Kayak Paddle Length - How to Pick, relative to your height

Issue
Cuerpo

This quick writeup provides some info as to what y'all's paddle's length should be.

After going kayaking on the river every week for a while, I've noticed that I've been wanting a longer paddle. I want my strokes to be longer and I want to be able to put more force into each, without having to switch sides all the time. I'm 6' and decided to move from a 86" to a 95" paddle - I'll keep y'all posted how it goes!

Meanwhile, here is the reference table I've used to make the decision.

how to determine kayak paddle length based on your height and torso length

For completeness, I'm reproducing the approximation method/reference, although it didn't give me the measurement I wanted:

quick and dirty way to measure paddle lengthquick and dirty way to measure paddle length

And here is an (unused) reference for paddle length relative to the boat width:

reference for paddle length relative to the boat width

The appropriate kayak paddle length depends significantly on the paddler's rowing style and preference. For a low-angle paddling style, typically used for relaxed, long-distance paddling, a longer paddle is preferred as it provides a more efficient stroke with less fatigue. Conversely, a high-angle paddling style, often utilized in more aggressive, faster paddling, such as in whitewater kayaking or racing, benefits from a shorter paddle, which allows for quicker, more powerful strokes.

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