A kayak paddle is one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll buy for your kayaking adventures. Luckily, there are a ton of options out there, and many of them are great for the environment. While carbon fiber is usually more expensive than other materials, it’s becoming more popular in the kayaking world. In this article, I’ll go over why carbon fiber is good for paddles, as well as some of the best carbon fiber kayak paddles on the market today.
I’ll also cover an all-around great paddle from fiberglass, the Werner Skagit Carbon Fiber Kayak Paddle. If you’re interested in all the other options as well, keep on reading.
Best carbon fiber kayak paddle : Top 10 Picks For 2023
Paddles are one of the most important pieces of gear in your kayak. If you’re not using the right paddle, it can not only make your kayaking experience miserable, but it can also make you unsafe.
When it comes to paddles, there are a lot of features to consider and only so many budgets to work with.
1. Best Marine Kayak Paddle | Carbon Fiber Shaft & Fiberglass Reinforced Polypropylene Blades | 220cm, 234cm, 250cm | Lightweight Kayak Paddles for Adults | Kayak Oars & Accessories
Features :
- PERFORMANCE: This 234cm paddle weighs 33.5oz and separates into 2 pieces
- ULTRA LIGHT: Carbon paddle shaft weighs less than fiberglass or aluminum
- COLORFUL DESIGNS: 5 fun & exciting color options to choose from
- COMFORTING: Reduces arm fatigue & makes kayaking fun & more enjoyable
- AFFORDABILITY: Similar quality to other carbon paddles at a better price
- VERSATILITY: Kayak oar can also be used with a canoe or sup paddle board
- PEACE OF MIND: Based in Massachusetts with a 100% money back guarantee
Additional Info :
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Length | 234 |
| Weight | 2.094391489 |
For our money, the Calilyon kayak paddle is the best option for a variety of reasons. First, it comes in three lengths, making it ideal for adults, teens, and kids. Second, the carbon fiber shaft makes this paddle incredibly lightweight, which is essential for those times when you need to keep your kayak balanced. Third, they come with a two-year warranty and are built to last.
Finally, they come with both blades and a drip guard, which is a rare find in kayak paddles. This paddle is lightweight, durable, and comes in three lengths.
2. Hornet Watersports Fiberglass Kayak Paddle for Adults- Ideal for Touring, Fishing and Boating- 90.5 inches / 230CM Adjustable with Carbon Fiber Shaft- Kayak Oars Kayaking Equipment
Features :
- GRAPHIC DESIGN: The blade’s power face has a beautiful turtle design while the backside side is reinforced with fiberglass for maximum durability. The graphic is not a sticker, it is printed directly on the blade and will not come off. The dihedral and rounded blade shape is ideal for efficiently pulling water.
- DURABLE: The paddle blade is made of durable Fiberglass, while the shaft is a mix of light carbon fiber and fiberglass. This combination gives an optimal flex for your paddling session, whether you’re out for a leisurely ride or for a hard workout.
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL: The midsize blade of this paddle is ideal for touring, kayak fishing and any type of recreational paddling. The kayak oars are designed for paddlers of all skill levels. Fits most kayak paddle grips. Includes kayak paddle drip rings
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND EASY TO TRANSPORT: The paddle weighs 26 oz. and comes with two drip rings. The paddle breaks down into two parts making it easy to transport and store away.
- ADJUSTABLE SHAFT: The kayak oar has a straight shaft and measures 90.5” (230 CM). The adjustable mechanism can extend the paddle to 94.5” (240 CM). The angle of the blade can be changed and adjusted from 0 to 60 degrees. The paddle allows for blade feathering in increments of 15 degrees.
Additional Info :
| Color | Crush Turtle |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Weight | 1.625 |
For rowing and canoeing- outrigger canoe paddle for rowing and canoeing
Choose the Best Kayak Paddle for Your Water Sports Activities
If you love water sports and you are looking for a paddle that will let you explore the waters, then you must choose the Hornet Watersports Fiberglass Kayak Paddle for Adults. This kayak paddle is ideal for touring, fishing, and boating. Made from fiberglass and equipped with a carbon fiber shaft, it is lightweight and easy to use.
You can adjust it to your desired length, making it versatile. The shaft comes with a plastic ferrule that will hold the adjustment in place.
3. WONITAGO Kayak Paddles Carbon Fiber Shaft Paddle with Nylon Blades, Floating Adjustable Kayaking Oars, 3 Piece, 230-250 cm/90-98 Inches Black
Features :
- CARBON FIBER SHAFT KAYAK PADDLE — The carbon fiber shaft contributes to the lightweight of the whole paddle. It’s stiff yet with certain flexibility required to maintain better performance and protect the shaft from breaking under extremely powerful stroke and increase traction and comfort for the hand, floats in saltwater and freshwater
- POLYPROPYLENE BLADE — Our nylon blades has good durability and corrosion resistance, the streamlined design adds power and stability to the stroke while reducing the flutter of the paddle
- A+ ADVANTAGE and DESIGN — 3-pieces combined design make the paddle more portable, you can separate it into 3 parts to carry with you more conveniently, and ±60° Quick Pin Button Lock makes it easier to assemble fastly and adjust the paddle at any length to fit you perfectly, Paddle total weight is only 2.2lbs (1 kg), Total length adjustable from 230 to 250CM/90-98 Inches
- SUITABLE FOR ALL LEVELS PADDLERS — Whether you are a newbie, a casual paddler or a professional paddler, Wonitago Paddle will be a good choice for you, This paddle is designed and tested by experienced paddlers. The lightweight really reduces paddler fatigue and makes it easy for virtually anyone to use
- WHY CHOOSE WONITAGO — We’ve been manufacturing paddles for 10 years, We firmly believe that our products will bring you the best experience in paddling. If you’re not happy with our products, please contact us and we will provide you with the best solution
Additional Info :
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.181102361 |
| Width | 7.086614166 |
| Length | 45.275590505 |
| Weight | 1 |
This paddle has an adjustable shaft that can be lengthened or shortened to suit your height. It has a high-quality, carbon-fiber shaft and nylon blades. The shaft is black, making it less likely to reflect the sun and heat up. The paddle is also lightweight, so it won’t tire you out too quickly.
The nylon blades are relatively lightweight and durable. They can handle a bit of a beating when you’re out on the water and paddling around obstacles. If they do get damaged, they’re easy to replace and wonitago also sell replacement blades.
4. Wilderness Systems Pungo Carbon Recreation/Touring Kayak Paddle | Carbon Fiber Blade |Adjustable Carbon Fiber Shaft (220-240cm), Black, One Size
Features :
- designed to deliver maximum boat control for recreational and touring paddlers
- features a lightweight yet powerful mid-size foam core blade that works well in any type of water conditions
- delivers crisp, clean and flutter-free strokes without compromising power and efficiency
- adjustable size – 220cm base length expandable up to 240cm
- works well with rec/touring kayaks from wilderness systems and other brands
- Sport type: Kayaking
Additional Info :
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 0.01 |
| Width | 0.01 |
| Length | 0.01 |
| Weight | 0.01 |
| Release Date | 2019-04-08T00:00:01Z |
The carbon fiber paddle for the Wilderness Systems Pungo is strong and durable, made of carbon fiber with an aluminum shaft. The paddle is adjustable between 220-240cm in length so it is suitable for tall or short kayakers. The paddle blade is carbon fiber with an aluminum threaded ferrule, which connects the blade to the shaft. The paddle has a black, adjustable, nylon webbed grip with a paddle leash.
The paddle is designed for recreational and touring kayaks, but it is also suitable for whitewater and sea kayaking. The paddle is lightweight at just 2. 7 lbs and comes with a one-year warranty against defects in materials or workmanship.
5. WONITAGO Kayak Paddle Premium Carbon Fiber Paddle with Reinforced Fiberglass Blades, Floating Oars for Kayaks. 3-Piece Adjustable Kayaking Paddles Accessories, 230-240CM/90.5-94.5 Inches, Red
Features :
- CARBON FIBER SHAFT KAYAK PADDLE — The carbon fiber shaft contributes to the lightweight of the whole paddle. It’s stiff yet with certain flexibility required to maintain better performance and protect the shaft from breaking under extremely powerful stroke and increases traction and comfort for the hand
- FIBERGLASS BLADE — Our fiberglass blades has good durability and corrosion resistance, the streamlined design adds power and stability to the stroke while reducing the flutter of the paddle
- Adjustable Kayak Paddles — 2-pieces combined design make the paddle more portable, you can separate it into 2 parts to carry with you more conveniently, and one-touch trigger Lock makes it easier to assemble fastly and adjust the paddle at any length to fit you perfectly, Paddle total weight is only 1.8lb (0.8kg), Total length adjustable from 230-240CM/90-94 Inches
- Suitable for Almost All Paddlers — Whether you are a newbie, a casual paddler, or a professional paddler, this Paddle will be a good choice for you, This paddle is designed and tested by experienced paddlers. The lightweight really reduces paddler fatigue and makes it easy for virtually anyone to use
- WHY CHOOSE WONITAGO — We’ve been manufacturing paddles for 10 years, We firmly believe that our products will bring you the best experience in paddling. If you’re not happy with our products, please contact us and we will provide you with the best solution
Additional Info :
| Color | Red |
And black. Kayak paddle with reinforced fiberglass blades and aluminum shaft. 230-240cm adjustable length. Designed for general use, fishing, and racing. This kayak paddle is made of high-quality materials, premium carbon fiber shaft and reinforced fiberglass blades. The shaft is 3-piece adjustable with a plastic lock.
The blades are designed to be very quiet in use, suitable for fishing and racing. The whole paddle is 230-240cm/90. 5-94. 5 inches in adjustable length, has a good balance and feel. This is a good quality, entry-level adjustable kayak paddle.
6. Wilderness Systems Apex Carbon Recreation/Touring Kayak Paddle | Carbon Fiber Blade | Adjustable Carbon Fiber Shaft (220-240cm), Black
Features :
- designed to deliver maximum boat control for recreational and touring paddlers
- features a lightweight yet powerful ultra-lightweight carbon fiber foam core blade that works well in any type of water conditions
- delivers crisp, clean and flutter-free strokes without compromising power and efficiency
- adjustable size – 220cm base length expandable up to 240cm
- works well with rec/touring kayaks from wilderness systems and other brands
- Carbon fiber shaft and Blade help you paddle farther and longer by reducing fatigue
- Weighs just 27 ounces making it one of the lightest paddles on the market
- Sport type: Kayaking
Additional Info :
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Weight | 1.6875 |
| Release Date | 2019-04-08T00:00:01Z |
The Apex paddle by Wilderness Systems has an adjustable carbon fiber shaft that ranges from 220 to 240cm, making it ideal for taller kayakers. This paddle has a high-performance carbon fiber blade that is light, strong and resists impact damage. A rubber grip provides extra comfort and grip. The blade is a rowing style rather than a kayak paddle blade, which is much more efficient for kayaking.
If you are doing a lot of paddling and want a lightweight, high-performance paddle, this may be the one for you. Some users have reported the rubber grip peeling away from the shaft, but this can be easily fixed with a little epoxy.
7. WONITAGO Kayak Paddle Lightweight Full Carbon Fiber Greenland Paddle with Paddle Bag, 2-Piece, 219CM/86 Inches
Features :
- CARBON FIBER SHAFT + CARBON FIBER BLADE — Compared with ordinary aluminum kayak paddles, WONITAGO kayaking paddle is Lighter but more durable, the weight is only 56% of the ordinary aluminum paddle, Carbon fiber blade has stronger corrosion resistance punishing environment, floats in saltwater and freshwater
- Assemble Kayak Paddle — 2-pieces combined design make Greenland Paddle more portable, you can separate it into 2 parts to carry with you more conveniently, and the unique lock design makes it easier to assemble fastly, it can be assembled in a few seconds. Paddle total weight is only 1.6lb, Total length range 219CM/86Inches and comes with a free professional protection paddle bag
- Beginner or Casual Paddlers Friendly — If you are a beginner or casual paddler, don’t worry. WONITAGO Paddle for kayaking will be a good choice for you, This carbon fiber paddle can help you quickly master the gliding skills, making your taxiing more interesting, especially for all kinds of oarsmen, beginners and teenagers
- UNIQUE DESIGN — In addition to applying high-quality materials, There is a simple elegance in Greenland Rolling and Traditional Paddling, the symmetry, simplicity, and buoyancy of the Greenland paddle enable you to paddle more easily in your long trip
- WHY CHOOSE WONITAGO — We’ve been manufacturing paddles for 10 years, We firmly believe that our products will bring you the best experience in paddling. If you’re not happy with our products, please contact us and we will provide you with the best solution
Additional Info :
The Wonitago kayak paddle is one of the best carbon fiber paddle on the market. It’s lightweight and easy to use. It has a 2-piece shaft and the blade is detachable. The blade is really small and light, easy to pack and carry around. The shaft is made with strong aircraft grade aluminum. This is the best carbon fiber kayak paddle for fishing.
The paddle is long enough to be used with a double paddle kayak. The blade is made with nano composite material which enhances its strength and durability. The paddle is also corrosion resistant and UV resistant. The paddle comes with a nylon carry bag for easy and safe storage and transportation.
8. Backwater 06-0017 Assassin Full Paddle Carbon Hybrid – 98.5″ to 102.5″ Length
Features :
- Available in 230-240 cm (90.5-94.5 in) & 250-260 cm (98.5-102.5 in) adjustable lengths
- ABS injected nylon blade
- Hook feature to grab your line, waterfowl decoy, dock, or tree limb
- Serrated teeth edge can be used to launch yourself off solid surfaces
- Drip rings included
Additional Info :
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 6 |
| Length | 54 |
| Weight | 10 |
The backwater 06-0017 full paddle carbon shower drain is a great choice if you want to add a touch of elegance to your bathroom. This design has full carbon fiber construction, which not only makes it lightweight but also beautiful. It’s available in four lengths, ranging from 98. 5” to 102. 5”. The shower drain also has a unique 90-degree elbow design.
This makes the drainage process faster and easier. The elbow design also helps prevent mold from growing in the drain. Finally, this shower drain has an aluminum collar ring that helps prevent the entry of molds and bacteria. This product is backed by a one-year warranty from the manufacturer.
9. Abahub 1 x Carbon Kayak Paddles, 90.5 Inches Kayaking Oars for Boating, Canoeing with Free Paddle Leash, Carbon Fiber Shaft Black Plastic Blades
Features :
- CARBON DESIGN – LIGHTWEIGHT & DURABLE: Made of premium quality 1.25mm thick, 29mm diameter carbon fiber composite shaft, and fiberglass reinforced polypropylene blades, this kayak paddle is impact and erosion resistent, thus for great durability. It weighs only 33 oz, and is perfect for beginner and intermediate kayakers.
- EASY to USE: This 2-sections detachable kayak paddle is designed with 3 locking positions to offset the blade to reduce wind resistance accordingly. It’s also designed with 0.5mm shaft rubber cover for better grip. This especailly provides your hands with more comfort during cold winter paddling.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT BLADE DESIGN: With 18” x 6.5”Asymmetrical blades, this paddle is comfortable and energy saving, both for casual and long distance paddling. The blades are feathered with a hollow spine for reinforcement and less weight. All these add up to better cuts and pulls through water.
- 90.5″ FITS MOST: Both kayak length and paddler’s height are analyzed to set the length of this oar at 90.5 inches/230 cm, so it could fit most people over 5’5″ with the common kayak width of 24″ – 28″.
- PRACTICAL and CONSIDERATE DESIGN: All of our kayak paddles come with a free bungee paddle leash to help secure your paddle to your kayak, especially when you’d like to lay it down to stop for a rest. 2 upgraded drip rings at both joints of the blades are added to minimize water flow during paddling so you won’t get wet easily.
Additional Info :
| Color | black |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.99999999796 |
| Width | 8.267716527 |
| Length | 35.43307083 |
| Weight | 2.65 |
The carbon fiber shaft is lightweight and extremely durable. The kayak paddle is suitable for rock, lake, and ocean. It has a high strength-to-weight ratio than aluminum and fiberglass paddles. The kayak paddle is designed for high-performance, efficiency, and smooth rowing. The shaft is slightly angled to enhance efficiency and reduce muscle fatigue. You can comfortably and smoothly paddle in the kayak.
The kayak paddle has a built-in drip guard to keep the paddle dry. It has a soft padded grip for comfort and protection. You can adjust the length to your desired size. The kayak oar has a hard plastic blade that is suitable for rowing in lakes and slow rivers.
10. Hornet Watersports Graphic Fiberglass Kayak Paddle- Ideal for Touring, Fishing and Boating- 90.5 inches / 230CM Adjustable with Carbon Fiber Shaft – Kayak Oars Kayaking Equipment (Blue Scales)
Features :
- GRAPHIC DESIGN: The blade’s power face has a beautiful double-sided fish scale design, which shows through on the blade’s transparent backface. The other side is reinforced with fiberglass for maximum durability and a sleek look. The dihedral blade shape is ideal for efficiently pulling water.
- DURABLE: The paddle blade is made of durable Fiberglass, while the shaft is a mix of light carbon fiber and fiberglass. This combination gives an optimal flex for your paddling session, whether you’re out for a leisurely ride or for a hard workout.
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL: The midsize blade of this paddle is ideal for touring, kayak fishing and any type of recreational paddling. The kayak oars are designed for paddlers of all skill levels. Fits most kayak paddle grips. Includes kayak paddle drip rings
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND EASY TO TRANSPORT: The paddle weighs 26 oz. and comes with two drip rings. The paddle breaks down into two parts making it easy to transport and store away.
- ADJUSTABLE SHAFT: The kayak oar has a straight shaft and measures 90.5” (230 CM). The adjustable mechanism can extend the paddle to 94.5” (240 CM). The angle of the blade can be changed and adjusted from 0 to 60 degrees. The paddle allows for blade feathering in increments of 15 degrees.
Additional Info :
| Color | Blue Scales |
With a carbon fiber shaft designed to reduce overall weight and maximize power, the Hornet Watersports Graphic Fiberglass Kayak Paddle is an ideal choice for touring, fishing, and boating. The paddle, which adjusts from 90. 5 to 101. 5 inches, is made of fiberglass and includes blue scales and Hornet Watersports graphics. It also includes a screw-in ferrule.
Designed for one-handed rowing, the paddle is easy to use and maneuver, even in choppy water. It weighs 3. 11 pounds and is backed by a lifetime warranty. Reviews confirm buyers’ satisfaction with the paddle’s quality and ease of use.
Things To Consider Before Buying A carbon fiber kayak paddle
Material
When shopping, check both the blade and the shaft material. Blade materials range from carbon fiber to aluminum. Shaft materials include aluminum, wood, and composite. Aluminum is the heaviest material and is often found on lower-priced models. Wood is lighter but can be susceptible to water damage. Composite materials are a good middle ground and are often found on higher-priced models.
Blade Shape
Most kayak paddles have flat blades, but some have curved blades. Curved blades are better for low-pressure situations, such as when paddling in calm water or for beginners. Flat blades are better for high-pressure situations, such as when racing or when paddling in rough water.
Measurements
Paddle measurements include overall length, blade length, and shaft length. Most adult paddles are between 60 and 70 inches long, though some people may need a shorter length for paddling in tight areas. Blade length is usually between 16 and 20 inches. Shaft length is usually around 42 to 46 inches, but check to make sure the length is adequate for the person using the paddle.
Weight
Weight can be a big consideration for paddles, especially for solo kayakers. Paddles that weigh less than 2 pounds are considered lightweight and are a good choice for beginners or those who need to keep their kayak’s overall weight down. Paddles that weigh more than 3½ pounds are considered heavy and are better for more experienced kayakers or those who need a strong, durable paddle.
Ease of Use
Look for paddles that have a comfortable grip and that are easy to adjust. Easy-to-use paddles are good choices for beginners and more casual kayakers. Advanced kayakers and racers may need a paddle that has several interchangeable components to ensure the perfect fit.
Storage
If you plan to store your paddle on your kayak, consider whether you need a folding or collapsible paddle. Foldable paddles take up less space and are a good choice for kayakers who need to keep their weight down. If you plan to store your paddle elsewhere, look for a paddle that has a storage hook or that fits into a standard paddle holder.
Application
Beginners, casual kayakers, and those on a budget should consider a basic, all-purpose paddle. More advanced kayakers and racers should consider a paddle specifically designed for their needs. For example, if you need to conserve
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are carbon fiber paddles good?
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What is the best carbon fiber paddle?
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Are carbon fiber paddles worth it?
Yes. Carbon fiber paddles are worth it. If you can afford it and if they fit your needs, go ahead and spend the extra money. A high quality carbon fiber paddle is well worth the money.
Will carbon fiber paddles break Yes, carbon fiber paddles will break under certain circumstances. If you hit a rock with a carbon fiber paddle, it’s going to break.
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What material is best for kayak paddle?
Traditionally, paddles were made of wood. Nowadays, they are usually made of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) or carbon fiber. In terms of durability and feel, GRP is at the top of the list.
It is widely used in the marine industry and is known for its strength and flexibility, which makes it a perfect material for paddles. Carbon fiber paddles are very lightweight, which makes them great for long trips.
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What is the best paddle material for lakes?
Conclusion
After reviewing this article, you should have a clear idea about the best carbon fiber kayak paddle. If you’re planning to spend $200 on a paddle, you should go for the Alutech Aluminium Kayak Paddle. It offers the best value for your money. However, if you’re looking for something more affordable, you should go for the Werner Steecon Fiberglass Kayak Paddle. It offers high quality at a budget-friendly price.
Remember that the value of a paddle depends on your requirements. So make your pick carefully! Happy shopping!
The best overall pick is Alutech Aluminium Kayak Paddle. It offers the best value for your money.