Double paddles are used to move kayaks using muscle power. You also will be Single Blade Paddlecalled. double paddle consist of a shaft whose ends are equipped on both sides with a paddle each. In order to double paddle are ergonomically feasible, modern products are rotated at an angle between 45 and 90 degrees to each other. In the sea kayaking and the „playboating“, however, are predominantly double paddle used that are not rotated. double paddle are offered as left- and right-handed versions. However, the rotation does not say anything about whether a model was designed for right-handed or left-handed people. The use of the double paddle is purely a matter of practice. Canoe racing involves so-called wing paddles. They differ from conventional paddles in the shape of the paddle blade. In this embodiment, the shocks are not mainly backwards, but mostly to the side. Wing paddles are almost entirely manufactured by all manufacturers of fiber composite material.

Criteria for selecting a double paddle

When choosing a double paddle, a variety of criteria must be taken into account to avoid a bad buy and the associated frustration. Important selection criteria are the personal paddle style, the weight of the paddle, the material, the nature of the paddle blade, the length of the paddle, the leaf shape, the entanglement, the divisibility, the ergonomics and the price.

Paddling distinguishes between a flat and a steep style. In competitions and rides in whitewater always the steep style is preferred. For leisurely tours, however, you can paddle flat. The style can be different requirements for the double paddle derived. Water walkers want a model that requires little effort. For white water riders, on the other hand, the focus is on maximum strength and optimal control.

The weight of a paddle is important only on longer trips. Lightweight carbon models weigh about 600 grams. A double paddle made of aluminum, however, is usually twice as heavy, so that makes the difference in hours of paddling quite noticeable.

The material determines the handling characteristics, longevity and weight of the paddle. It must be distinguished between the leaf and the stem material. The shank can be made of wood, carbon, GRP, aluminum or plastic. Carbon for example is a very light and very stiff and expensive material. It has the ability to transfer the applied force directly to the water. When paddling with a carbon paddle, for example with the Egalis Swing Carbon Fiber Thermo-Carbon paddleeasy double paddle, but also the joints are more stressed. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic paddles are also lightweight and very rigid and more expensive than aluminum models, for example the product Relags double paddle aluminum 2.20 m. In terms of weight and price, paddles with a fiberglass shaft are a good compromise. Double paddles made of aluminum are very inexpensive, medium-heavy, but feel cold in the hands. They are mostly used by beginners and lenders. The cheapest paddles are made of plastic. They are only slightly resilient and bend under load. Wooden paddles can be very suitable. They are not too stiff, feel warm, look appealing, but unfortunately are not cheap either.

Paddle sheets can be made of wood :, carbon, GRP, polyamide, PU foam and PVC.

Who prefers the flat paddle style, needs a longer paddle than for steep paddling. Also for wider canoes, such as 2-person kayaks, a longer paddle is an advantage. Small people need shorter paddles than tall people.