Best Oars For Row Boats: Top Picks And Reviews

Rowing is a fantastic way to improve your fitness and explore the great outdoors. When it comes to choosing the best oars for your rowboat, there are several factors to consider, from the type of oar and its length to the material it's made from.

The first thing to think about is the type of oar. The most common types are flat blades and spoon blades, each with several variations. The blade type you choose will depend on factors such as the hull design and length of your boat. For example, boats with rounded bottoms, like canoes, are better suited to spoon oars, while boats with flatter bottoms generally perform better with flat blades.

The length of your oars is also critical. As a rule of thumb, the oar should be about two-thirds the width of your boat. Using the correct length oar will provide the proper 7:18 leverage ratio for an optimal rowing experience.

Finally, the material of your oars will impact their durability, weight, and performance. Wooden oars offer a traditional feel but may require more maintenance. Carbon fiber oars are lightweight and durable, making them a popular choice for competitive rowing. Aluminum oars strike a good balance between lightweight and durability, while fiberglass oars offer a unique combination of the two.

With these factors in mind, you'll be well on your way to choosing the best oars for your rowboat and enjoying a smooth and efficient ride.

Oar length and angling

Oar Length:

The length of your oars should be chosen based on the size of your boat. As a general guideline, consider the following:

• For smaller boats, oars ranging from 2 to 3 meters (6.6 to 10 feet) are a good starting point.
• Mid-sized boats often require oars between 3 and 4 meters (10 to 13 feet) in length.
• Larger boats may need oars measuring 4 to 5 meters (13 to 16.4 feet) or even longer.

Additionally, it's important to maintain the proper ratio of the oar length in relation to the boat. A well-known rule of thumb is that approximately one-third of the oar should be inboard of the oar mount, while two-thirds should be outboard. This balance ensures comfortable and efficient rowing.

Oar Angling:

The angle at which you hold your oars can significantly impact your rowing technique, fatigue levels, and overall efficiency. Here are some key considerations:

• A slight upward tilt in the angle can enhance your rowing technique and improve your form.
• A more pronounced angle can reduce fatigue and optimise efficiency, especially over longer rowing distances.
• Experiment with different angles to find the sweet spot that provides the best combination of power and comfort for your rowing style and boat size.

Remember, the ideal oar length and angling will depend on various factors, including your personal preferences, the type of boat you have, and the water conditions you typically encounter.

Oar material

Oars have traditionally been made of wood, but modern oars are made from synthetic materials, the most common being carbon fibre.

Wood

Wooden oars are usually made from spruce or ash. Spruce oars are extremely light and strong, but rare. Ash oars are heavier and best suited for hard use or if they will be used to push off the bottom. Properly made flat-blade oars will be about 1/4" thick at the blade end and have a prominent rib for stiffness, strength and a graceful transition from the shaft to the blade.

Carbon Fibre

Carbon fibre oars are common in modern rowing shells (or sculls).

ABS Plastic

ABS plastic oars are strong, durable, lightweight and easy to carry and store. They are suitable for leisure use and emergency situations.

Aluminium

Aluminium oars are also available and are marketed as lightweight.

Oar blade shape and size

Flat blades are typically made from spruce or ash. Spruce oars are extremely light, while ash oars are heavier and more suitable for encountering rocks or pushing off the bottom. The flat blade will usually be about 1/4" thick at the blade end and feature a prominent rib for stiffness, strength, and a smooth transition from the shaft to the blade.

Spoon blades, also known as "macon" blades, exhibit an elliptical shape with a ridgeline running down the centre of the blade face. They are symmetrical and squared off at the end. The length and width of spoon blades vary, with some being longer and narrower, while others have shorter blades with wider tips. The longer, narrower blades are more suitable for casual and recreational rowing, as they are more forgiving in rough water due to their curvature and narrow profile, which allows them to skip off the top of waves. In contrast, the shorter, wider blades are performance oars that excel in speed and exercising but are less forgiving in choppy waters.

Another type of oar blade is the "hatchet" blade, also known as the "cleaver" blade. This blade design is almost universally used in modern rowing. Cleaver blades are asymmetrical, resembling a meat cleaver in shape. The shaft connects to the blade at an offset to the top corner, maximising the surface area in contact with the water during the stroke while minimising drag. Due to their asymmetrical design, cleaver blades can only be used on one side of the boat. They are designed to skim across the water's surface, and using them on the wrong side will cause the blade to dig into the water.

Handle material and grip

When it comes to the material and grip of your oar handle, there are a few key factors to keep in mind to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable rowing experience.

Firstly, the handle material should be durable, comfortable, and resistant to wear and tear. Common materials used for oar handles include wood, such as New Zealand Pine, which offers a traditional feel and a comfortable grip. Other options include laminated wood, carbon fibre, aluminium, and fibreglass. Carbon fibre, aluminium, and fibreglass are lightweight and durable, but carbon fibre can be prone to cracking and aluminium may not provide the same power or efficiency as other materials. Fibreglass also offers excellent strength and resistance to impact.

Secondly, the grip type is important. An ergonomic grip can help reduce fatigue and improve your rowing technique, while a textured grip provides extra traction and control. The grip style also depends on your preference and comfort. You can choose between a traditional round grip or a modern elliptical grip.

Additionally, the handle should be adjustable to fit your grip size and rowing style. Experimenting with different handle positions will help you find the most comfortable and efficient grip for your rowing adventures.

Oar safety and maintenance

Inspection and Maintenance:

• Start by placing the oars on two sawhorses for a thorough inspection.
• Check the handles for any damage, such as dings, rips, or rough spots that could be uncomfortable or harmful to your hands. Use a non-permanent marker to indicate areas that need attention.
• If your oars have adjustable handles, make sure to check and tighten the fasteners.
• Disinfect and clean the handles, as they are in frequent contact with your hands.
• Inspect the sleeves and collars, which often suffer from wear and tear. Look for worn or cracked areas, as these parts may need replacement.
• Examine the shaft, which extends from the handle to the spoon (blade). Look for dents, breaks, or signs of photodegradation caused by ultraviolet rays. Such damage can weaken the oar, and you may need to consider replacement.
• Pay close attention to the blades or spoons. Feel for cracks, especially at the tips, and give them a squeeze to check for repairs. Mark the spots that need attention.
• If your oars have glued-on tips, check if they are secure and inspect the edges for any breaks, cracks, or splits. These issues need to be addressed promptly to avoid a sudden break during use.
• Listen for water sloshing inside the oars, which indicates a leak. This could be due to cracks or dents, so locate and address the source of the leak.

Storage and Handling:

• When not in use, store your oars in a rack off the ground to prevent damage and make them easily accessible for inspection.
• Keep wooden oars varnished to protect the wood and maintain their appearance.
• Avoid leaving oars in direct sunlight or harsh weather conditions for extended periods, as this can accelerate deterioration.

Safety Precautions:

• Always wear gloves when handling oars to protect your hands from potential splinters, especially if the oars are made of wood.
• Regularly inspect your oars for any sharp edges or protruding parts that could cause injury. File or sand down any rough areas to create a smooth surface.
• Ensure proper locking mechanisms are in place to secure the oars to the boat, preventing them from coming loose during rowing.

By following these maintenance and safety guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your oars, ensure a safer rowing experience, and enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions