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Video: Badger Paddles jigs for determining correct paddle length

I've used the 90° method to size paddles for students for decades, in every case it got them in the ballpark with a useable length, from that point they could move on to what felt good to them. Even when buying if it didn't feel "right" it at least gave them a functional spare to use in case something happened to their favourite paddle after they developed their skills to the point that they could feel the difference.
 
That is a good way to find the shaft length that fits your body. You have to keep in mind that your paddle has to fit your boat too.

My 57” Badger Tripper is half shaft and half blade at 28.5” each. It fits me perfectly but it doesn’t give me enough leverage for my 18’ and 20’ boats. When in the bigger boats or if it’s exceptionally windy I’ll switch to a 60” at least. When that’s not enough I’ll grab my “spare” paddle at 72”.

With a longer paddle I’ve had to change my recovery and entry to keep my hands low.

BTW, Mike at Badger used part of my review of a one of his paddles in the testimonials on his web site.
 
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