: Shorter or longer?

: I use a 220 carisle and it bites hard and the shorter length is close
: in..does good.

: I have a 240 cm day tripper with a softer bite the stroke is longer and
: softer..also does good.

: The longer stroke means the paddle is in the water longer which i think is
: good for stability in chop.

: whats the ideal length? I am 6' tall. What about in a wider sit on top
: at 28" beam. Would you want a longer paddle for that?

: I'm looking for what is the general concensus then will try things out some
: more. I keep both of those on board.

When I was a youth the rule of thumb was the paddle should be of such a length that with the tip of one blade on the ground the other should comfortably fit into one's crooked fingers with arm raised above the head. That would mean differing lengths to suit differing heights.

Experience has shown though, that beam, freeboard, boat length and the boat's turning ability all play a part. In general I prefer a longer paddle for a longer boat, especially if it sits high in the water. Actually, in general I prefer a longer paddle because I am a lazy bastard and I can move my arms less.

Etienne