Dragon boat paddle sizes correspond to the paddle length in inches from the tip of the blade to the top of handle. Your ideal paddle size depends on many factors. Every paddler has their own preference and every paddle manufacturer might have slightly different guidelines. As a new paddler, the best way to find your paddle size is to try different paddles. Paddling clubs usually have a few different sizes in their smorgasbord paddle collection that has accumulated over the years. Using the guide below, find your recommended paddle size based on your height and experience level. If you are experimenting with paddles, you can even choose one size smaller than the recommendation. Use it for a practice session and see how it feels. If your paddling club only has one size of paddles, ask a friend to borrow their paddle for a part of the practice in exchange for a protein bar.
Practice is the time to experiment with paddle sizes, not the races. Trying to adjust your stroke path and speed with a new paddle during a race is usually not a great idea!
If the paddle feels short and your stroke range is limited, try a longer paddle for the next practice. If you find your paddle is skimming the water on your recovery or if your top arm shoulder is over-extending, the paddle might be too long and you should size down.
It's important to know your paddle size so you can paddle with maximum efficiency. It can affect your technique, speed, and injuries. Also, you won't have to waste time standing at the paddle bin trying out every size while your team is marshalling right before your race. You should also be aware that the festival paddles can be a surprise. You might have wood paddles, fiber glass paddles, one size only, or a range of sizes but your size might not be available.
The most reliable way is to have your own paddle that you are accustomed to and you can depend on. Different length, weight, material, flex, construction, and balance of the paddle can change the feel significantly.
Other factors that you should consider for your paddle size:
- Arm length - Your arm length will affect how far you can reach. If you have long arms, try one size up. If you have short arms, try one size down.
- Torso length - Similar to arm length, your torso will affect how far you can reach. If you have a long torso, try one size up. If you have a short torso, try one size down.
- Seat Row - The boat is shaped like a banana so the middle seats (rows 4-7) will be closer to the water while the end seats (rows 1-3 and 8-10) will be higher on up from the water. Try a shorter paddle if you sit in the middle of the boat and a longer paddle if you sit closer to the ends of the boat.
- Stroke Rate - Each crew has its own stroke rate. For fast stroke rates, you want a shorter paddle for more agility and speed. For slow rates, go with a longer paddle so you can take longer strokes.
- Crew Weight - This one is simple. Heavy crew - use shorter paddle. Light crew - use longer paddle.
- Type of water - The boat floats better in salt water than fresh water. Try a shorter paddler if you paddle in salt water and a longer paddle in fresh water.
- Boat Manufacturer - At festivals and competitions, all boats need to meet IDBF specifications but there are still differences in the design and build of the boat that will affect how high you will sit relative to the water. Adjust your paddle size accordingly.
| <5'2" | 5'3" | 5'4" | 5'5" | 5'6" | 5'7" | 5'8" | 5'9" | 5'10" | 5'11" | 6' | 6'1" | 6'2" | 6'3" | 6'4"+ | |
| Novice (1-2 years) | 46 | 46 | 46 | 47 | 47 | 47 | 48 | 48 | 48 | 49 | 49 | 49 | 50 | 50 | 51 |
| Intermediate (3-5 years) | 46 | 47 | 47 | 47 | 48 | 48 | 48 | 49 | 49 | 49 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 51 | 51 |
| Advanced (6+ years) | 47 | 48 | 48 | 48 | 49 | 49 | 49 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 51 | 51 | 51 | 51 | 51 |
The sizing chart above is only a guide but it provides a good starting reference point as these are the most commonly used sizes based on height and experience level. In the end, it really comes down to personal preference. Some paddlers like short paddles and others like longer paddles. Experienced paddlers will have longer paddles because they have more mobility and strength. There is no exact formula but it is important to find a paddle that suits your body and paddling technique.
You can also try these alternative ways to initially size your paddle:
Sitting Test
- Sit upright on a flat surface (i.e. a chair or a bench)
- Stand your paddle up next to you with the paddle blade pointing down to your seat
- Raise your top paddling arm straight up to the sky
- The paddle handle should reach the centre of your palm.
Standing Test
- Stand on a flat surface
- Stand your paddle up next you with the paddle blade pointing to the ground and the handle tucked under your arm.
- The top of the paddle handle should reach 3 fingers below your armpit.