Hi Guys and Gals

I recenctly purchased a new 12'6" Glide and got a good deal on a carbon Naish paddle to go with it today. What happened was a dude bought it, cut to length (way longer than I need) then bought it back that week to swap it for a bigger blade. Long story short I have to decide on a length to make the paddle.

I had a good chat with the store owner and he is quite helpfull but just want to hear what some of you have to say about paddle length. Im under the impression that a touring paddle should be longer than normal? Upto were the top of my hand sits if I hold my arm right up? Yay or nay??? Keeping in mind the 12'6 sits out of the water alot more than my 10' Fly.

Any comments or opinions would be greatly appreciated
Cheers!

There's no right or wrong answer but most will agree that between 6" and 12" over head is the range.. and I would suggest cutting it at about 10" overhead to start with.. No less.. The 12'6" Glide is a very thick board.. btw.. How tall are you? .. Also.. Where are you? .. Borrowing an adjustable to try before cutting might be a good idea.

DJ

Hi Shayne,

I tend to agree with DJ. We worked on about a shaka above your head for ages and that works well for recreational paddling. If the Naish is tall, an extra inch won't hurt (~10in).

It's easy to cut a shaft smaller, hard to extend. Recreational paddling tends to be a lazy stroke with less back being used hence the longer shaft as you stay more upright. For racing or surfing, more leverage is gained by shortening the shaft, this allows you to run a higher cadence and gives you more control, it also takes a little more flex out of the paddle.

If you cut it too short, the blade will not be able to be fully immersed in the water throughout the stroke and you will cavitate (allow air down behind the blade) the blade on every stroke which is inefficient (and noisy). You can stoop a little lower and really get your back into it to prevent this, but for other than racing this will be less comfortable.

Hope this helps,

DM