating- 90.5 inches / 230CM Adjustable with Carbon Fiber Shaft

Hornet Watersports

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

GRAPHIC DESIGN: The blade’s power face has a beautiful double-sided fish scale design, which shows through on the blade’s transparent backface. The other side is reinforced with fiberglass for maximum durability and a sleek look. The dihedral blade shape is ideal for efficiently pulling water.
DURABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT: The paddle blade is made of durable Fiberglass, while the shaft is a mix of light carbon fiber and fiberglass. This combination gives an optimal flex for your paddling session, whether you’re out for a leisurely ride or for a hard workout. The construction of the blade is designed for maximal impact resistance. The paddle weighs 26 oz. (737 grams) and comes with two drip rings to prevent water from getting in your kayak.
MULTIFUNCTIONAL: The midsize blade of this paddle is ideal for touring, kayak fishing and any type of recreational paddling. The paddle is designed for paddlers of all skill levels.
ADJUSTABLE SHAFT: The kayak paddle has a straight shaft and measures 90.5” (230 CM). The adjustable mechanism can extend the paddle to 94.5” (240 CM). The angle of the blade can be changed and adjusted from 0 to 60 degrees. The paddle allows for blade feathering in increments of 15 degrees. The paddle breaks down into two parts making it easy to transport and store away.
100% MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE - Hornet Watersports kayak oars are backed by our 100% guarantee that you are fully satisfied with your product or receive your money back.

User questions & answers

Question:	Does it float
Answer:	It's about 6" but a very soft slope. In other words, the entire plate can be used.
Question:	Would this paddle be suitable for a woman with small hands
Answer:	Hi Amit! We don't sell the plates individually, but you can fond a smaller set of the dinner plates here on Amazon if you type 'Corelle Ocean Blues' in the search bar.
Question:	I have small hands Do you think this paddle would be suitable for a woman with small hands
Answer:	The dots of blue are matte, but 3 different shades of blue. The plate itself is white and shiny. The cups are shiny navy blue.
Question:	Can I put slide on paddle grips on this Paddle? I don’t like the Velcro ones
Answer:	Are you one to use a microwave to warm food? Then you do not have any worries with Corelle Ocean Blues 16-Pc Dinnerware Set. You can use it in the microwave, the oven and for fast clean-up in the dishwasher. Dots of blue along the border reminds you of ocean colors on a spring day. Will add to any table setting. You can use them everyday and for entertaining guest. You will find these dishes to be scratch proof and will not fade or chip. Do not have to worry about children dropping a plate they will not break. Light weight and stack-able.What do you get in this set?Service for 4.10-1/4" Dinner Plates6-3/4" Bread and Butter Plates18-oz Soup/Cereal Bowls11-oz Stoneware MugsPS: Please remember you can use in the microwave oven or dishwasher. They are scratch proof will not chip or break. Pattern will not fade. Stacking allows you to save cabinet space. Did I tell you they come with a 3 year warrant

Product features

MULTI FUNCTIONAL KAYAK PADDLE

Are you looking for a kayak paddle that is a high performance, lightweight, durable, and easy to transport? Look no further. Weighing at only 1.6 pounds, this Hornet product is much lighter than the typical plastic kayak paddles with an aluminum shaft that you find elsewhere. Paddling in a river, ocean, or lake? This kayaking oar will get you there. Whether you are paddling with an inflatable kayak, angler kayak, or other recreational vessels, the Hornet graphic paddle will make you stand out!

FIBERGLASS KAYAK PADDLE

The low-angle of the paddle makes the kayak oar a good fit for your angler kayak when you are fishing. Grab your paddle leash, kayak seat cushion, life vest (PFD), and you will be ready for a wonderful paddle session.

DRIP RINGS

The kayak paddle drip rings will prevent water from splashing off your paddle and going into your kayak

ADJUSTABLE SHAFT

The adjustable paddle gives you more flexibility if you are out sporting with friends or family. The kayak paddle has a straight shaft and measures 90.5” (230 CM). The adjustable mechanism can extend the paddle to 94.5” (240 CM). The angle of the blade can be changed and adjusted from 0 to 60 degrees. The paddle allows for blade feathering in increments of 15 degrees.

FISH SCALE DESIGN

Paddle with the fish in harmony with our beautiful fish scale graphic design. This paddle currently comes in two different styles, green scales and blue scales.

Strong Durable Kayak Paddle Reinforced with Fiberglass

The blade back side is reinforced with fiberglass.

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.

Abahub Kayak Paddles with Free Paddle Leash, Aluminum Alloy Shaft Black/Blue/Orange Plastic Blades, 90.5 Inches Kayaking Oars for Boating, Canoeing

Abahub

Based on 207 reviews Check latest price

MADE to LAST: Made of premium quality 1.15mm thick, 29mm diameter aluminum alloy shaft, and fiberglass reinforced polypropylene blades, this kayak paddle is impact and erosion resistent, thus for great durability. It’s perfect for beginner and intermediate kayakers.
EASY to USE: This 2-sections detachable kayak paddle is designed with 3 locking positions to offset the blade to reduce wind resistance accordingly. It's also designed with 0.5mm shaft fubber cover for better grip. This especailly provides your hands with more comfort during cold winter paddling.
ENERGY EFFICIENT BLADE DESIGN: With 18'' x 6.5''Asymmetrical blades, this paddle is comfortable and energy saving, both for casual and long distance paddling. The blades are feathered with a hollow spine for reinforcement and less weight. All these add up to better cuts and pulls through water.
90.5" FITS MOST: Both kayak length and paddler's height are analyzed to set the length of this oar at 90.5 inches/230 cm, so it could fit most people over 5'5" with the common kayak length of 24" - 28".
PRACTICAL and CONSIDERATE DESIGN: All of our kayak paddles come with a free bungee paddle leash to help secure your paddle to your kayak, especially when you'd like to lay it down to stop for a rest. 2 upgraded drip rings at both joints of the blades are added to minimize water flow during paddling so you won't get wet easily.

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the weight of this paddle
Answer:	Blade length 42.5 cm, width 18 cm. Surface area is about 700 square centimeters.
Question:	Is this for one or two
Answer:	Yes it will work for you. It’s adjustable. I love it. So light. I’m 5’2 and it works for me great.
Question:	where is paddle made
Answer:	Daiwa bg 8000 with 120lb kastking braided line
Question:	weight of paddle
Answer:	Given it's ridgity, it provides for relatively fast action. It is a large diameter/heavier rod, so will want to pair it with a slightly larger reel (65 +).

Symbiosa Kayak Paddle | Adjustable Fiberglass Shaft with Nylon Blades | Lightweight, | Perfect for Kayaking

Pelican

Based on 190 reviews Check latest price

90. 5 in to 94. 5 in height adjustment telescoping ferrule system
A 360° blade angle adjustment permits you to find your perfect angle to optimize performance and comfort.
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
This paddle is ideal for recrationnal paddlers between 5 and 6 ft.
Impact resistant fiberglass reinforced nylon blade for great durability. Adjustable drip rings to help keep hands dry for a better grip
Sport Type: Boating

User questions & answers

Question:	How much does it weigh
Answer:	High angle. It's a good quality paddle for touring around the bay and ocean where I am in socal.
Question:	Anyone own this for a while with input have any issues with the locking mechanism? Read on pelican site you are unable to order replacement parts
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Do these paddles float
Answer:	Hello, Thank you for reaching out to BKC. This shipment would come with 2 full paddles :). Thank you.
Question:	Does the locking mechanism hold up
Answer:	Hello, Thank you for reaching out to BKC. Absolutely! The paddle will float. Thank you.

SeaSense X-TREME 1 KAYAK PADDLE BLACK 96IN

SeaSense

Based on 382 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Kayak 96"

Two Piece Aluminum Construction
Lightweight, Black Molded Plastic Blades
Adjustable Drip Guards
Foam Rubber Grips
Floats

User questions & answers

Question:	Does the shaft of the paddle come apart for easy transport
Answer:	No, but I have never had it out in the rain. It's a very nice bag. I'm very satisfied with it.
Question:	Is the length of this paddle 96 inches total
Answer:	all zippers buckles are real brass metal....thanks
Question:	My kayak is 31” and I’m 5’11” would this be the correct size for me
Answer:	We use ours at daycare and have no problems with smell. I send a new wetbag everyday and wash them after 3 or 4 days.
Question:	Will this work on a bic
Answer:	I have a similar bag, and I pull the wet section out, which helps to make sure it gets completely clean. Before I started doing that I had problems with smell too.

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.