I am a late bloomer, just started canoeing & camping. Can you tell me how to choose a flatwater paddle?

—Alice Aldridge

Annie's Answer:

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As a novice flatwater paddler, you have two directions to choose in this matter: art or efficiency.

If you're interested in the contemplative beauty of canoeing, then a traditional"beavertail" paddle will speak to you, and through you. These classic, straight-shaft paddles are generally crafted from one piece of ash, and evoke the tradition and indigenous nature of canoeing. They're sized fairly long — if you're standing, a beavertail paddle should measure nose-to-eyeball height.

If you favor efficiency, then a shorter, bent-shaft paddle is for you. This is what racers and long-distance paddlers prefer, and may be constructed of laminated wood or a high-tech material like carbon fiber. My loon-foot Zaveral weighs less than a pint of beer! A bent-shaft paddle's shaft length should be equal to your shoulder height to water level when seated in your canoe. One caveat to the bent shaft design: Never lend your paddle, because you won't get it back.