A up-close photo of a Decathlon Itiwit kayak paddle beneath water

How to Choose your Kayak Paddle

Got your kayak all set? Now it's time to pick the perfect paddle to go with it. Read our expert guidance to find the perfect set below.

Choosing your Kayak Paddle

1. How often do you practice?

We can break this down into two categories:

A family of 3 kayaking and having fun

Occasional Trips

If you’re only venturing out onto the water every few months or a couple of times a year, choose an aluminium paddle. It’s shock-resistant, which is handy because you’re more likely to bash it around a bit while you get back into the swing of things.

A person kayaking in the ocean

Our watersports brand itiwit

Our watersports brand provides expert advice on your water-based activities.

A man and a woman kayaking with carbon paddles

Regular Trips

For regular kayakers, a fibre or carbon paddle is best. It's lighter and will enhance your speed and performance if you know what you're doing.

Kayak Paddle Types

Detachable or fixed paddles

1) First up, in the detachable category, we have four-piece paddles. These are very compact and easily slip into your kayak bag while taking up very little space.

2) Two-piece paddles are compact but more robust, making them the ideal compromise.

3) Fixed paddles are more robust but less compact. If you are a regular user, this paddle will have less play.

According to your size

To find the right size kayak paddle for you, hold your arm above your head with the bottom of the paddle on the floor – lean it against something if you want, but make sure it’s straight or get someone to hold it next to you. The paddle on the floor must reach your wrist (+10 cm for inflatable kayaks).

Three women in a sea kayak using fixed kayak paddles

Check out our range of Kayak Paddles

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Diego

Decathlon kayak specialist

"Our watersports brand Itiwit tries to make watersports accessible for everyone by offering high-quality products at affordable prices. So, what are you waiting for?"

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