The tool used to paddle a boat is called a paddle. It is a handheld tool with an elongated handle and a flat, widened distal end (i.e. the blade), used as a lever to apply force onto the bladed end. It is different from an oar as it is not attached to the boat and is completely handheld. Paddle boats are human-powered watercraft propelled by the action of pedals turning a paddle wheel. Paddle steamers are steam-powered boats that use a large steel framework wheel with paddle blades fitted to the outer edge, which rotates to produce thrust and propel the craft forward or backward.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Name | Paddle |
Description | A handheld tool with an elongated handle and a flat, widened distal end (i.e., the blade), used as a lever to apply force onto the bladed end. |
Usage | Used to propel a human-powered watercraft by pushing water in the direction opposite to the direction of travel (i.e., paddling). |
Similar Tools | Oar |
Differences from Similar Tools | An oar is attached to the watercraft via a fulcrum, while a paddle is completely handheld and supported by the paddler. |
Variations | Canoe paddles, kayak paddles, racing paddles |
Materials | Wood, fibreglass, carbon fibre, metal |
Parts | Shaft, handle, blade |
Additional Features | Crank, reflective tape |
What You'll Learn
A paddle is different from an oar
The stick used to paddle a boat is called a "paddle". However, paddles are often confused with oars, which are also used to propel boats. While similar in shape and function, there are several differences between the two.
Firstly, a paddle is not attached to the boat, but is instead held completely in the user's hands and supported by the paddler. In contrast, an oar is attached to the boat via a fulcrum or oarlock, with the boat's sides acting as a fulcrum for the rowing motion. This means that the motion of oars is controlled by the legs, knees, and arms, while the strokes of a paddle are controlled by the user's torso.
Secondly, paddles can be both single-bladed, like canoe paddles, and double-bladed, like those used for kayaking. Oars, on the other hand, are always single-bladed and are usually used in pairs, with one oar on each side of the boat.
Thirdly, the position of the user relative to the direction of the boat's motion differs between paddles and oars. Paddles propel the boat in the same direction that the paddler is facing, allowing the user to see where they are going. On the other hand, oars propel the boat in the opposite direction of the rower, resulting in the user travelling backward.
Fourthly, the type of watercraft that uses paddles or oars varies. Paddles are typically used for kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand-up paddleboards, while oars are commonly used for Jon boats, rowing boats, sculls, and sweep-oar boats.
Fifthly, the construction and materials used for paddles and oars differ. Paddles are often made from lightweight materials such as aluminium, fibreglass, or carbon fibre, although traditional canoe paddles may be made from hardwood. Oars, unless used for competitive rowing, are usually made from hardwoods such as ash.
Finally, the physical effort and muscles engaged when using paddles or oars differ. Rowing with oars requires the use of the entire body, with a focus on the arm, back, and leg muscles. Paddling, on the other hand, primarily uses the core muscles, including the abdominals and obliques, with the back and arm muscles supporting the movement.
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Paddle steamers
A paddle steamer is a steamship or steamboat powered by a steam engine that drives paddle wheels to propel the craft through the water. Paddle steamers were first developed in the early 19th century and were the predominant mode of propulsion for steam-powered boats at that time. However, by the late 19th century, they were largely superseded by more efficient marine propulsion systems, such as the screw propeller.
Today, paddle steamers are mostly used for tourist voyages and are often powered by diesel engines. There are three types of paddle wheel steamers: stern-wheelers, with a single wheel on the rear; side-wheelers, with one wheel on each side; and inboards, with the paddlewheel mounted amidship. All three types were used as riverboats in the United States, particularly on the Mississippi River. Stern-wheelers, in particular, were widely used in North America after being invented in Europe.
One of the first successful steamships was the Palmipède, built in France in 1774. However, it was the Charlotte Dundas, launched in Grangemouth in 1803, that is recognised as the world's second successful steamboat and the first towing steamboat. It demonstrated the practicality of steam power for ships. In 1812, the first U.S. Mississippi River paddle steamer began operating out of New Orleans.
While paddle steamers have largely been replaced by more modern vessels, they still have a niche in tourism and cruise industries, particularly on lakes and rivers. Some notable examples include the PS Waverley, the last seagoing passenger-carrying paddle steamer in the world; the PS Enterprise, a fully restored and operational paddle steamer in the National Museum of Australia; and the SS Hjejlen in Denmark, which has been in operation since 1861.
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Paddle boats
A paddle is a handheld tool with an elongated handle and a flat, widened distal end (i.e. the blade). It is used as a lever to apply force to the bladed end. In the context of boating, a paddle is used to propel a human-powered watercraft by pushing water in the opposite direction of travel. This process is known as "paddling".
Paddles are commonly used in canoes and kayaks, and they can be made of various materials such as wood, fibreglass, carbon fibre, or metal. The paddle typically consists of a shaft with a handle on one end and a rigid blade on the other. Kayak paddles differ in that they have a blade on each end and are handled from the middle of the shaft.
Now, let's talk about paddle boats. A paddle boat, also known as a pedalo or pedal boat, is a human-powered watercraft propelled by the action of pedals turning a paddle wheel. Paddle boats are particularly suited to calm waters and are often found on ponds, small lakes, and beaches.
The earliest record of a paddle boat can be traced back to Leonardo da Vinci's diagram of a craft driven by two pedals. Over time, paddle boats have been used for various purposes, including transportation, military operations, and tourism. In the early 19th century, paddle wheels were the predominant form of propulsion for steam-powered boats. However, by the late 19th century, they were largely superseded by more efficient marine propulsion systems, such as the screw propeller.
Today, paddle boats are still used in some parts of the world for tourism and recreational purposes. They are often hired out for leisure trips, providing a unique and relaxing experience on calm waters.
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Paddle length
The length of a paddle is an important factor to consider when kayaking. The paddle length depends on two primary factors: the width of your kayak and your height. The wider the kayak, the longer the paddle needs to be. Taller people will also need longer paddles, especially if the boat is narrow.
If your paddle is too short, you may hit your hands on the kayak's sides or be forced to lean with your strokes. Conversely, if the paddle is too long, it can cause extra strain on your shoulders and make it difficult to control the kayak.
For recreational kayaks, which are wider, a longer paddle is necessary to reach the water easily. In contrast, touring and sea kayaks are narrower, so a shorter paddle is adequate.
The type of paddling stroke also influences the ideal paddle length. High-angle paddling involves more vertical strokes and is typically faster and more aggressive. For this style, a shorter paddle is used. On the other hand, low-angle paddling employs more horizontal strokes and is better suited for relaxed, long-distance kayaking. A longer paddle is recommended for this style.
Additionally, factors such as the paddling pace, boat design, seat position, and the paddler's height can also determine the optimal paddle length. For instance, a taller person in a kayak with a high seat position may require a longer paddle.
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Paddle materials
A paddle is a handheld tool with an elongated handle and a flat, widened distal end (i.e. the blade), used to propel a human-powered watercraft. The term "paddle" can also refer to the rotating set of paddle boards used to propel a steamboat, or "paddle steamer".
Paddles are different from oars, which are attached to the watercraft via a fulcrum, or oarlocks. The paddle is held completely in the user's hands and supported by the paddler.
Paddles commonly used in canoes consist of a wooden, fibreglass, carbon fibre, or metal rod (the shaft) with a handle on one end and a rigid sheet (the blade) on the other end. Canoe paddles are typically about 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 m) long.
Paddles for use in kayaks are longer, with a blade on each end, and are handled from the middle of the shaft. Kayak paddles are about 7-9 feet (2-2.7 m) long. Many modern paddles are made of two pieces that can be snapped together in either feathered or unfeathered settings.
Cheaper kayak paddles have an aluminium shaft, while more expensive ones use a lighter fibreglass or carbon fibre shaft. Some paddles have a smaller diameter shaft for people with smaller hands.
The weight of a paddle is also an important factor, as lightweight materials improve performance. It is not uncommon for a kayak paddle to be two pounds (32 ounces, or 910 grams) or less, and very expensive paddles can be as light as 22 ounces (620 grams).
Wooden paddles are considered by many to be the most aesthetically pleasing. They are also relatively lightweight, at about 2.5-3.5 pounds (1.1-1.6 kg).
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Frequently asked questions
The stick used to paddle a boat is called a paddle.
A paddle is held in the user's hands and completely supported by the paddler, whereas an oar is primarily supported by the boat through the use of oarlocks.
Paddles are commonly made of wood, fibreglass, carbon fibre, or metal.
Canoes, kayaks, and paddle steamers or paddle boats are examples of boats that use paddles.