Kids' touring

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.

Where will you use this paddle? If you plan to use this paddle in more dynamic environments like tidal races, rock hopping or gentle rivers you may want look to the shorter end of the range. Shorter paddles help you to be more reactive and increase your stroke rate when needed.

All VE touring paddles are adjustable two-piece. This makes them easier to carry on or in your kayak, it also means they are extendable in length up to 10 cm and can be adjusted to any blade angle. The angle (sometimes called ‘feather’) of your blades affects how much your wrists will flex to plant the blade, most people prefer a blade angle of thirty or fourty-five degrees.

How wide is the kayak you normally use? A slightly longer paddle may make it easier to reach the water in a wide kayak with a high knee height. Conversely if your kayak is particularly narrow you may want a slightly shorter paddle.

How long is the kayak you normally use? A long paddle will trace a longer arc in the water, slowing your cadence and giving you more leverage, good for long boats with high hull speed. You can reach the top speed of a short boat with a few quick, short power strokes, so no need for a long paddle.

Paddle length and blade size are similar to gears in a car or bike: A longer paddle or bigger blade is like a higher gear, potentially a higher top speed but more effort and time needed to get to that speed.

A bigger blade will ‘grip’ the water firmer than a smaller blade, which you may find fatiguing or overpowering. Touring blades are generally smaller in size, and you have the option of a narrow blade shape too. A narrow blade like the Vanda can decrease the strain even further.

The size chart is for paddles for kids kayaks (narrower than a small adult kayak). If the kayak is too big for the paddler (it happens, buying kids kayaks that they will grow out of is a commitment) then a longer paddle will be useful so they can reach the water.

The Wisp has a smaller blade, which also has a smaller diameter shaft, less fatiguing for smaller paddlers. If the Wisp is not for you then another model with a smaller blade size may be suitable and similarly a short paddle length.

Sit-on-top and inflatable kayaks tend to be wider than closed cockpit touring kayaks for which we recommend a longer paddle.