Apart from your kayak, a paddle has a significant impact on your performance on the water. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the best kayak paddle, most notably paddle length, materials, and blade and shaft choice. Buying the best kayak paddle, however, once you’ve determined your needs, can be a tricky task owing to the plethora of options available. But we’ve done the homework for you and bring you the lowdown on the 3 best kayak paddles to help you navigate the waters with ease!
SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle
The SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle is in a league in its own with its lightweight, feathered blade design that allows you to smoothly maneuver through the waters. Measuring 2.5 x 7 x 50.2 inches, and tipping the scales at an impressive 2.2 lbs, the X-Treme II Kayak Paddle is a joy to haul around on your adventures, and features a two-piece construction that makes it easy to store.
Apart from its robust construction, the blade X-Treme II Kayak Paddle by SeaSense can be locked in three different positions, making it easy to adjust the feathering on the go. Adding to this, it is fitted with adjustable drip guards, which collectively prevent water from running down the shaft and into your kayak.
The 96 inch SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle also features a support ridge for a superior grip. Crafted from robust aluminum, the X-Treme II paddle is a great choice for both novice and seasoned kayakers, and should serve you well for years to come.
Pros:
- Made from high quality aluminum
- Support grip or excellent grip
- Three blade locking positions
- Lightweight at just 2.2 lbs
- Feathered blades
Cons:
- May not be a good fit for kayakers with longer hands
Leader Accessories Marine Aluminum Kayak Paddles
One of the noteworthy features of the Leader Accessories Kayak Paddles is that they can be ordered in a choice of five exciting colors – black, blue, orange, white and yellow. Additionally, they are available in two different sizes – 87 inches and 96 inches, so regardless of what color or size kayak you own, there’s a perfect fit for you!
Crafted from robust aluminum, the Leaderboard Accessories Kayak Paddle boasts lightweight construction, and is fitted with two 18.5” x 7.5” blades, which improves overall efficiency in the water. The blades can be feathered 60 degrees for excellent right and left hand control, and reduced wind resistance for the blade that’s out of the water.
Furthermore, its two piece design makes it easy to take apart the paddle after your time well spent kayaking. The kayak paddle by Leaderboard Accessories also features rubberized hand grips, an enforced push button connection, and three locking positions for a reliable and effective connection.
The package includes two paddles, which lock together to form a single unit. If you’re looking for a kayak paddle that functions well, is easy to adjust and take apart, the Kayak Paddle range by Leaderboard Accessories is worth a second look.
Pros:
- Three locking positions
- Lightweight, molded plastic blades
- Available in two different sizes and five colors
- Feathered blade design
- Two piece aluminum construction
Cons:
- Grips could use a little more cushion
- Robust construction but may be a bit heavy for some kayakers
Naviskin Kayak Paddle
The Naviskin Kayak Paddle features two piece construction for easy storage, and can be had in a choice of five colors – black, yellow, blue, orange and white. The paddle measures 86 inches, and is fitted with feathered blades, which measure 18.5” x 7.5” each.
Crafted from corrosion resistant aluminum, the Naviskin Kayak Paddle is fitted with a high impact handle, and weighs just 2.91 pounds, making it easier to travel longer distances with less effort. Adding to this, this lightweight, and highly durable kayak paddle can be locked into three positions., making it easy to adjust the feathering on the fly.
The Naviskin Kayak Paddle is a great choice for recreational kayaking including short trips, fishing, exercise and shore exploration given its aluminum construction. Its length of 87 inches (220 cm) makes it a great choice for paddlers with heights between 5 feet to over 6 feet tall.
The plastic-made blades of the Naviskin Kayak Paddle provide greater flexibility when paddling through the water, but may crack if left to degrade in the sun. Speaking of heat, even though aluminum is both durable and serviceable, it can also get cold or hot depending on the weather you are kayaking in. It is best to stow the kayak paddle in the shade when it’s hot out, and wear a pair of gloves if your venturing out in cold weather temperatures.
Pros:
- Two piece construction for easy storage
- Feathered blade design
- Durable and lightweight
- Available in 5 different colors
- Measures 87 inches in length
- Fitted with plastic blades
- Three locking positions
Cons:
- Plastic blades may crack if left out in the sun for longer periods
- Only available in 87 inch size
- May not be a good fit for short-heighted paddlers
Final thoughts
The three best kayak paddle options mentioned in this list are designed to make the paddling task easy and efficient. All three paddles feature a feathered blade design, which reduces wind resistance in the water. Further, they offer three locking positions, which allows you to use either your right or left hand as the control hand.
The SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle and the Leaderboard Accessories kayak paddles can be ordered in a choice of two sizes – 84 inches or 96 inches and 87 or 96 inches respectively, and the Naviskin paddle is available in only 87 inch long variant.
If you’d like to buy a kayak paddle that matches the color of your kayak or even the gear that you’re wearing, the Leaderboard Accessories and Naviskin paddle offer a choice of five color options including blue, orange and yellow. In terms of durability, all three paddles feature a two piece aluminum construction for easy storage and long service life.