Rating of the best paddles for kayaks and kayaks for 2022

An overview of the characteristics of the oars shows how diverse they are and how to choose the best option for easy holding of the selected line, smooth acceleration and turning of the boat, as well as the implementation of the Eskimo coup. Equally important is the quality and durability of products. It is also worth considering the complexity of the thresholds and the maximum loads that fall "on the shoulders" of this product.

general description

Manufacturers have filled the market with quality products. Popular models of oars are distinguished by a special shape of the blades, which significantly affects the scope of their application. For example, oars for kayaks are made asymmetrical, and symmetrical options are long gone and are considered an anachronism. Consider what you should pay special attention to when choosing a product:

• Rowing slalom. Refers to Olympic sports. Its essence is to cover a certain distance as quickly as possible along a stormy river. It is possible to achieve outstanding results in this sport only with elongated devices and a spoon-shaped appearance. They help to quickly disperse the boat and control it efficiently.
• Rafting on a stormy river. The recommendations of experts boil down to the following: the subject should be broad and short. This makes it possible to make an Eskimo coup and successfully manage a watercraft.
• Travel on smooth water. The selection criteria are as follows: the product must be with narrow and long blades. This helps to gain speed in a matter of seconds, as well as to make quick and sharp maneuvers.
• Freestyle on white water. The rating of quality goods for these purposes is headed by models with the shortest and widest blades. Such oars contribute to the high-quality performance of acrobatic stunts in a barrel or on a wave.

In addition to length and width, you need to pay attention to such features as the profile of the section, as well as the thickness of the object. The thick spatula with a volumetric section is excellent for water. In addition, it is easier to do complex strokes with it.

Equally important is the shaft - a special tube that connects the blades.What are they? Curved and straight. Before you buy a model, you should take it in hand. It should fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, be comfortable and not slip.

Production material

The first products were made of wood. Somewhat later, aluminum alloy began to be used. Today you can still find wooden fixtures, but they are considered rare. They belong to the category of rare and exotic goods, besides they are expensive. Kayak paddles are made from the following materials:

View	Description
Composite	In the production of modern paddles for kayaks, carbon, Kevlar, fiberglass and their combinations are used. Such goods are made by hand, so they are not budgetary.
PET + aluminum	It is considered inexpensive and less convenient due to the combination of polyethylene with an aluminum shaft. The production technology allows you to make a variety of shapes, but such oars cannot boast of quality. Aluminum can break or be damaged by impact. Such models are popular among beginner sea and lake kayakers.

Composite devices are considered the best, as they have:

• progressive shaft and blade shape;
• sufficient strength;
• rigidity;
• lack of deformation;
• low weight;
• optimal flexibility.

Let's get acquainted with the advantages and disadvantages of models made of composite materials in more detail.

Carbon

They belong to the category of the most high-tech and expensive materials. The main feature is the minimum weight with maximum rigidity. They are lighter than their fiberglass counterparts and are less likely to break. Products are not painted and have a natural black tint.

• optimal stiffness and lightness;
• slow chipping.

• the black color is practically invisible on the water, so experienced kayakers stick various bright stickers on the oars;
• overpriced.

fiberglass

The product is inexpensive and less durable than the above. In addition, its service life is insignificant, but despite this, it has certain advantages.

• brightness and variety of colors;
• affordable cost.

• quickly erased on hard objects.

Classification

These devices are available in 2 types:

1. Collapsible, consisting of several elements (from 2 to 5).
2. Whole. This option is more reliable and durable, but there are problems with transportation, especially by air.

According to the type of grip of the rower, the oars are:

• left-handed;
• right-handed.

Blade shape:

• symmetrical;
• asymmetrical.

By appointment:

• for expedition or tourist kayaking;
• for rafting kayaking;
• for recreational kayaking;
• for rowing and rowing slalom.

Paddles for tourist and recreational kayaking

They have the simplest and most unpretentious appearance. They are used by beginners for short trips. They are usually made of duralumin (painted or anodized) and have polyethylene or plastic blades. To lighten the weight, manufacturers produce fiberglass-reinforced nylon or polypropylene end pieces. Grip points are marked with black shrink tape.

In most cases, models with symmetrical blades are designed for beginners mastering kayaks. Available in two, three and four sections. You can adjust the angle of rotation to several positions.

Tourist specimens are light and easy to use. They are distinguished by reliability and high cost.In their manufacture, only composite materials are used, for example, high-modulus glass, Kevlar or carbon.

Sports models

Representatives of this category include:

• for rafting kayaking;
• for sports rowing.

The first option provides for the separation of oars for their intended purpose, namely:

• play kayaking (for rodeo);
• creeking & river running (for rafting kayaking).

To win in rowing slalom, kayaking and canoeing, you need to choose the right device. In order to avoid mistakes when choosing, you need to carefully approach this issue. The model is selected individually for each athlete. The coach takes into account everything: the dimensions of a person, his personal qualities, physical abilities, etc.

For SUP

They differ in structural elements and are adjustable, solid and folding. Based on their purpose, they are divided into racing and universal. Solid ones have a fixed length. They are lightweight and reliable. There are no unnecessary elements and moving parts, which makes their service life longer. The main disadvantage is the size, which sometimes complicates the process of transportation to the destination. They are used with hard boards.

Adjustable are two parts, disassembly of which is not provided. There is only a latch on the design, and each manufacturer independently chooses its features. The main advantage of the model is the ability to adjust to a person's height and different riding styles. Such oars are considered reliable and comfortable. The only drawback is that they wear out quickly.

Collapsible specimens have three parts and are great for an inflatable kayak. They can be easily stowed away in a bag and placed in the trunk of a car.The advantages include low weight, compactness and ease of transportation. The main disadvantage is relative reliability.

For rafting

You should choose a paddle for a kayak by analogy with canoes and kayaks, but there is one design feature. Models can be collapsible or solid, but their structural elements invariably remain:

• blade;
• shaft (duralumin tubes);
• handle (T-shaped).

In the manufacture of the shaft handle, it is filled with compressed air so that the equipment does not sink when it falls into the water. The handle itself is selected for a person, based on his anatomical features. The usual fixture is 1.65 m long, but if necessary, it can be adjusted. Models may differ in left and right grip. The tube diameter is about 30 mm. The weight of the device is 800 g.

The form also has significant differences. Swing oars have narrow shoulder blades. As for the average dimensions, for a conventional fixture they are 195 x 470 cm. Which one is better to buy depends on many factors. Devices can have blades with the ability to adjust the angle of rotation, have an asymmetric appearance and be made of a composite material.

How to choose the right option

The main task is to determine where the product will be used, how actively and professionally. The individuality of products is evident: each company produces products that are identical in shape, but different in size. Large people fit shoulder blades with a large area, while fragile girls are more comfortable working with smaller versions.

Equally important is how much the product costs. Goods made of hard and durable carbon fiber are expensive. Inexpensive options are made from fiberglass.It should also be borne in mind that different materials can be used in the manufacture of a particular product.

It is necessary to correctly determine the length of the structure. This parameter is directly related to the height of a person and the regularity of using the device. However, there is one rule for everyone:

• with growth up to 160 cm, the length of the structure should be 190 - 191 cm;
• with growth up to 180 cm - 197 cm;
• for tall people (more than 190 cm), it is better to purchase a device whose length is 203 cm.

There are left-handed and right-handed specimens. If the working hand is right, then give preference to the right grip. And vice versa. If you can’t decide, then you should opt for designs with different grips.

The blades of the oars can be deployed at different angles to each other. For freestyle, small angles are more suitable - from 10 to 15 degrees. Rafting and slalom require a turn of 30 - 45 degrees, so the advice of experts is inappropriate here. Everyone chooses according to their own desire, based on the functionality.

Specialized stores offer models-designers, consisting of a shaft and two blades. The buyer independently determines the parameters, turn and glues the device at his own discretion. This process is not difficult, but requires some accuracy, as well as knowledge and skills.

The shaft is straight and curved. It all depends on the personal wishes of the buyer. Some prefer ergonomics, others - strength and weight. There are a number of companies on the market that specialize in the production of thin shafts, especially for small female hands.

Where to buy and which company is better - each person determines independently. There is no shortage of specialized points.If you decide to order a product online, then you should first look at the photos, get acquainted with the new products, study the ratings and reviews.

Craftsmen make oars for rowing with their own hands at home according to step-by-step instructions posted on the Internet. It also gives a clear description of how to choose the material, as well as what tools and fixtures you may need. One way or another, it is worth remembering that high-quality devices are a guarantee of your safety, so it may be better to shell out a small amount, but to purchase a proven model that is of high quality and comfort, than to waste your free time and not achieve the desired result.

Rating of the best paddles for kayaks and kayaks for 2022

two-piece

RST "Touring"

This item is for sea kayak. It is produced by the Free Wind company. The spindle is made of duralumin pipe D 16 T 30 x 1, and the blades are made of durable high molecular weight polyethylene. The model belongs to the category of touring. Weight - 1.2 kg. The blades have a special oblong shape with small slots to prevent water from running into the kayak and onto your hands.

The average cost is 2,900 rubles.

• various colors;
• multifunctional;
• lung;
• practical;
• long service life;
• inexpensive;
• the presence of slots on the blades.

• not detected.

RST "Classic"

The manufacturer is Free Wind, which produces high-quality and reliable products, including oars. The shaft of the model is made of a duralumin pipe, the blades are made of high-molecular polyethylene of decent quality. Their area is 3836 sq.cm. Product weight - 1.2 kg.The model is suitable for rafting on inflatable, plastic and frame kayaks, and is also designed for walking on lakes, rivers and reservoirs.

The structures are made up of two parts. Their length can be 240, 230, 220 or 200 cm. A push-button clamp is used for assembly. The forearm at the grip point has a profiled oval shape. In order for water to drain from the blades, the manufacturer provides a special PVC cuff.

The average cost is 3,200 rubles.

• convenient;
• lung;
• collapsible;
• a variety of shades;
• functional;
• pipe with anti-corrosion coating;
• the presence of a heat shrink tube;
• excellent combination of price and quality.

• not detected.

RST "Eco"

This is a functional model that is suitable for outdoor activities on water bodies, as well as on lakes and calm rivers. It belongs to the category of quality products, due to the use of high molecular weight polyethylene for the blades and duralumin tube for the pole. An anti-corrosion coating is applied to the surface of the pipe. The grip points are protected by a heat shrink tube.

The average cost is 3,200 rubles.

• the presence of a button lock;
• variety of oar lengths;
• there is a PVC cuff for water drainage;
• oval profiled fore-end;
• convenient;
• practical;
• reliable;
• lung;
• available in black and blue;
• long service life.

• not identified.

Three-piece

"Free wind"

The main purpose of this product is hiking. It consists of three sections, simple and easy to operate. The model is impact-resistant, which makes it possible to use it in long-term rafting on rivers of any complexity.When folded, it has small dimensions, which makes it possible to pack it in a kayak or place it inside a backpack or bag. The sides of the blades are made with a slight angular bend, and the presence of wavy grooves in the middle of the structure gives the paddle greater rigidity.

Devices are made of impact-resistant polypropylene. The forearm is made of a duralumin tube with an anti-corrosion coating, the diameter of which is 30 x 1 mm. The grip points are equipped with a heat shrink tube.

The average cost is 3,150 rubles.

• high quality of the materials used;
• excellent strength;
• comfort;
• functionality;
• light weight;
• the presence of an anti-corrosion coating;
• long service life.

• missing.

Taimen

This 2.4 meter collapsible model is very popular among kayakers. Compared to analogues, it has a slightly larger pipe diameter, which makes the product quite durable and reliable in operation. The paddle is designed for classic kayaks such as Salyut and Taimen. It is also suitable for light inflatable kayaks Burbot, Chub and Pike. The design features of the models are such that they can be installed both parallel to each other and at an angle of 90 degrees. This will help to overcome a strong headwind without spending a lot of strength and energy.

The main feature is that the forearm and blades are interchangeable with the old "time" versions. Sales managers offer customers to additionally purchase cuffs - water breaker to protect hands during hiking. Each kayak attachment requires two pairs of cuffs.

The average price is 2000 rubles.

• ease of use;
• compactness;
• ease of transportation;
• high assembly reliability;
• durability;
• universality;
• functionality;
• manufacturer's warranty.

• not detected.

Quadruple

ITIWIT

This is an excellent assistant for walking on the water surface or rafting on lakes, rivers, near the sea coast. This model is very popular among beginners. This is a fairly compact device with a case that is convenient to transport, as well as quick and easy to assemble. Assembled dimensions - 215 cm, folded - 57.2 x 17.5 x 11.5 cm. Fiberglass and polypropylene were used in the manufacture. The stem is made of aluminium. For storage, choose a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heating appliances.

The average cost is 2,499 rubles.

• light weight;
• ease of use;
• suitable for beginners
• comfortable;
• long service life;
• made from quality materials;
• two-year manufacturer's warranty;
• easy care (just rinse in clean water after use).

• not detected.

Packraft paddle

This model is suitable for walking along the calm surface of the river, as well as lakes on inflatable kayaks and packrafts. In the manufacture of the blades, impact-resistant polyethylene was used. Sectional elements are made of duralumin tubes with a diameter of 32 mm. The blades are equipped with special cuffs that prevent water from draining during rowing. The tubes are covered with an anodized composition, which increases their anti-corrosion properties. The connection is made by means of a push-button latch. Product length - 230 cm, weight - 0.85 kg.

The average price is 1,180 rubles.

• a significant angle of rotation of the blades;
• high assembly reliability;
• made of high quality materials;
• anti-corrosion coating;
• convenient push-button lock;
• low cost;
• safety.

• missing.

Asterisk+

A distinctive feature of this model is excellent strength and unique lightness. It is the perfect companion for packrafts and small light boats. The paddle has the following features:

• duralumin shaft;
• polyethylene symmetrical blade;
• splash guards;
• the shaft has a polymer coating in the grip area.

The paddle is available in lengths of 200, 210, 220 and 230 centimeters, which when folded is 57, 62, 67 and 72 cm, respectively. Thanks to the bright polymer coating, the device is perfectly visible both on the water and on the shore. Droppers prevent water from dripping off the blades.

The average price is 2,300 rubles.

• excellent buoyancy;
• convenient;
• versatility of use;
• does not sink;
• good anti-corrosion properties;
• safe;
• folding;
• light weight;
• the presence of splash protection;
• the possibility of manufacturing any length at the request of the customer.

• not identified.

Asymmetrical sprocket

This model is distinguished by high reliability, comfort, buoyancy and stylish appearance. It is available in 5 lengths:

1. 240 cm.
2. 230 cm.
3. 220 cm.
4. 210 cm.
5. 200 cm

The paddle is suitable for both small kayaks and packrafts. The grip zone is covered with a polymer coating, the shaft is duralumin, and the blades of the asymmetric type are made of polyethylene. The turning angle both to the right and to the left is 60 degrees, weight is 970 grams.

The average cost is 2,690 rubles.

• high assembly reliability;
• long service life;
• ease of transportation;
• comfortable to use;
• increased diameter of splash-proof cuffs;
• light weight;
• suitable for children;
• good combination of price and quality;
• does not sink both assembled and disassembled;
• polymer coating shaft.

• missing.

With oarlock

RusBoat 45

The main difference between this model and its “brothers” is that the blade is equipped with a hook, an oarlock appeared, and the pipe is divided into two compartments, which prevents the oar from sinking when falling into the water. The docking areas of the oarlock, as well as the bases, are reinforced with galvanized metal and made of aluminum. The paddles are suitable for both kayak and inflatable kayak.

The Time Trial company has launched the production of removable oarlocks, where the attachment points of the oars are moved to the side and up. This made it possible to increase their effectiveness when used on an inflatable kayak:

• paired models provide the opportunity to row longer, while not spending significant effort;
• if the fishermen are biting, then you can safely throw the oars and do the fighting;
• even a beginner can master the technique;
• contributes to the achievement of excellent results when rowing against strong oncoming gusts of wind.

Together with a set of oarlocks, pockets made of durable PVC for fastening, transforming oars and rings fixing guy lines are sold. High-strength aluminum alloy was used for the manufacture of key frames. The total weight of the kit is 650 grams.

There are certain nuances of fixing oarlocks. They are installed on the boat in an uninflated state. As soon as the boat is inflated, they are tightly fixed. Thanks to the braces, their installation can be adjusted in width and height.You can buy oarlocks both in specialized outlets and on the manufacturer's website by placing an order online.

The average price is 3,000 rubles.

• optimal length;
• light weight;
• comfort of operation;
• high quality;
• safety;
• long service life;
• functionality;
• universality;
• affordable cost;
• long-term manufacturer's warranty.

• not installed.

Conclusion

Those who prefer kayaking know how important it is to have a reliable two-bladed oar with you, thanks to which the watercraft moves forward by alternately immersing the blades from one side to the other. Leading manufacturers pay great attention to this accessory, trying to make it light, practical and compact.

Almost all goods are made from composite materials and hydrocarbon fibers, thanks to which the products have become light, but strong. Some models are made of aluminum alloy.

For professional sports, including decathlon, speed and results are important, therefore, special requirements are imposed on the material of manufacture, and therefore such products are quite expensive. As for amateur walks, you can purchase devices made of aluminum alloy.

Athletes prefer the duralumin product. It is considered the most reliable and durable, although it is slightly heavier than its counterparts in weight, but this is almost imperceptible. You can not be afraid that it will break at the most inopportune moment, and if it bends when it hits a solid object, then it can be simply leveled in a matter of minutes.

The most common are three-section designs that are easily packed into a backpack or shoulder bag, quickly assembled and disassembled, and also conveniently transported. They consist of three parts:

• central handle;
• two pieces of pipe with blades.

Fastening of parts is carried out with the help of high-quality latches. It also allows you to adjust the level of inclination of the shoulder blades, adjusting them to the individual characteristics of the person. The maximum length of the structure is 2.4 meters.