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The right paddle length makes paddling more comfortable and more efficient, and helps you develop a good technique. Three things decide which length suits you: your height, the width of your kayak and your paddling style.
| Your height (cm) | Kayak under 59 cm wide | Kayak 59–74 cm wide | Kayak over 74 cm wide |
|---|---|---|---|
| <165 | 210 | 220 | 230 |
| 165–180 | 220 | 220 | 240 |
| 180+ | 220 | 230 | 250 |
Recommended paddle length in cm – a guideline, not an exact rule.
220 cm is a good starting point for most paddlers – adjust from there depending on how it feels.
A quick rule of thumb: stand up straight and stretch one arm above your head. The paddle should reach roughly from the ground to your fingertips, ±10 cm. If you have the paddle with you, stand it upright in front of you and reach up towards the top blade.
The wider the kayak, the longer the paddle needs to be, so the blades reach the water without you leaning out. Narrow touring sea kayaks (under 59 cm) usually suit a 210–220 cm paddle. For kayaks wider than 74 cm, a paddle of 230–250 cm is better. Many inflatable kayaks are in this wider group, so check the width of your kayak before you choose.
Most beginners – and most people on long tours – use a low paddling style, holding the paddle fairly low and close to the kayak. With a low style, choose a slightly longer paddle.
With a high, more vertical style – common in fitness paddling – you hold the paddle higher, at about eye level, and a slightly shorter paddle works better.
Paddle length also affects leverage. A slightly longer paddle gives powerful, heavy strokes; a shorter one gives a higher stroke rate. If you are unsure, an adjustable paddle is a safe choice: our carbon fibre kayak paddle adjusts between 215 and 225 cm, and the carbon fibre wing paddle has adjustable length – both with stepless adjustment of the blade angle. Our popular two-piece aluminium paddle comes in fixed lengths from 210 to 240 cm, so use the chart above to pick the right one.
Read more about paddle types and materials in our guide How to choose the right kayak paddle, or see all kayak paddles. Need advice? Contact us – we are happy to help.
