Gear Explained: Parts of a Canoe Paddle

To help you differentiate your grip from your tip, here are the parts of a canoe paddle:

Grip: The end you hold on to. Grips come in different shapes, from pear (above) to T, and other variations.

Shaft: Can be straight or bent. Come in different lengths and materials.

Throat: Where the shaft and blade meet.

Blade: The wider, flatter part that propels you. Can be long and narrow, short and wide, or something in between.

Tip: The end of the paddle you put in the water.

See Choosing a Paddle»

See Paddle Reviews and Information»

(Illustration by Sarah Lampe.)