Size of paddle - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

Irishman · 04-14-2013, 10:01 PM

I have a Malibu xfactor and using a 230cm Werner paddle that I bought with the yak at OEX. I noticed that while paddling I am inadvertently soaking myself. Two days in a row where I have been soaked and cold. It might have to do with the wind we have had this weekend, not sure. Yesterday was Shelter Isalnd, today Glorietta bay and under Corondo bridge. Will a longer paddle mean less water coming on board??

Appreciate the feedback

JeffB · 04-14-2013, 10:51 PM

You need to put drip rings at each end of it. They keep the water from running down the paddle handle all over you legs. Here is what I'm talking about.

http://www.paddlerscove.com/kayak-pa...-branches.aspx

tacklebox · 04-15-2013, 07:30 AM

Yea, I have the drip rings too and they help. You still get a little wet, at least I do, on your knees/legs.
Maybe scotch gard your pants so the water beads off? I was thinking of doing that.

taggermike · 04-15-2013, 09:46 AM

Some water will always end up in your lap, but a longer paddle can help. A longer paddle will allow you to use a lower angle paddleing stroke. Lower angle=less water running down the shaft. Mike.

Irishman · 04-15-2013, 07:43 PM

Thanks guys, I have the drip rings, will see if I can get some larger ones than what came with the paddle

PE.rider · 04-16-2013, 01:03 AM

Most paddles have drip rings on both ends, and each paddler has their own preference as to where placement is ideal to avoid water drip. Some, like it at the edges by the throat of the paddle, and others right by their hand grip areas.

For myself, I've always positioned them several inches up ... or closer up the shaft as you move inwards, but never more than 5 inches. Depending on your kayak width, you can make your adjustments, but the most important thing to consider is to not paddle too deeply.

If you getting winded paddling, then chances are you are sinking the paddle too deeply into the water. As long as you immerse the paddle from tip to throat and maintain a rhythm and stride, you will be moving across the water in a decent pace.

If this works for you, then you can thank my summer camp counselor from the Catskills when I was a wee laddie.

04-14-2013, 10:01 PM	#1
Irishman Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2013 Posts: 306	Size of paddle I have a Malibu xfactor and using a 230cm Werner paddle that I bought with the yak at OEX. I noticed that while paddling I am inadvertently soaking myself. Two days in a row where I have been soaked and cold. It might have to do with the wind we have had this weekend, not sure. Yesterday was Shelter Isalnd, today Glorietta bay and under Corondo bridge. Will a longer paddle mean less water coming on board?? Appreciate the feedback

04-14-2013, 10:51 PM	#2
JeffB Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: La Jolla Posts: 1,216	You need to put drip rings at each end of it. They keep the water from running down the paddle handle all over you legs. Here is what I'm talking about. http://www.paddlerscove.com/kayak-pa...-branches.aspx __________________ If you're looking for me I'm

04-15-2013, 07:30 AM	#3
tacklebox I got gas! Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Mission Viejo Posts: 159	Yea, I have the drip rings too and they help. You still get a little wet, at least I do, on your knees/legs. Maybe scotch gard your pants so the water beads off? I was thinking of doing that. __________________ TODAY WAS A GOOD DAY

04-15-2013, 09:46 AM	#4
taggermike Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Chula Vista Posts: 1,589	Some water will always end up in your lap, but a longer paddle can help. A longer paddle will allow you to use a lower angle paddleing stroke. Lower angle=less water running down the shaft. Mike.

04-15-2013, 07:43 PM	#5
Irishman Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2013 Posts: 306	Thanks guys, I have the drip rings, will see if I can get some larger ones than what came with the paddle

04-16-2013, 01:03 AM	#6
PE.rider Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: OC, CA Posts: 234	Most paddles have drip rings on both ends, and each paddler has their own preference as to where placement is ideal to avoid water drip. Some, like it at the edges by the throat of the paddle, and others right by their hand grip areas. For myself, I've always positioned them several inches up ... or closer up the shaft as you move inwards, but never more than 5 inches. Depending on your kayak width, you can make your adjustments, but the most important thing to consider is to not paddle too deeply. If you getting winded paddling, then chances are you are sinking the paddle too deeply into the water. As long as you immerse the paddle from tip to throat and maintain a rhythm and stride, you will be moving across the water in a decent pace. If this works for you, then you can thank my summer camp counselor from the Catskills when I was a wee laddie.