Thrills of Watersports
If you are someone who craves high-energy adventures on the water, Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Canada have everything you need. Enjoy a romantic getaway on a kayak, a fun day tubing with your family, and everything in between.
How to choose the right paddle for your kayak?
As you navigate around the different types, angles, lengths, and shafts, you’ll realize the hunt for the right paddle can be a difficult journey – but we got your back. Here are a few things to consider before you buy a paddle.
Paddle Length
Defining the right paddle length is simple: The wider your boat, the longer your paddle should be. You will need a longer paddle if you are a tall paddler in a narrower boat.
Tip: Although boats are measured in inches, paddles are measured in centimetres.
Paddle Material
The lighter the paddle, the more efficient your strokes and performance will be. It causes less fatigue and more transfer of energy.
- Plastic/nylon blades: They are less expensive and are often used by recreational paddlers. They might crack and degrade when left in the sun.
- Fibreglass blades: They have excellent durability and fall in the mid-price range category. It generally will not crack all the way through.
- Carbon Fibre Blades: Every stroke is clear cut with a carbon fibre blade. They cost a bit more but provide top performance. They are lightweight and stiff, providing excellent energy transfer.
Paddle Blade Shape & Size
Determining a paddle’s blade shape and size can affect your performance.
For long-distance paddling, a narrower blade is easy to maneuver. On the other hand, a wider blade provides more speed.
Paddle Weight
Understanding the effects of paddle weight is quite straightforward. When the paddle is heavy, it tends to cause fatigue and strain in your arms. Longer paddles weigh more, and it might be worth limiting the weight. If you are planning to paddle long-distance, it is ideal to choose fibreglass over plastic.
Paddle Shaft Material & Shape
Aluminum shafts are popular, pocket-friendly, and durable. They can get very cold/hot, depending on the weather and it is a good idea to glove up before you grab it.
Carbon and fibreglass are the most efficient shaft materials. They are weightless and increase your overall performance.
Your experience with paddles changes based on the shaft’s shape too.
A bent shaft is more of a push-down. It has a kinked section which helps you position your hands more comfortably. It minimizes fatigue and discomfort in your joints.
While a straight shaft is all pulled back. These are easygoing on your wallet and lighter than the bent shafts. Flat shafts are ideal for most flatwater kayakers.
How to Choose the Best Towable for Your Boat
Tubing is one of the most exhilarating and versatile water activity. Choosing a towable is exciting as there are so many options. However, when choosing a tube, it is good to be mindful of the rider and their preference.
Things To Do Before Buying a Towable
- Consider who will ride in the tube.
- Figure out how many riders you want to pull.
- Research all the types of tubes available based on their shape, size, and maneuverability.
- A tow rope is what connects the tube to the boat. Make sure your rope is long enough for the type of tubing you plan to do. Consider using an Orb Tow Rope with Inflatable Buoy to keep the rope out of the water. If your tow tube has 1 rider capacity, you need a 1 rider tow rope and so forth.
- The durability of a towable is important for safety and longevity. Look for tubes that are made from high-quality materials which can withstand rough waters and heavy use.
- Consider how easy the towable tube is to set up, inflate and attach to the boat. Check the towable compatibility with any other additional accessories.
Tip: Calm waters early in the morning or evening will give you the best tubing experience.