Whether you like a slow, easy paddle on a calm, flat lake or a more vigorous and challenging romp through Class III rapids, your equipment makes all the difference when it comes to spending the day on the water. You first need a good canoe, and then you need to choose the best canoe paddle to help guide you through whatever you encounter.
When you need a sturdy canoe paddle that collapses for easy travel, but still provides good control and comfortable use, the Attwood Emergency Telescoping Paddle is a good choice for you.
What to know before you buy canoe paddles
Length
The length of your paddle can affect how comfortable you feel at the end of the day. Too short? The constant reach for the water can strain your back. Too long? You won’t get as much power on each stroke.
Blade materials and shape
There are four primary canoe paddle materials: wood, plastic, aluminum and fiberglass. Fiberglass is used most often for SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), but some whitewater canoeists prefer them for their lightweight durability.
Wood is a classic canoe paddle material, but it does require more maintenance than other types of paddles. Varnish can wear off, and if the paddle is not sanded and re-varnished, your beautiful wooden paddle will rot. Some modern paddles add a layer of fiberglass to wood paddles to increase strength and reduce the chances of wear and rot.
A combination of a plastic blade and aluminum shaft is the most popular choice for canoe paddles today. Traditionalists might say that the paddle is less responsive, but diehard users of this combo appreciate the maintenance-free and lightweight performance. Beginners also find this combination to be good when learning to canoe.
In terms of blade shape, the best guideline is to consider where you normally paddle. Short, wide blades are best used on rivers and shallow water, while long and skinny blades (traditional beavertail) are good for deeper, calmer waters, like lakes.
For more information and options, check out BestReview’s overview of the best canoe paddles.
Canoe paddle features
Portability
Collapsible paddles store well and can even be taken on planes or in backpacks. This portability gives you the opportunity to bring a paddle and head out on the water no matter where you go during the day. Collapsible paddles are also great to have onboard in case your main paddle breaks.
Weight
Lightweight canoe paddles are easiest to use and can reduce your fatigue after a day spent on the water. But don’t focus on weight alone. Consider things like blade material, design and balance to choose the best paddle (which may not actually end up being the lightest one!).
Grip
There are two types of grip to choose from when selecting the best canoe paddle.
Beginners and whitewater paddlers — the opposite ends of the spectrum — generally choose a T-grip for its better control. For those who like to take long canoe trips, a palm grip (sometimes referred to as a teardrop or pear grip) fits easily into the palm of the hand and reduces fatigue.
Shaft
As with grips, there are two types of shaft available in canoe paddles, as well. A straight shaft is traditional and good for all-around paddling. It’s excellent on rivers, too, and whitewater paddlers use this for its superior control.
A bent shaft is best for paddling on calm lakes. Because of the bend, the blade stays vertical in the water and gives the paddler more power from each stroke. The degree of the bend ranges from 7-14 degrees. The sharper the angle, the more efficient the paddle.
Canoe paddle cost
Because of the differences in material, length and other features, the cost of canoe paddles can vary tremendously. On the low end, expect to pay around $15, but prices can reach $300 and beyond.
Canoe paddle FAQ
How do I know which size paddle to buy?
A. Canoe paddles range in length from 42-60 inches and are measured in 2-inch increments. To choose the paddle that’s a good length for you in the comfort of your own home, kneel down like you’re sitting in a canoe (hips lifted approximately 6 inches from the floor while you’re on your knees). Measure from your nose to the floor, and add that measurement to the length of the blade of the paddle you are considering. This will tell you the overall measurement to buy.
How do I care for my canoe paddle?
A. Canoe paddles should always be rinsed and dried carefully after each paddle. For aluminum and fiberglass paddles, this is all the maintenance they will likely need. Store them by hanging them on the wall.
Wood paddles require more maintenance. They should be carefully oiled from time to time using linseed or tung oil. If you notice peeling varnish or deep scratches, it’s time to sand and refinish your paddle. Carefully remove the varnish with sandpaper and varnish according to the directions on the varnish label. Allow to cure completely before using.
Which canoe paddle should I get?
Best of the best canoe paddles
Emergency Telescoping Paddle: available at Amazon
Our take: This compact paddle is great in an emergency (but also works well for regular use).
What we like: Extending up to 42 inches, this lightweight paddle is easy to store and use when traveling. The bright orange color is easy to spot if the paddle ends up overboard, too. The aluminum shaft resists corrosion, and the blade is durable.
What we dislike: The paddle sometimes fills up with water with use and must be drained before storing.
Best bang for your buck canoe paddles
Attwood Ergonomic Aluminum Canoe Paddle: available at Amazon
Our take: With its ergonomic design, this paddle cuts easily through water and is comfortable to use.
What we like: If you need a paddle that is sturdy for heavy duty use but still lightweight and easy to maneuver, this is the one for you. It features good grip on the shaft and the handle for comfort during all-day paddles.
What we dislike: It’s ergonomic, but it can bend if not stored properly for long periods of time.
Honorable mention canoe paddles
Field & Stream Aluminum Clad Canoe Paddle: available at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Our take: These paddles are easy to use, with a sturdy design and lightweight feel.
What we like: The comfortable handle makes this paddle ideal for easy stretches of water on lakes. Grip areas feel comfortable and sturdy and a well-designed blade makes for easy maneuvering.
What we dislike: Aluminum cladding is less durable and can scratch over time and with heavy use. Suzannah Kolbeck is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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