Pathfinder Canoe Paddle

Sizing Your Recreational Paddle

Regardless of the model of the straight or bent shaft paddle you have selected, the overall length should be determined by the shaft length from the top of the grip to the throat of the paddle.

The following formula applies: the shaft length should equal the distance from one shoulder to the water line of the canoe. This will allow you to paddle below your eyes with your upper hand while keeping your lower hand close to the throat.

To determine the approximate length, sit erect on a flat hard chair or the floor and measure the distance from the surface to your chin. Add 6” for the approximate distance the canoe seat would be from the waterline. Thus, a person whose chin-to-chair measurement is 26” would add 6” to arrive at a 32” shaft length. Looking at the specifications of our various models, you will find that you would probably use a 50” Touring Bent Shaft, a 54” Voyageur, or a 56” Chieftain. A one- or two-inch variation would not have much effect on usage, so try to find the closest shaft length for the model chosen. Remember to consider that canoe seat heights vary, as might a ‘comfort range’ that you might feel more suited to.