Dragon Boat Paddles: Choosing The Best Blade

Dragon boat racing has been a competitive sport since the early 1990s, and its popularity has been steadily increasing. Dragon boat paddles are uniform in size and shape, but manufacturers can get creative with the materials used. The best dragon boat paddle will be light, strong, and comfortable. The blade should be durable and the handle should be ergonomic.

There are several options available for dragon boat paddles, including wood, fiberglass, and carbon. Carbon paddles are strong, lightweight, and durable. Some popular carbon paddle options include the Z&J Sport Adjustable Dragon Boat Paddle, the KIALOA Yin Yang Dragon Paddle, and the BRACA-SPORT Dragon Paddle.

When choosing a dragon boat paddle, it is important to consider the size and adjustability of the paddle. The length of the paddle can vary depending on the user's height, torso length, and shoulder width. It is recommended to try out paddles of various lengths to determine the ideal size. Additionally, the handle design is an important factor, as it affects the user's grip and control.

Adjustable paddles

When it comes to dragon boat paddles, there are a variety of adjustable options available that offer both versatility and performance. Adjustable paddles are a great choice as they can be tailored to the user's needs and preferences, allowing for a more customised and comfortable paddling experience.

One notable option is the Zen Carbon Adjustable paddle by Kialoa. This paddle offers 6 inches of adjustability, ranging from 45 to 51 inches, ensuring you find the perfect length for your boat and seating position. The Zen Carbon paddle is designed for serious racers, featuring a lightweight and strong construction with a superior strength-to-weight ratio. The shaft is made from pre-preg 3K carbon weave, while the blade is built to IDBF specifications with a thin tip for a smooth catch.

Another reputable brand, Hornet Watersports, offers a range of adjustable paddles such as the Headway X29 Sting+, Sticker Adventure X27 Sting+, and Kraken X26 Sting+. These paddles are priced at $229.99 and offer adjustability options to suit different users and boat configurations.

Additionally, the Braca Dragon paddle by BRACA-SPORT, the world's top sprint paddle company, offers an adjustable shaft option. Their paddles are made from 100% carbon fibre, ensuring lightweight and durable construction. The adjustable shaft system allows for elegant length adjustments within a 5 cm range and also enables disassembly for convenient transportation.

Lastly, Burnwater USA offers adjustable paddles in their Reactor III series, featuring advanced engineering and materials. The paddles are fully handmade in California and offer 3 inches of travel adjustment, catering to different user preferences and seating arrangements. The Reactor III series is IDBF PS202a Certified and boasts features such as One Piece Construction, Halo Core Technology, and FluidForm Design.

With these adjustable paddle options, dragon boat enthusiasts can find the perfect fit for their needs, ensuring a more personalised and enjoyable paddling experience.

Paddle weight

Carbon fibre paddles are often recommended for their lightweight properties. The Z&J SPORT Adjustable Dragon Boat Paddle, for instance, is constructed entirely from carbon fibre, resulting in a sturdy yet lightweight paddle. Weighing approximately 14.46 ounces (410 grams), it offers a competitive advantage with its strength and durability. Similarly, the Braca Dragon Standard paddle is also advertised as lightweight, although its exact weight is not specified.

While lightweight paddles offer agility and reduced fatigue, it is important to consider the trade-offs. Some heavier paddles, such as those made from wood or fibreglass, may offer advantages in terms of durability and impact resistance. For example, the Kialoa Yin Yang Dragon Paddle features a hybrid design with a wooden shaft and a carbon blade, combining the benefits of both materials. This paddle provides a comfortable grip and a strong, durable construction.

Ultimately, the decision on paddle weight depends on the individual paddler's preferences and requirements. Some paddlers may prioritise lightweight construction, especially those seeking speed and agility. Others may opt for slightly heavier paddles that offer a more solid and impact-resistant construction. It is worth trying out paddles of different weights and materials to determine which option feels most comfortable and aligns with your specific needs.

Paddle shape

The shape of a paddle is determined by IDBF regulations, which must be complied with for championship events and racing. The blade size of an IDBF-approved paddle is 18.9" x 7.09" (18cm x 48cm). The blade should be thin at the tip to allow for a knife-like catch. The handle can be oval-shaped, providing a more traditional, smooth feel. Alternatively, a carbon T-curved handle gives maximum control over the blade during sharp turns, making it a good choice for SUP and outrigger racing. The T-handle can also have a slight finger indention, which, when combined with an oval paddle shaft, makes it easier to grasp during paddling and maximises strength.

The paddle should be lightweight, strong, and durable. It should be easy to adjust and custom lengths should be available. The paddle should also be comfortable and provide a secure grip. The bottom grip part near the blade should be oval for comfort during use. The blade edge can be reinforced with carbon filament to make it more resistant to collisions.

Paddle materials

Dragon boat paddles are usually made of wood, fiberglass, or carbon. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it's up to the paddler to decide which one suits them best.

Wooden paddles are traditional and offer a comfortable grip, but they may not be as lightweight or durable as other materials. Fiberglass paddles are known for their impact strength, but they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other options.

Carbon paddles are the most popular choice for competitive dragon boat racing. They are strong, lightweight, and durable. Carbon fibre is also a good option for those who want a more aggressive stroke. Additionally, carbon paddles with an adjustable length feature allow for a more versatile range of motion. However, carbon paddles may be more prone to cosmetic imperfections and might require special care to avoid dents and scratches.

Hybrid paddles, such as those made with a combination of wood and carbon, offer a blend of the benefits of each material. For example, a paddle with a wooden shaft and a carbon blade can provide the comfort and traditional feel of wood, while also offering the strength and lightweight performance of carbon.

Paddle length

The IDBF limits paddle lengths to a range of 42-51". KIALOA offers Dragon paddles in half sizes as well, such as 46.5 and 47.5. The Zen Carbon Adjustable paddle has 6 inches of adjustability from 45 to 51 inches.

The Braca Dragon paddle is available with an Adjustable Shaft System, allowing for elegant adjustment of overall paddle length within a 5 cm range. The system also allows for disassembling the paddle for transportation.

The Z&J SPORT Adjustable Dragon Boat Paddle has a length range of 43-52 inches.

Paddles can also be custom-ordered for special lengths, such as those offered by Burnwater, which offers custom lengths for an additional $20.

Frequently asked questions