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How to Choose a Kayak Paddle | $100 vs $500 Paddles
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- čas přidán 10. 08. 2024
- Is a $500 paddle REALLY worth it? Can you get by with a $100 paddle? These are very common questions I'm asked, so in this video I'm going through the pros and cons of each to help you learn how to choose a kayak paddle that's right for you.
Please note that around 0:36 I say that the paddle has a fiberglass shaft, when in fact it has a carbon shaft. Likewise, there is some confusion about upgrading blades on the Whiskey/Tango series - please refer to the Aqua-Bound website for full specs. Apologies!
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I'd love to see more videos about budget options regarding gear. Not just about what's best but what's best within certain price ranges. I'm passionate about paddling but I don't make the kind of money where spending $500 on a paddle is even an option no matter how great it may be. Helpful hints for those of us pushing our Craigslist boats around with aluminum paddles would be much welcomed!
Sounds good! I'm going to be doing a bunch of product reviews this spring and summer of all types of gear... from the cheapest to the most expensive. Stay tuned.
A real upgrade is going from the $40 paddle the shop gave you as a throw-in to the $100 level. That's a night-and-day difference for very little money. Diminishing returns kick in beyond that. I'm sure a touring kayaker who just paddles all day can justify going right to the top of the line. But if you're fishing, sightseeing, taking pictures or just casually poking around, you probably won't notice much of a difference. You might want to spend that $400 upgrade money on great fishing gear, a nice waterproof camera, or a quality, well fitted PFD that you'll be glad to wear all day. A feather-light paddle is kind of useless for fishing, because it'll blow off your lap in the slightest breeze when you're trying to fish.
I agree -- Ken should have extended his discussion more to the even lower priced paddles: aluminum shaft, plastic blades.
The law of diminishing returns is in every hobby. I often find upper mid range products to be the sweet spot for most people. You'll have something that you love to use and it's usually durable enough to last forever. That said I think a $150 paddle would make 90% of people very happy. Ultra high end stuff is typically very light, a little less durable and can really only be taken advantage of by an elite athlete. Always remember anything you buy can be lost, stolen or broken so don't spend more than you're comfortable with repurchasing.
I bought a kayak paddle at a thrift store for $3. It was that purchase that convinced me to go buy a kayak....Which I did at a K-mart that was closing. I got 2 10 foot pelican kayaks for $230 That was awesome but then I had to buy another paddle. Instead of that, I gave one of the kayaks to my brother and said, "Go buy yourself a paddle." So now I had a cheap paddle and kayak AND someone to go kayaking with me! Woohoo! 😁
At 62 and a newbie to the sport of canoe paddling I'll stick with my $70 Ascend kayak paddle 250cm moving a new someday this fall an Old Town Sportsman Solo !!!
Over the last three or four summers, I’ve used all the combinations below $200. The aluminum and plastic freebies that came with my intex are actually decent. The shafts don’t rattle, they’re comfortable. Heavy in comparison but not too heavy to use. Until recently my younger daughter preferred to use it. My older daughter got a $50 model last summer that was barely an upgrade. Better blades, doesn’t rattle and lighter than the freebies. Same time frame, younger daughter got 190cm Perception small bladed paddle. Good for an 11 year old, right? Meh. She took over the freebie and didn’t look back. (The perception is my emergency paddle now.) This year she got a Quest Vapor. I’m totally impressed with it and it’s my recommendation for a budget paddle that’s still good. $80 at Dicks. Absolutely amazing improvement for her, in every regard. It’s got an adjustable ferrule that allows for different lengths. It’ll literally grow with her. The blade isn’t as tough as other ones but holds up well. Last year I got an aqua bound sting ray hybrid. Light, stiff and about $170. Unfortunately, it was too long for me. I’m short. It’s 230cm. My kayak sits low. It’s still 230cm. My yak is narrower than most recent. Yeah…still 230. So, I got the manta ray carbon shaft ($175 on sale) with adjustable length. I’m playing between 210-215. It’s perfect for me. I know the blades are durable, it’s crazy light, the proper length, blade size and geometry are equating to much better performance. While I can agree the $400+ paddles might be better, diminishing returns has definitely kicked in. Took a very nice Carlisle for a drive. Twice as much as my new one. Being charitable, I’d say 10% better. I really want to test drive a whiskey or similar paddle. But, tbh, the Quest Vapor is good enough for my needs. I love my Manta Ray but I can’t say it’s worth paying twice as much. I had the cash and wanted to improve my ride. No regrets! And the used market is a good way to score good deals!
PS - tried a bent shaft and liked it for straight out paddling. Not for turns, sweeps, back-paddling etc. it turns out I slide my hands…a LOT. I could probably relearn those techniques but, I’m an old dog and my style works with straight shafts. The benefits don’t outweigh my aversion to change. (Insert grumpy old man sounds)
Great vid. Best upgrade I did was from a $150 rec paddle to a RPC3 full carbon wing paddle.
Fantastic informative presentation , very much enjoying all your videos, as a beginner kayaker, thank you for what you do, all the very best sir, I have decided on the Aqua Bound Sting Ray Hybrid 2 piece.
I have a Werner Ikelos as an high-angle euro-style touring paddle and I love it. Fully worth the $400 investment. Now I’m looking to get into the racing / wing paddle category which is totally different level and it’s more complicated to make the right choice as you have more variants to factor in like shaft flex, blade shape, blade size and blade twist. Btw keep up the good work, this channel is amazing!
That's a nice paddle! Wing paddles are definitely a different group altogether. Last time I used one I almost flipped a number of times by inadvertently catching water when I wasn't paying attention. Trickier paddle to use, but the power is undeniable! Thanks for the good words on the channel! I'm enjoying it.
Thoughtful comment.
I am going to solicit for Greenland Paddles.
I have and really swore by my Werner Carbon Paddle due the weight and stiffness/power. But, after building a Greenland Paddle out of Red Cedar and paddling a couple of all day trips with both paddles with me, the Greenland Paddle definitely won between the two.
>>Weight weight weight. The Greenland Paddle is even lighter.
>>Stiffness/Power: I will say that the bladed paddle provided more power the difference was minor.
I’m in the Greenland Paddle camp.
Thanks for the input Doug, I don't have too much experience with them myself, but I can see why they are so loved!
Yep, that twisted toy paddle is just going to be a liability in a tough sea. He seemed at a lost when it came to blade design and physics.
Power comes from the paddler, not the blade. Blade design is about losses, stability and holding "power" (position in the flow). Dihedral is a loss and unnecessary for experienced paddlers though helpful anti flutter stability for beginners. Increased area reduces loss and area distribution can be optimised for minimal induced loss as a function of depth and perimeter length. Asymetric blades concentrate the area closer to the centre line of the kayak, reducing turning moment and thereby improving efficiency (this is big). I am not going to touch wing blades though. That particular more expensive paddle has a reasonable area distribution away from the surface where losses are high. Many expensive options are not like that though and simply rely on area. Area distribution can get the same holding power with less area which translates to less weight. The Greenland blade is a high aspect lifting surface, very efficient when the flow is across the blade, rolling, surfing, sculling etc. It is also very versatile shifting grip from one end to the other improving leverage for support, turning etc. These are just the obvious things. It's also not a bad defensive deterrent, having a small contact area with which a traditional hunter might inflict damage and pain to save himself from a large marine predator.
@@kenwebster5053 you sir, are a wing nut.
@@thecount1001and you are my hero!!! 😎
I enjoyed your video comparing the two paddles. However, you may want to update the video. The $149 Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Hybrid paddle has a 100% carbon shaft according to their website. I could be incorrect, but I just purchased one. There is a Sting Ray fiberglass paddle, but it is not the hybrid and is closer to the $110 range (yellow blades in the picture on their website). If I am wrong, please disregard and accept my sincere apology.
Hey Jeff. Well caught. The Sting Ray Hybrid does have a carbon shaft. The Sting Ray 'Fibreglass' model is the one with a fibreglass shaft. It retails for $109.
In my opinion, any serieus paddler should buy the best paddle you can effort. I owned and used several paddles, and there is a huge difference between them. Just like you said, the paddle is your connection to the water. I love a full carbon paddle with an ergonomic shaft, not too long and big blades (700cm2). (It even works perfect with touring and covering long distances).
great video!!
I recently got the AQUA BOUND Manta Ray Carbon 2-Piece Kayak Paddle for $200, that's also a great paddle, haven't regretted it at all.
That's a beauty paddle! Good choice!
just wanted your thoughts on pushing on the forward stroke of the paddle instead of pulling. I switched a number of years ago, and the difference is amazing. Takes time to break the habit of always pulling, like with a canoe paddle, but well worth it for me.
This was too funny. I had just finished buying a 507$ (after taxes & shipping) for a corryvreckan carbon bent shaft paddle by werner. I have been paddling for about 5 years, and yes the better the paddle makes a difference
Nice one, Jeremy! Enjoy your new paddle...I think you're going to love it!
Thanks for the video....great info. I have a Bending Branches Whisper paddle($60) with my $400 Kayak, because of budget....someday I would love to upgrade both....until then my current “tools” will get me on the water...Have a great Day!!
Getting out on the water is the most important thing at the end of the day! Happy paddling!
i got my SOT pelican i got on clearance for 150 and my 40 dollar walmart paddle and does me just fine 👌
I've bought a number of expensive paddles used from other paddlers who changed what they were using. And I've give the most expensive paddle I've bought to a close paddling friend. $400 paddles can be found for $100 from time to time.
So true, Frank. The used market is huge and if you just keep checking around, it's amazing what you'll find!
I’ve bought literally my whole Kayak equipment used and i’ve managed to get a fiberglass touring kayak combined with a Carbon Fiber Paddle for literally half the price of a new Fiberglass Kayak. The most surprising thing is that most of the used gear feels almost new because people use it 2-3 times a year.
Nice paddles! Every advantage of gear delivers advantage of endurance, final results of when and in which condition will you end your journey.
Better and simple.
Very true that premium paddles please even this cheapskate. Big shops sell discolored or discontinued top grade paddles at fractional prices, especially off season. I got an all carbon one with gross yellow splotches that normalized with use, and it's energetic twang remains a sensual joy to use.
My love life needs this twang.
Thank You 🙏, I’ve watched Your videos before, always very informative.Pls keep doing what You’re doing “A”!
Thanks William! I appreciate that!
Me looking at this video while owning a 30 dollar paddle and a kayak worth around 400 on it’s way... Anyways, PaddleTV videos are always awesome. Thanks for a great video!
Haha! Well Colin, like we said, you can always upgrade later! You don't know what you like until you try it :)
Yep, I actually quite like the stuff I have right now, so maybe I’ll stick with it for a while and maybe get a better paddle next year or something. Thanks for all the great videos! :)
@@collinm.2408 Thanks so much for watching! Happy paddling :)
Thanks so much, PaddleTV! :)
I went from the pelican Poseidon to the aqua bound tango bent paddle, and its 100% worth that extra cost. I have arthritis is my right hand and I dont have to constantly stop. I paddle between 2-6 hrs depending on the day.
Werner paddles have been worth every penny to me.
I just use the stock paddle. It's heavy but I need the exercise! 😅
Hey Ken, I have been enjoying your vids and I would like to ask you a question. I'm an older guy and I would like to get into kayaking for fishing. I'm want a kayak that will be the most stable in the water , Any advice please
I would definitely recommend a sit-on-top kayak. Which one really depends on your budget. There are a TON of great sit-on-top fishing kayaks to choose from, and most of them are very stable, comfortable, easy to get onto and out of, and great for fishing. The first ones that pop to mind are the Bonafide SS127, the Wilderness Systems Tarpon, the Old Town Predator, the Native Watercraft Falcon 11...
i want a bent shaft but the cost is stopping me but maybe in the future right now im just starting out and need other stuff first!
If you are a kayak fisherman or sit on top kayaker the Bending Branches Angler Ace with a carbon shaft and carbon reinforced nylon blades hits the price/performance sweet spot at $199.
Yup. Great paddle for the money!
I would argue length & blade shape are more important than price. Kind of surprised you didn't touch on this...
You're absolutely right... but length and blade size don't have an impact on price. This video is all about the difference between a $100 and $500 paddle. Once you decide on how much you want to spend, the next big questions are length and blade size.
you have the nicest shirts !..😎😎 if you have the money and paddle a lot get the best. if you don't have the money that solves your problem. if you have the money and are stingy then you know what to do. if you paddle a lot and want to upgrade but don't have the money you are in a bind. get a used one which by the way they are selling for almost the same as new... thanks for the vid.!!! i enjoy your shirts lol
Ha! Thanks. I have NRS to thank for the shirts, not my personal sense of style. ;)
@@PaddleTV good taste NRS!
Lol my trolling motor is my connection to the water lol. The paddles are more of an insurance policy
This was a great comparison. However I wished this would have included the straight carbon fiber paddle as well. I was considering the hybid like you show here but the Carbon one is just about $50 more. I am not that familiar with it as I'm still trying to learn about them. And now seeing your comparison here I realized that I wasn't as aware as I thought I was about materials. For example the difference between these two blades in this video. Appreciate this video very much.
i have the Manta ray hybrid and that is carbon shaft-i think all the hybrids are carbon shaft
Is there much difference in paddling technique between bent shaft and straight? The blades on the two paddles look really different? Like one for shallow angle style and the other for a high angle style?
Got sting ray hybrid 230
Question Ken my wife and I been renting kayaks. We have now bought our own tarpon 120s. I'm 5.10 I think I want a aqua bound manta ray in a 240cm. Any advice sir.
Congrats! I think you'll really enjoy those boats. I think that's a great paddle choice, and the appropriate length for the Tarpon. I would recommend upgrading from the aluminum shaft to the fibreglass shaft, or even better, the hybrid aquabound.com/products/manta-ray-hybrid-2-piece-posi-lok. Of course, if you really want to spoil yourself, the carbon version is very nice, and not too much more expensive - aquabound.com/products/manta-ray-carbon-2-piece-posi-lok. I would also recommend spending the $10 upgrade for the Posi-Lock ferrule. It removes virtually any play from the 2-piece paddles.
@@PaddleTV thank you sir ended up getting the eagle ray in carbon.
You also have paddles in between, mine was €250,-. I paddle in spring, summer and autumn with good weather for a few hours. A paddle of €500,- would be overkill for me.
I agree... a $500 paddle is overkill for most people. There are some great paddle at half the price.
Hi I am 5’4” I have a 28” beam sit in and 34” sit on top. I would like to add 22” stellar intrepid sit in 18 foot kayak. Can I use 1 paddle for all 3 kayak and am interested in. Werner bent shaft Cyprus but what size shaft should I use 220 or 215 I have average reach not too long not too short for my height.
You could use the same paddle... but it won't be ideal for all those kayaks. A 210 - 215 cm paddle would be ideal for the 22" wide Stellar, but ideally you'd want something around 230 cm for the sit on top kayak. If you do get a single paddle, I would recommend a 220cm paddle. Something to keep in mind is that some paddles 'telescope' to offer a range of lengths. Wilderness Systems 'Apex' provides 20cm of variance! I'm sure there are others out there that do the same.
In my opinion an important point to mention is that expensive (carbon) paddles are often less durable and don't like shocks.
So if I am going for river tour with some friends and children the focus will more be on having a good time, camping and campfires. For such a tour a (heavy) aluminium/plastic paddle might be just the right thing, as rough treating will not harm it. If you l8ke you can even give it to the kids to build a shelter with. No problem!
Whilst if I am going for a seakajaking tour with my paddle buddies I would always take a light weight carbon paddle.
I'm very happy with my $180 paddle (stingray). I have a $60 paddle and it sucks. Over $200 and I think you get rapidly diminishing value for your money.
I tried a greenland paddle and didn't like it - lots of flutter/bubbles and just can't accelerate when you want to. I think greenland people bend over backwards to try to like those paddles because they're "traditional" and made of wood.
The difference between those paddles doesn't justify the huge cost difference for the average paddlers. The real gap is between cheap plastic paddles and fiberglas paddles. There you can definitely feel a huge difference and I definitely recommend the upgrade
you said the 100 dollar paddle is fiberglass shaft but the aquabound website says its a carbon fiber shaft.
You're right. My mistake!
This is a great comparison video but you aren't saying anything about how to choose.
I’m small, bent shafts just don’t work for me.
Hey Sue, some brands also offer a small shaft, which makes a big difference. Check with your local shop, they often do demo days where you can try all the options too!
Didn't watch the video yet, but if your kayak is longer than an hour, yes it worth it
I usually measure my kayak in feet not hours but okay 😛🤭
@@Leo-fv5gq LMAO
Good advice to which I would only add one caveat: Learn how to paddle properly and you will easily improve your enjoyment of paddling way more than by spending a lot of money on gear your skill level won't let you use properly. In other words ya can't buy your way to nirvana you have to pay your dues!
I'm interested in a discussion on just how beneficial are the (what i call) fully asymmetrical blades vs fully symmetrical blades.
One advantage of greenland paddles over euro paddles is that they are fully symmetrical. They can be held any 1 of 4 ways: left or right and up or down. Euro paddles are so asymmetrical they can be held 1 correct way and 3 incorrect ways. (I ignore any other supposed advantage of greenland paddles as irrelevant to my point.)
So why is it that the only fully symmetrical euro paddles are the very cheap ones? Why are there no performance paddles, with short and wide blades, that can be used left or right and up or down? There are plenty of high-quality symmetrical canoe blades but not kayak blades?
100$ paddle vs 500$
me: 20$ paddle
Bloke its wurfit
Title: $100 v $500
Reality: $150 vs $400
Wow Thanks for pointing that out. Your attention to detail is incredible and thanks for saving us all.
Sales man alert !!!!!!!!
Ok. Not sure what I'm selling...
Thanks for sharing. Please re-title the video to "My opinions about two Aquabond paddles"