What you Need To Know About Feathered and Non Feathered Kayak Paddles
You are going to have to become familiar with two terms when it comes to your kayak paddle. This is in reference to a feathered or non feathered blade.
Feathered Paddles:
The purpose of this design is to allow easier paddling in the wind. This style promotes less resistance against the wind. One of the things that was originally noted with the feathered paddles is if it is a 90degree feather it is really difficult to get the wrist action that you need, and it can become hard on your wrist. As a result of this the feathering is more suitable at 80 degrees which allows for more control with less effort. This has been perfected even further with many now keeping their feathering between a 45-60 degree angle depending on what they find the most effective for them. The less the degree the easier it is to handle, but you are sacrificing the efficiency. The angle is in reference to the angle that the blades are positioned to each other. A non feathered paddle is straight.
If you have opted for the feathered paddle then you will soon learn that one hand is what keeps the control of the paddle. You will have to practice your skills with your control hand. How you rotate the shaft as the paddle enters the water is what gives you the precision that you are looking for.
Non feathered Paddles
These are simply straight paddles. You do not have the options that you have with the feathered paddles. With this style you will be pushing the air with the help of the full surface of the blade.
Choosing between feathered and non feathered is going to ultimately come down to your personal preference.You will also need to know about shapes as well. You may want to start off with the non feathered if you are new to kayaking or riding the rapids. As you become more experienced with your new adventure then you can begin to learn more about the intricate specifics of the kayak paddles and start experimenting with them. This will eventually guide you into your choice of what you are going to prefer the most.
