am buying a paddle and would like to know how long to get it

Hi, there are several different theories out there, here's two of them (first from www.c4waterman.com/): "What length paddle do I need?
Paddle length is important for technique, posture, and efficiency. If too long or short, it could cause joint and back injuries, and also not be efficient over long periods. The rule of thumb is to have a paddle "one shaka" (6-8 inches) over your height. Longer is not better and could even cause shoulder joint injury.
Your height plus 7 inches is the magic number."
Next (from www.standuppaddle.com.au): "The paddle should not be too long or short. An ideal paddle length would be when the paddle is standing vertically with the handle on the ground the base of the blade should be at eye level."
My first paddle was only 4" above my head & gave me a sore lower back. However, some SUPers like the short paddles for surfing. My current paddle is 9.5" over my head. C4 Waterman would say "too long"! standuppaddle.com.au would say "too short", 'cos the base of the blade is still an inch or two below my eye level with the handle on the ground. Go figure!!!
I like it (I surf 1-3' surf with it. Don't get much bigger stuff unfortunately here in Perth).
Woogie Marsh from KiaKaha paddles has good advice too.
Try a few out if you can.
--Mike

Thanks alot for the advice guys appreciate it

Tim, the timber piries paddles you were asking about are actually made by Piros that is on this forum I think. He had a very nice looking one at the comp on the weekend with the bent shaft design.