Best Paddle Board Paddles of 2020 – The Top 5

Just as important as a good board is a good paddle. It’s an investment worth taking seriously, as a bad paddle can turn your day out on the water into a disaster. Let our guide of the top five help you select the best paddle board paddles.

5. Own the Wave 3-Piece Adjustable Paddle. With an aluminum shaft and nylon composite blade, this beginner-friendly paddle should last you a while. It’s easily adjustable and takes only seconds to put together or take apart. Lightweight and with an ergonomic handle, this is a much-loved and highly-rated paddle.

4. Outdoor Tuff 2-Piece Adjustable Paddle. Outdoor Tuff’s paddle breaks down into two smaller pieces– not quite as compact as a 3-piece, but easy to tear down and reassemble nonetheless. Designed to float, this paddle can be easily adjusted between five and seven feet. The paddle locks into place, as well, so you don’t have to worry about it sliding down to a different size while in use.

3. Great SUP Pure SUP Paddle. If you want quality, look no further. Made from premium carbon fiber, Great SUP’s paddle is lightweight and built to last. The popular three-piece adjustable design means it fits just about any sized paddler, although it’s worth noting that both the price tag and larger blade size make this paddle better suited towards advanced paddlers.

2. Raystreak Adjustable Alloy SUP Paddle. Raystreak’s three-piece adjustable paddle can easily adjust between 67 and 84.5 inches. The manufacturer states this is ideal for anyone over five feet tall. It comes with a paddle bag for easy storage and transport, and the ergonomic paddle handle will keep your hands feeling good for the duration of your time on the water.

1. Newport Vessels SUP Paddle. This three-piece adjustable paddle was designed to fit just about everyone, from kids up to a 6’5” adult. Weighing just 2.5 pounds, this paddle is made from fiberglass, making it both durable and lightweight. It floats well for easy recovery and can be taken apart for convenient transport. Highly-rated and inexpensive, Newport Vessels’ paddle is an excellent choice for beginners and advanced paddlers alike.

Tips for choosing the right paddle board paddles

● Decide if you want adjustable or fixed length. Fixed length paddles usually weigh less and have less give to them. Adjustable paddles are easily packed down and can be used by any sized paddler. The right one for you boils down to personal preference.

● Choose a material. Paddles are made from a variety of materials. Some are lightweight, some are durable, and some are a good combination of both. Most entry-level paddles are plastic, but many advanced paddlers prefer carbon fiber.

● Pick your shape. Paddles come in two shapes: tear-drop and rectangular. The difference is the cadence. Tear-drop paddles encourage a slower cadence, which in turn provides more power. Rectangular paddles are gentler and paddlers generally use a higher cadence.

Final thoughts

Choosing a paddle is no easy task, but you should know enough now to get started. With all the good choices in the marketplace right now, it’s hard to go too wrong, so find yourself a paddle and just get out there!