Paddle Questions

Entry level paddles are fairly low priced and others are almost beyond my comprehension - too expensive ! What are the benefits of the more expensive ones other than a cool carbon fiber look and maybe weight ?

How do I measure for a proper length paddle ?

Let see if we can help.
First is the length,
A lot of your decision will depend on your height, width of yak and type of paddle stroke. If you are a tall gent with a wide yak and use a low angle stroke than you would opt for a longer shaft. Just the opposite applies if you are the opposite-  shorter, narrow yak with a high stroke.
Once you figure how long a shaft you need - you have to decide what type of blade to use. A shorter wider blade tends to grab more water allowing you to excel faster also turn quicker - where a longer and narrower blade has less grab but will allow you to paddle longer with less effort.
The next decision will be what type of material for your paddle.
Aluminum shafts tend to be the least expensive, normally with a type of plastic used for the blades. Many mid range paddles use Fiberglass shafts and a nylon blade. The fiberglass helps reduce the weight and is a little stiffer than the aluminum. The upper end paddles use Carbon fiber which are much more rigid and a great deal lighter. In the case of Werner Carbon paddles the core of the blade is filled with foam which helps lift the blade out of the water which again helps reduce the working weight of the paddle.
The next thing to choose is the bend of the shaft. Most anglers choose a straight shaft but there is a option of a bent shaft. The bent shaft will allow your wrists to align in a more natural position but tend to take a while to get used to.
The final decision is to decide on a solid paddle or a multi piece. Solid paddles are mostly used by whitewater paddlers. The majority of anglers choose a 2-piece paddle which allows for easier storage and also to allow the angler to feather the blades. Some of the very upper end paddles come in four pieces which allows you to change blades or shafts with the purchase of extra parts rather than buying a new paddle.
The best way to make your decision is to head to a place like M.B.K. (Monterey Bay Kayaks) They are very helpful and will let you try a selection of paddles to be sure you get the right one for you.

I think that covers the bulk of it, Hope it helps.

See Ya Soon,
Eric / Yakhopper

Nice summary Eric!

I'd add that there is a noticeable difference going from aluminum to fiberglass shafts.  It less noticeable (but a whole lot more money) going from fiberglass to carbon fiber.

-Allen

I agree with both the previous comments. The best thing to do is try them out for sure. Not sure where Yolo county is but if your ever in the Lodi area you are welcome to swing by the Headwaters Shop and demo any of our paddles. Aquabound Bending Branches Swift etc. I personally feel that having a feather adjustment is crucial. I like paddle at a 30 degree offset and a lot of the less expensive paddles only do 0 or 45. I sell a lot of Aqua bound Sting Ray and Manta Ray paddles. They are light, adjustable, and they have incredible grip in the water, and all for a very fair price. Hope that helps you on your search.