Paddles

Shaft, blade, and the T-grip that saves knuckles.

The blade

A raft paddle is short, stiff, and meant to be used hard. The T-grip keeps it in your hand when the water wants it.

Sizing

shaft     4–6 ft, to your sternum
blade     8–9 in, stiff plastic
t-grip    comfortable, no slip
spare     one per boat, minimum

Why it matters

A paddle that's too long drags in the water; too short and you can't reach. The T-grip is the difference between a stroke and a lost paddle.