Stroke angle

There are several terms used to describe various stoke angles.

• High Stroke - also called vertical, power, even whitewater stroke. This stroke is performed with the shaft angle near vertical during the stroke. The upper hand stays high. This stroke is associated with aggressive, powerful strokes, as used in acceleration and racing.

• Low Stroke - also called horizontal, touring or sweep stroke. This stroke is performed with the paddle shaft angle near horizontal during the stroke. This stroke is associated with easy, gentle paddling and cruising. The term "sweep" in this context is a bit confusing, as it can be confused with the sweep stroke used to turn the kayak. The low stroke is considered less efficient, since the sweeping action causes the kayak to yaw with each stroke, whereas the high stroke generates less yaw and more forward motion.

There are, of course, many angles that you can use between the highest and lowest stroke angle. Feel free to adopt the one that is most comfortable for you. It is a good thing to be able to do a high stroke on demand, as it is the most powerful - you never know when you'll need it.