The length of a paddle is a very personal thing and depends on many factors. Body size and purpose are a couple of things to consider but the most important factor, is what works for you as the paddler. If you have a chance to test out paddles, you should try  out various lengths and styles .

At one time paddle selection was easy - put the tip on the ground and if it came to your chin, some people said eyes, then it was the right length. An alternative method was to hold both ends of the paddle (grip to tip) between your outstretched arms.  

Sizing a paddle should be done when actually sitting in a canoe on the water. At the mid-point of a basic forward stroke the blade should be submerged in the water and the grip end should not come above your nose or chin.

The length of your paddle is very dependent on:

·         How you actually paddle.

·         The size and type of canoe you are using.

·         How the seats are placed or how you sit.

·         Your body type and size.

The best method for paddle selection is actually taking the paddle on a trip and trying it out. Unfortunately this is not often an option when you are standing in the store. So how do you select the perfect starter paddle when standing in store? The following two suggestions will provide an approximation for the proper length.  

Hold the paddle as you would when paddling but put the middle of the shaft on the top of your head. If your arms form roughly 90 degree bends then the paddle is about the right length for your body. When you are holding the paddle your shaft hand at the throat should be 5-10cm above the blade (some say more others less).

Sit down on a low bench or chair and put the grip on the seat beside you. If the blade starts near your eyes, or one fist distance above your chin then the paddle is about the right length.

There are some other considerations beyond the length when picking a paddle.

The balance point of the paddle should be just above the blade at the throat or neck, near where you hold the paddle.

The shape and size of the blade should be matched to the intended purpose and your strength - short and wide for whitewater, narrow and long for deepwater tripping.

To determine proper paddle length, sit in the canoe seat and place the blade completely in the water; the top of the grip should be at shoulder level. Therefore, when you push the top of the paddle, your arm will be horizontal with the water. If water is not available, place the canoe on carpet or in the grass, sit in it and turn the paddle upside down with the grip resting on the floor/ground. The throat should be approximately 3” below shoulder level.

Sitting In A Canoe:

To determine proper paddle length, sit in the canoe seat and place the blade completely in the water; the top of the grip should be at shoulder level. Therefore, when you push the top of the paddle, your arm will be horizontal with the water. If water is not available, place the canoe on carpet or in the grass, sit in it and turn the paddle upside down with the grip resting on the floor/ground. The throat should be approximately 3” below shoulder level.