Canoe Basics

Canoe Paddles - Different Styles Of Canoe Paddles

Recreational Paddles

Recreational canoe paddles often feature fiberglass blades and shafts. Laminated wooden versions are also available. These are combinations of wood orchestrated for maximum responsiveness and minimum weight. To be forgiving they have symmetrical blades with soft edges.

Tripping Canoe Paddles

Canoe Tripping paddles maximize efficiency and forward power. As the need is for carrying loads over wide spaces, the paddle is suited for this purpose. Here, narrow rounded blades of seven inches are common as are bent shafts. The bent shafts produce a higher cadence and less fatigue.

Whitewater Paddles

Whitewater paddles are more technical. The quick maneuvering required means a stiff, light, powerful paddle. You’ll find spooned power faces with sharp edges. Some whitewater paddlers prefer the control and stability of a straight shaft – especially the stern paddler. The blades tend to be wider, about 9 – 10 inches – necessary to dig into the water.