Paddle Buying Guide

My guide to help you chose a paddle, buy right and you will only need to buy once!

1. Paddle Length

• Adjustable vs. Fixed:
• Adjustable paddles are versatile, allowing you to change the length for different activities (surfing, touring, racing) or to suit multiple users.
• Fixed-length paddles are lighter and more efficient for serious paddlers who want maximum performance.
• Most 1-piece paddle come uncut. To correctly measure, cut and glue a paddle is a very simple process but if you have never done it become, it can be a nerve-racking experience!

2. Blade Material

The blade material affects the weight, stiffness, and durability of the paddle:

• Plastic/Nylon:
• Pros: Affordable and durable—great for beginners or recreational use.
• Cons: Heavier and less efficient due to flexibility.
• Fibreglass:
• Pros: Lightweight, moderately stiff, and good value for performance.
• Cons: Less efficient than carbon fibre.
• Carbon Fibre:
• Pros: Ultra-lightweight, very stiff, and delivers maximum power transfer—ideal for advanced paddlers.
• Cons: More expensive and less durable against impacts.
• Hybrid Materials: Some paddles combine fiberglass and carbon for a balance of weight, stiffness, and cost.

3. Shaft Material

• Aluminium:
• Pros: Budget-friendly and durable.
• Cons: Heavy and can feel cold in cooler conditions.
• Fibreglass: Lighter and more efficient than aluminium, suitable for mid-level paddlers.
• Carbon Fibre: Extremely lightweight and stiff, providing excellent performance and efficiency.

4. Blade Size, Shape & pitch of blade

• Blade Size:
• Smaller Blades: Better for smaller paddlers, longer distances, and high cadence paddling to reduce fatigue.
• Larger Blades: Provide more power per stroke—ideal for larger paddlers, surfing, or sprinting.

• Blade Shape:
  • Teardrop Shape: Wider at the bottom, providing a strong initial catch—good for power paddling.
  • Rectangular Shape: More evenly distributed power, easier on the body for long-distance paddling.
  • New revolutionary blade shapes are being revealed each season.
• Pitch:
  • Angle of blade off the shaft. This can be very personal to the paddlers as the pitch will need to suit the paddlers style and angle of paddle entry for the catch /initial entry to the water.

5. Paddle Weight

• Lighter paddles (carbon or hybrid) reduce fatigue, especially on long paddles or races.
• Heavier paddles (aluminium or plastic) are durable and budget-friendly but less efficient.
• Rule: Choose the lightest paddle you can afford, as weight plays a huge role in comfort and endurance.

6. Shaft Flexibility

• Stiff Shafts: Provide efficient power transfer but can strain joints during long sessions. Best for racing or high-performance paddling.
• More Flexible Shafts: Absorb impact and are gentler on shoulders, making them better for recreational and long-distance paddling.

7. Handle Grip

• T-Grip: Provides excellent control and is common for all-around use.
• Palm Grip: (most are palm grip)More comfortable for long paddles, especially in touring.

8. Intended Use

Match the paddle to your paddling activity:

• Recreational: Durable, adjustable paddles with mid-sized blades.
• Surfing: Shorter, strong paddles with smaller blades for manoeuvrability.
• Touring/Adventure: Lightweight, efficient paddles with larger blades for long-distance strokes.
• Racing: Stiff, lightweight paddles for maximum speed and efficiency.

9. Budget

• Entry-Level: Aluminium shaft with plastic/nylon blades—affordable but heavy.
• Mid-Range: Fiberglass or hybrid paddles—lighter and more efficient.
• High-End: Full carbon fibre paddles—best for performance and long-term use.

10. Adjustability and Portability

• 2-Piece or 3-Piece Paddles: Easy to pack and transport—ideal for travel or inflatable SUP users.
• Quick-Release Clamps: Ensure smooth adjustments without slipping (only if tightened correctly).

11. Brand Reputation and Reviews

• Look for well-known paddle brands with positive reviews.  My recommendation are Blackfish Paddles.  I have used many, many paddles over the decades and for me, the balance of performance, quality, looks, durability means they are worth every penny!  The Blackfish Andaman that I used to paddle around the entire UK coastline has done over 10,000km and still look as good as the day Blackfish gave it me.

BUY a NEW ANDAMAN paddle

• Seek recommendations from SUP communities or experienced paddlers.

Summary

The ideal paddle balances weight, performance, and cost for your needs. If you’re serious about SUP, a lightweight carbon fibre paddle with the right blade size will greatly enhance your experience. For recreational paddling, an adjustable fiberglass or hybrid paddle offers versatility and comfort without breaking the bank.

Consider how often you paddle, what style you enjoy, and your budget to make the best choice!

Buy Blackfish Paddles