The paddle: the first link between paddler and sea
On a journey lasting several days, the choice of paddle has a direct effect on comfort, fatigue and the pleasure of paddling.
Voyage Kayak has used Werner paddles on many of its trips for many years. Their light weight, carefully controlled stiffness and wide range of blade shapes make it possible to equip paddlers with different builds, techniques and habits.
We do not give everyone the same paddle. The aim is to find a coherent combination of paddler, kayak, daily distance and preferred paddling style.
Why we use Werner paddles
When you repeat several thousand paddle strokes in a day, a few grams and a well-matched blade make a real difference. Most of our Werner fleet is made up of carbon models, chosen for their low weight, efficiency and comfort over long distances.
Asymmetrical dihedral blades encourage a clean entry into the water and reduce unwanted movement. Two-piece paddles make transport easier, while the adjustable ferrule allows the angle between the blades to be set according to the paddler’s preferences.
Voyage Kayak chooses and purchases this equipment for its practical qualities. This page shares our experience; it is neither sponsored advertising nor a sales catalogue.
High Angle or Low Angle: two strokes, not two skill levels
These two families refer mainly to the path of the paddle. They do not describe beginner or expert practice: each one corresponds to a different stroke technique and feel.
High Angle: a more vertical paddle stroke
The shaft passes more vertically and the blade works close to the kayak. This stroke provides a firm catch, power and good responsiveness for acceleration, support strokes and changes of direction.
In our fleet, the Shuna, Cyprus and Corryvrecken belong to this family. The Shuna and Cyprus have intermediate-size blades that offer a useful balance between power and endurance; the Corryvrecken provides a larger, more powerful blade for paddlers looking for a stronger catch.
Low Angle: a more horizontal paddle stroke
The shaft remains more horizontal and the blade travels farther away from the kayak. This technique encourages a steady, relaxed cadence, which is particularly comfortable during long days on an itinerary.
The Camano, Athena and Little Dipper suit this style. The Camano has a versatile intermediate-size blade; the smaller blades of the Athena and Little Dipper can suit paddlers looking for a steady cadence and less fatigue on each stroke.
The best choice also depends on the width of the kayak, paddle length, hand size, physical condition and any sensitivity in the shoulders or wrists.
Six complementary models in our fleet
We favour a few well-known models rather than an unnecessarily broad range. Together, they cover most of the needs we encounter on our trips.
Werner Shuna
High Angle · intermediate-size blade. Versatile and responsive, the Shuna suits paddlers looking for a good catch without choosing an especially large blade. It is effective for both forward paddling and manoeuvring.
Werner Cyprus
High Angle · intermediate-size blade. Light and smooth in the water, the Cyprus is for paddlers who enjoy a more vertical stroke while retaining a progressive catch and good comfort over time.
Werner Corryvrecken
High Angle · powerful blade. The Corryvrecken is for paddlers looking for a firm catch and power when accelerating, manoeuvring or operating in more demanding conditions. Its blade area calls for an appropriate level of technique and physical commitment.
Werner Camano
Low Angle · intermediate-size blade. A very versatile paddle for long-distance sea kayaking. Its blade area provides enough power while allowing a regular, economical cadence.
Werner Athena
Low Angle · small blade. The Athena reduces the effort required for each stroke. It can be particularly useful for smaller paddlers or for anyone who prefers a softer feel and a slightly quicker cadence.
Werner Little Dipper
Low Angle · small blade. The Little Dipper favours a smooth, economical stroke. It can be appreciated during long days on the water or by paddlers who want to keep the effort of each stroke moderate.
The composition of our fleet may change. Every model, length and shaft type is not necessarily available at every destination.
A paddle matched to the paddler
Before departure, we consider your height, experience, the kayak you will use and the way you paddle. The length should allow a clean catch without forcing you to raise your shoulders excessively. The shaft diameter should remain comfortable in the hand, especially for smaller paddlers.
A straight shaft offers a classic grip and more freedom in hand placement. An ergonomic shaft, which is slightly bent, can help some paddlers keep their wrists better aligned. It is not automatically a better choice: personal habits and sensations remain decisive.
The angle between the two blades can also be adjusted. A short session on the water helps find a natural orientation, which can then be changed if wind, technique or comfort require it.
The equipment provided on our trips
When a trip is organised with our own fleet, a suitable paddle is provided with the kayak, personal flotation device and spray skirt. On destinations where we use a local base, the brand and model may be different. The Road Book for each trip specifies the equipment planned.
If you have a strong preference, very small hands, a previous injury or particular sensitivity in your shoulders or wrists, tell us before departure. We can anticipate the model and length as far as the equipment we transport allows.
Our kayak rental service also includes a paddle. The exact model depends on availability, your build and the kayak rented.
Before you leave
Can I request a specific model?
Yes, you can tell us which model you prefer. We will do our best, but the trip logistics, number of participants and available lengths mean that a particular model cannot always be guaranteed.
Can I bring my own paddle?
Yes, once the transport constraints and programme have been checked. For a trip involving air travel, you should anticipate the packing, baggage dimensions and conditions imposed by the airline.
How do I know whether a paddle suits me?
First impressions are useful, but comfort is judged mainly after several hours. A suitable paddle should allow you to maintain a relaxed technique, without excessive tension in your hands or unusual strain in your shoulders.
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Browse the Touring range on the official Werner Paddles website