High Angle or Low Angle paddling

Hi all.

I just want to thank everyone for their suggestions and help with my paddle dilemma. Unfortunately, as is almost always the case, I'm more confused with more information than when I was clueless.

It seems that the low angle paddling is the most popular method to paddle, hence the Werner recommendations. However, and I could be dead wrong, I think I paddle high angle. What's the pro's of low angle paddling as I tend to use straight arm and bring the paddle near the side of the kayak similar to paddling a canoe.

Again, thanks for all the input and time!!!

rob
jrsyboy

Rob,
The technique you describe appears to be a high angle stroke which is usually used more for power (white water, surf, speed etc.).
A low angle uses a wider stroke and is more relaxed usually used for longer distance travel (touring, trolling, general travel).
Although many anglers have a preference for one technique or the other, I believe it would be best to learn both and use them at appropriate times. You probably already have a paddle designed for one technique so it would be best to look into a blade for the other.
I usually Cary two blades, one for traveling to my destination and one for working the tough spots. Also you will always have a backup paddle.
Eric

the lighter the paddle, the more you can do a high angle stroke. my stroke is fairly high angle too but I use a very light paddle with small blades.

you need a longer paddle with a low angle stroke, shorter with a high angle stroke.

Agree with the previous comments. 90% of the time you will be using a low angle forward stroke so if you only have one paddle, a low angle would be it, IMO. I will also say technique has a lot to do with speed and efficiency. Learning and practicing your stroke is important if you want to paddle long distances. A good low angle forward storke is effortless and stealthy, combine that with a carbon fiber paddle and a Tarpon 16.0 or Prowler 15 and it is all good. A lot of guys don't think a paddle is not worth spending a lot of money on but the lighter weight and stiffness of carbon fiber really makes paddling easier.

Scott

I paddle high angle cause it makes me use my stomach muscles more - again, it's really a personal choice.

I totally agree with Scott - The high end paddles are worth it - especially if you like to troll or simply cover distance.....ala Blue Kayak

Honestly, I think most of you here use a high angle paddle stroke, whether you think so or not.  You sort of default to it on a SOT as you are naturally sitting higher.  Paddle a SIK some time and see the difference!!!

-Allen

Yeah my Swift is a long shaft meant for low angle but I never paddle that way  Especially pulling any weight trolling

Mooch showed me a super-lightweight yesterday and you can just tell holding it that it's good for the long mileage  If there was salmon going on I would've been sneaking a new piece of equipment home last night My wife catches me doing that right now and I'll be sleeping in the backyard

Mooch showed me a super-lightweight yesterday and you can just tell holding it that it's good for the long mileage

Epic paddle / Epic Signature Series  SUPER LIGHT!!!