Kayaking is one of the best adventurous sports to enjoy in warm weather. So, investing in a kayak is a mind blowing idea. But kayaks need paddles to steer them through water. So, you may wonder: do kayaks come with paddles?
Mostly, new kayaks don’t come with paddles and you’ll have to purchase the paddles separately. When purchasing a paddle to move your kayak, ensure you look for the features like length, width, and weight. This way you can choose the right paddle to enjoy kayaking. Let’s explore all that you should know when investing in a kayak or a paddle for it!
Do New Kayaks Come With Paddles?
No, new kayaks don’t come with paddles and you’ll have to purchase them separately. Remember, different kayak types need a different paddle to steer them in water. So, it’s necessary to deeply observe the essential features that your paddle should have.
Only this way you can properly align the steering device with your kayak. It may be a good thing for some users that new kayaks come without paddles. It’s due to the fact that different paddles suit different users. So, you can purchase your specified paddle separately from the market.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Paddle for Kayaking?
Kayak paddles come in different sizes, weight, blade type, and shaft shapes. Depending upon the kayak type, you’ll have to deeply diagnose all these features in detail. Let’s see how to make an informed decision based on these exceptional features;
Length:
Paddles of kayaks come in different sizes but you should choose the one that suits your paddling style. Ensure your choose a paddle that weighs moderately and doesn’t makes your tires when kayaking. Usually, a paddle is good for you if it’s long enough that you stand on the kayak and can easily grip the paddle from the top.
Materials:
Kayak paddles are made with different materials and choosing the right material is necessary to land that material which is durable. Carbon and fiberglass materials are great for the paddle shaft. Similarly, the blades also come in plastic, fiberglass, and carbon materials. Test different materials and select the one that suits you well depending upon the environmental conditions of your area.
Blade Size and Shape:
Depending upon your rowing style, you’ll have to choose the right sized and shaped blade for you. Typically, shorter but wider blades are great for high angle rowers. While a thin and long blade is good for low angle rowers. It’s good to see the rhythm and shape of different paddles and then choose the one that’s right for you.
Shaft Shape:
Kayak paddle shafts come in different styles that suit different users. Two major types are straight and bent bent shaft paddles. Straight shafts are most common and are exactly straight and plain. While bent shafts are bent for stronger steering strokes. These are ideal for the users who kayak for a longer time. So, select the right shape for you that fits well to your kayaking ventures.
Adjustability:
Mostly, kayaks shafts have an adjustable feature. It helps to adjust the paddle according to the situation of kayaking. Typically, kayakers love 60° angle for paddle on normal water, except whitewater. For whitewater, 30°-45° is the most loved and used kayaking angle. So, look for this feature according to your kayaking style and situation.
Different Types Of Kayak Paddles
Kayaks paddles come in two major types, i.e., whitewater kayaks paddles and recreational kayak paddles.
As whitewater kayakers need to kayak quickly, so whitewater kayaking shafts are made for power and durability. These are capable of withstanding the hurdles like fallen trees, rocks, or boulders.
Recreational paddles are the most commonly used type. They have a Euro style blade and have length between 210-260 cm.
How To Choose The Right Paddle For Your Kayak?
Kayaks come in different shapes, styles, blade type, length, weight, and adjustable features. All these factors affect the overall kayaking experience. When testing different kayaking paddle shafts, it’s good to deeply diagnose all these features. Only then one can choose the right paddle for his kayak.
Do Kayak Paddles Make a Difference?
Yes kayak paddles make a great difference on your overall kayaking experience, efficiency, and performance. So, it’s important to choose the right kayak type for your kayaking. Consider the length, weight, width, and blade type of the shaft when purchasing it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, do kayaks come with paddles? No, new kayaks don’t come with paddles. It’s due to certain factors that retailers don’t include the paddle in their package of kayak. So, they don’t include the paddle to their offer for kayaks. You’ll have to purchase the shaft separately to enjoy your kayaking venture. Always look for the size, weight, material, and blade type when purchasing a paddle.
FAQs
What is the fastest kayak to paddle?
Surf ski’s, racing, and flyak kayaks are the fastest kayak to paddle. Kayaking with such a paddle can go up to 20.2 mph. However, the average kayaking speed is 3-4 mph.