Questions?

Choosing a canoe paddle

VE Paddles canoe size guide

River running + creeking Freestyle + playboating
Height (cm) Height (cm) Paddle length (cm)
140 – 150 132
150 – 160 135
140 – 150 160 – 170 138
150 – 160 170 – 180 141
160 – 170 180 – 190 145
170 – 180 148
180 – 190 151

Blade options

VE Paddles - Canoe Blade Sizes

Estimating your paddle length

The length of your canoe paddle should be approximately the distance from your chin to the ground while stood tall.

Long distance or agile?

You’ll see there’s a lot of overlap in the sizes we suggest, as your choice comes down to your unique style. You can order a custom length if you want something in between.

The best way to find your style is to test out different combinations for yourself, through one of our retailers or demo events.

Uncut paddles

You will cut the paddle to length and bond the T-grip in yourself. Once you have cut the shaft to length, lightly abrade the surfaces of the T-grip spigot and the inside of the shaft and then clean all surfaces the glue will adhere to, then use two-part epoxy to bond your T-grip in place. Once the T-grip is glued in, it is hard to remove without damaging the paddle. We recommend you try out the paddle in a sheltered environment with the T-grip taped in place until you are sure you have the correct length.

Custom length paddles

We will cut the paddle and bond the T-grip in for you. Be sure on the length of your paddle before you order. If ordering your first canoe paddle try some friends paddles first to work out what length suits you, or try out an adjustable demo paddle through one of our retailers or demo events.

Two-piece adjustable

Available also custom length or uncut (without the T-grip fitted). You can extend the length of your paddle up to 10 cm on the go.

Freestyle

Freestyle canoe paddles tend to be much shorter. There is no rule for how much shorter as it depends on your style and the blade size you choose. It is not uncommon for the paddle to be 15 cm shorter than the floor to chin measurement.

Get in touch

Have questions about your order, or a general enquiry?