Shaft length question
How tall are you and what boat do you paddle (OC-1/OC-2 or OC-6)?
I never just measure the shaft of the paddle as all paddles are designed diffirently. Try using Kialoa's paddle lenght chart at http://www.kialoa.com/FAQ.asp#choose
I'm just over 6' and I use a 50" in Kialoa and Mudlite in OC-1 and OC-6. Although your big boat blade should be longer then your small boat one, I just prefer a shorter blade.
As for blade width, it all varies once again pending your boat type and preferance. Try out them out for comfort first!
#1 Sun, 07/24/2005 - 5:26pm
I'd go with a woody or a hybrid, but I'm biased against carbon blades.
Mudbrook Mudlites are very good paddles (I have Mudlite OC-1 and paddled a few times with XP), good catch and flex.
For your height I'd go with a 49" as you can always cut it down a little.
#3 Sun, 07/24/2005 - 9:24pm
I need help with choosing my shaft length. I am still debating on a ZRE and a Mud-lite.
I started with ZRE's formula from my seat to tip of nose=28 inches (in a paddling position.) I borrowed my friends 49" wood paddle and the shaft length is 30". But when I paddle with it, the joint between the shaft and blade is just out of the water (at mid thigh during my stroke).
Should I stick with 30" and just choke up or go to a 31" ? And a Mud-lite would only be 31"+16.5"(blade)=47.5 vs a 31"+19.5=50.5" on a ZRE. Should the wood length and carbon fibre length be equal?
Last question, blade width. 9" or go with stock width? Thanks for any help.
Submitted by Dog_paddle on