Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Your First Surfski Paddle

Getting into surfski paddling is an exciting ride — fast, fun, and addictive. But one of the most overlooked pieces of gear for new paddlers is the paddle itself. Your paddle is more than just a tool — it’s your engine. Choosing the right one can completely change your experience on the water, especially when you're just starting out.

Here’s what you need to know before making your first paddle purchase.

1. Understand Blade Shape

Paddle blades come in various shapes, but for beginners, a mid-sized teardrop blade is a great starting point. It provides a smooth entry and balanced power throughout the stroke, making it easier on your body while you build your technique.

Brands like Gara, Orka, and Jantex offer excellent options with different blade sizes suited to beginners and pros alike.

2. Consider Adjustable vs Fixed Shaft

As a beginner, an adjustable paddle is ideal. It allows you to experiment with:

• Length (to suit different boats or conditions)
• Feather angle (the twist of the blade)

This flexibility helps you refine your comfort and technique as you progress. Once you’ve dialed in your preferences, you might later invest in a custom fixed-shaft paddle.

3. Think About Weight & Material

Lighter paddles reduce fatigue and strain, especially during longer sessions. Most high-performance paddles are made from carbon or carbon blends, which are strong, light, and responsive.

If you’re unsure what to go for, chat with us — we’ll help match your paddling goals and frequency with the best materials for your budget.

4. Fit Matters

The wrong paddle can lead to sore shoulders, wrist strain, or just an inefficient stroke. That’s why we always recommend getting fitted properly, especially if you're new to paddling. Your height, arm length, boat setup, and stroke style all play a role.

At Ocean Stoke Sports, we help you choose paddles that support your technique and protect your body from unnecessary wear and tear.

5. Try Before You Buy (If You Can)

If possible, test a few paddles at a local event or demo day. What feels great for one paddler might not work for another. The right paddle will feel natural, light in your hands, and efficient through the water.

Your first paddle is one of the most important investments you'll make in your surfski journey. Choosing the right one means less fatigue, faster progress, and way more fun on the water.

Need help finding the perfect match?
Reach out to us or browse our full range of Orka, Gara, and Jantex paddles online.