How to choose Rafting or flatwater canoe paddle?

Length:

  1. On the water: Sit inside the canoe and measure the vertical distance from your nose to the waterline. This measurement should match the distance a a paddle's grip to the throat, where the paddle shaft meets the blade.
  2. On the floor, if you have a paddle,try to kneel down with your bottom about 6" off the floor, as if sitting in a canoe. Hold the paddle upside down, with the grip on the floor. The throat of the paddle should be between your chin and your nose. If without a paddle, measure from the floor to your nose directly.

Note: For wider canoes or paddling from the stern (rear seat), consider adding 2" to the paddle length so you can reach the water without excessive leaning.