What length should my paddle be?
The correct paddle length makes a big difference in whether you stand correctly on your board and whether you get maximum benefit from your efforts. A shorter paddle will make your stroke too short, your stance cramped and you won't use the full size of the blade in the water, thus not getting full propulsion.
Where you use the paddle has an impact on how long, what flex and blade size you normally want. Roughly speaking, you have two extremes. You have areas where you want fast acceleration (e.g. waves and sprints). Here you would normally look for a relatively large blade (you want high torque), stiff shaft (you want direct power transfer) and a slightly shorter shaft (you want fast paddle stroke).
The other extreme is long distance where you strive for a paddle with (smaller blade for less torque and thus less strain on the body), Moderate flex shaft (maximum utilization of the flex and less strain on the body). The shaft length must be extended if you want a longer paddle stroke.
Between these two extremes, there are a number of nuances you can choose from, for example, if you are a woman or junior with smaller hands where you can get a smaller diameter shaft. You may also have a preference for a stiffer shaft based on your height, as a taller person will need a taller shaft and thus relatively due to the extra length, the shaft will feel softer than if the shaft was ½ meter shorter. In addition to these, all brands have their own details that can make a difference for you. For example, handles are very different from brand to brand. In addition, the blade itself is also available in many different designs, either to optimize against waves with a wide blade or a more all-round shape.
Starboard has created this overview that illustrates these differences in this graph, which is for those who are starting to explore the different disciplines within SUP. The actual flex indication below is Starboard's own shaft names, but can be used as a reference against other brands.
At One Open Sky, we have a huge selection and definitely a paddle just for you. And we are ready to help either in the stores or by phone 9712 2965 or email info@oneopensky.dk
If you buy a fixed paddle that needs to be cut to size - you can see how HERE.
