There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best canoe paddles for your needs.
We created this list of the best canoe paddles with ratings and reviews to help you make an informed decision.
The most important factor to consider when choosing canoe paddles is the material they are made from. Canoe paddles can be made from wood, aluminum, or composite materials. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Wooden canoe paddles are the lightest weight option and are also the most durable. They are, however, more expensive than other options. Aluminum canoe paddles are a good middle ground option. They are not as expensive as wooden paddles but they are also not as lightweight. Composite canoe paddles are the most expensive option but they are also the lightest weight and have the best performance.
Another factor to consider is blade size and shape. Canoe paddle blades come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The two most common shapes are beavertail and oval shaped blades. Beavertail blades are wider at the top and taper down to a point at the bottom. Oval shaped blades have a more consistent width from top to bottom. The size of the blade will affect how much power you can generate with each stroke.
The length of the paddle is also important to consider. Canoe paddles come in different lengths ranging from 4 feet to 6 feet long. The longer the paddle, the more reach you will have but they can also be more difficult to control. Shorter paddles may be easier to control but you won’t have as much reach which can make them less efficient over long distances
10 Best Canoe Paddles | June 2023 (Reviewed & Ranked)
Last updated on June 12, 2023
11 minutes
OUR TOP PICKS
Top #2
Z&J SPORT Outrigger Canoe Paddle Wooden Shaft, Tahiti Style Hybrid OC Paddle with T-Handle, Durable ...
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Top #3
Five Oceans Canoe Paddle and Boat Hook, Anodized Aluminum Shaft, Reinforced ABS Black Plastic Blade ...
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A Few Of Our Ranking Metrics:
Check below for our tips on purchasing the best Canoe Paddles:
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The 10 best Canoe Paddles
Top #1
Attwood Emergency Telescoping Paddle for Boating, Orange
93%
Customer
Satisfaction
100%
Overall
Score
92%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The telescoping paddle is perfect for a variety of uses. The floating emergency paddle is designed to help you in an emergency. The boat paddle is lightweight and durable.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The oar expands to help push off from the bed.
The paddle is easy to fold up.
They are easy to use.
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Top #2
Z&J SPORT Outrigger Canoe Paddle Wooden Shaft, Tahiti Style Hybrid OC Paddle with T-Handle, Durable OC Paddle for Waka AMA, vaa, Bent Shaft & 12 Degre...
97%
Customer
Satisfaction
95%
Overall
Score
93%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The paddle is made of wood and epoxy resin, making it sturdy and durable. The dimensions of the blade are 47 cm long, 23 cm wide, and 9.7 cm deep. The blade surface area is 120 sq in.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It looks to be well made.
No blemishes.
The all carbon version has some flex with the wood.
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Top #3
Five Oceans Canoe Paddle and Boat Hook, Anodized Aluminum Shaft, Reinforced ABS Black Plastic Blade & Hook, Lightweight
94%
Customer
Satisfaction
94%
Overall
Score
92%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are the ergonomic T-Handle grip, buoyant design, and reinforced construction.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The paddle blade telescopes.
It is good for pushing off of docks and boats.
The telescopic handle seems to work well.
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Top #4
Boat Paddle Telescoping Plastic Collapsible Oar Kayak Jet Ski Tube Rafting and Miniature Mini Canoe Paddles Small Tubing Floats Oars Row and Safety Bo...
96%
Customer
Satisfaction
90%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This telescoping paddle is great for emergencies or just for fun on water rafts, river tubes, jet skis, kayak, jon boat, row boat, bass boat, tubing, canoe paddle and other inflatable boats. It collapses down to conveniently store with other boat oars, boat safety supplies kit or set in a paddle boat. The aluminum rods are rust-free and coated with high impact plastic blades, handle & joints making them soft to the touch but reliable when using on the river rafting, lake or ocean.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is good for toddlers because it has a case to keep it from dropping in the water.
It is easy to use.
It is fun.
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Top #5
Caviness Marine Twin Stripe Paddle
91%
Customer
Satisfaction
90%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This canoe paddle is made with a palm grip and has a blade dimensions of 6" x 16". It also has a shaft dimension of 1 1/4" at the grip and 1 1/4" at the throat.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The performance was better than expected.
It is good for the price.
Not warped or twisted.
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Top #6
TASDHZ Boat Oars Telescopic Paddle Aluminum Kayak Paddles Adjustable Length Canoe Paddle with Anti-Slip Grips for Kayak,Telescoping Plastic Boat Paddl...
97%
Customer
Satisfaction
89%
Overall
Score
91%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The high-quality aluminum alloy material and PVC material make this paddle board durable. The thickened blades provide better propulsion. The adjustable handle makes it easy to use. It can be folded up to 54 cm for storage.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The telescoping mechanism is easy to open; easy to close.
The build quality on this one is very good.
It broke and the metal bent.
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Top #7
SeaSense Telescopic Mini Paddle (22-Inch to 42-Inch)
91%
Customer
Satisfaction
89%
Overall
Score
87%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This canoe paddle is adjustable from 22" to 42", has a corrosion resistant aluminum shaft, and high impact molded blade and hand grips.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is a nice size.
It is collapsible, which makes it easier to store and use.
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Top #8
2 Pack of Kayak Seat Deluxe Padded Canoe Backrest Seat Sit On Top Cushioned Back Support SUP Paddle Board Seats with Detachable Storage Bag 4 Adjustab...
95%
Customer
Satisfaction
86%
Overall
Score
86%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This product is made with high-quality materials and offers excellent waterproof and cooling effects. The detachable zipper storage bag is a nice feature.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to adjust and clip to the boards.
The seats are comfortable.
Sturdy.
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Top #9
Pactrade Marine Kayak Canoe Raft Jet Ski Yellow Telescopic Aluminum Mini Oar Paddle
90%
Customer
Satisfaction
86%
Overall
Score
85%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are the adjustable sections, the Telescopes from 20.9" to 30" to 41.3", and the bright yellow for signaling purpose.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The paddles arrived timely.
It is sturdy and fits in the front compartment of a Sea Doo.
It arrived in a timely manner.
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Top #10
Arya Life Safe and Secure Stainless Paddle Holder, Paddle Storage Rack Wall Mount for Canoe, SUP Paddle Board or Kayak Paddles Oar Hangers for Garage,...
93%
Customer
Satisfaction
86%
Overall
Score
90%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is easy to use and mounts to a wall stud.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is HD.
It is made well.
If a little inconsistent, it still mounts quickly and easily.
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Canoe Paddles Buying Guide : What You Need To Know
*Our top pick for the best Canoe Paddles
Attributes Of High Quality Canoe Paddles
- Lightweight.
- Durable.
- Comfortable grip.
- Smooth paddling action.
How To Choose The Best Canoe Paddles
There are a few things to consider when purchasing canoe paddles. The first is the length of the paddle. Canoe paddles come in different lengths, so it is important to choose one that is comfortable for your height. The second thing to consider is the blade shape. Canoe paddles have either a flat or curved blade, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. The third thing to consider is the material the paddle is made from. Canoe paddles can be made from wood, aluminum, or fiberglass, and each material has its own pros and cons.
When choosing a canoe paddle, the first thing to consider is the length of the paddle. Canoe paddles come in different lengths, so it is important to choose one that is comfortable for your height. If you are taller than average, you will want a longer paddle. If you are shorter than average, you will want a shorter paddle. You can also find adjustable paddles that can be adjusted to different lengths, which can be helpful if you are sharing a canoe with someone of a different height.
The second thing to consider when choosing a canoe paddle is the blade shape. Canoe paddles have either a flat or curved blade, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Flat blades are more efficient for straight-line paddling, while curved blades provide more power for turning. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference as to which type of blade you prefer.
The third thing to consider when choosing a canoe paddle is the material the paddle is made from. Canoe paddles can be made from wood, aluminum, or fiberglass, and each material has its own pros and cons. Wood paddles are typically lighter weight and have more flex, which can make them more comfortable to use for long periods of time. Aluminum paddles are typically more durable and offer more power when paddling, but they can be heavier than wood paddles. Fiberglass paddles fall somewhere in between wood and aluminum in terms of weight and durability.
Ultimately, there is no “best” canoe paddle – it ultimately comes down to personal preference based on your individual needs and preferences. However, by considering the factors above, you should be able to narrow down your choices and find the perfect canoe paddle for you!
What To Avoid When Looking For The Best Canoe Paddles
When choosing the best canoe paddles, there are a few things you'll want to avoid in order to make sure you get the most out of your purchase. Here are four things to keep in mind!
1. Don't go for the cheapest option
Just because a paddle is cheap doesn't mean it's the best value for your money. In fact, cheaper paddles are often made with lower quality materials that won't stand up to regular use. It's important to find a balance between price and quality when selecting your canoe paddle.
2. Avoid flimsy paddles
A good canoe paddle should be sturdy and well-built. Avoid flimsy paddles that feel like they might break if you put too much pressure on them. Instead, look for a paddle that feels solid and well-constructed.
3. Don't choose a paddle that's too long or too short
The length of your canoe paddle should be based on the size of your canoe. If you have a small canoe, you'll want a shorter paddle so you don't end up banging it against the sides of your boat. Conversely, if you have a large canoe, you'll need a longer paddle to reach the water properly. Choose a paddle that's the right size for your canoe and you'll be much happier with it in the long run.
4. Avoid uncomfortable handles
The handle of your canoe paddle is another important consideration. You'll want to make sure it's comfortable to hold onto for extended periods of time. Avoid handles that are too small or too big for your hand. Also, make sure the grip is comfortable and not too slippery.