: Folks around my size vary their paddles a bit, don't they? It's not
: by much, from the results of the survey... length varies by a
: few inches, but it must come close to averaging 86". Loom
: size looks to average above 19"... maybe around 21".
: Even the width varies, though a quick glance makes it look like
: longer paddles usually have thinner blades.

: I assume it comes down to personal preference?

To a large degree, it does. If I was going to make a "generic" GP "test" paddle for an adult American male, it would be 86" with a 21" loom and 3 1/2" blades with 1/2" high, 45 degree shoulders. That's probably a great starting point and from there the size shape can be adjusted to suit on subsequent paddles, once enough experience is gained to have an idea of what may work better.