A paddle leash is used to keep from loosing your paddle during a roll-over or when the waters and winds get rough. Basically when you need it most. They also add the convenience of not having to hold your paddle all of the time. Some people choose to allow their paddle to float beside them while fishing, taking photos or enjoying a quick snack. Because of their light weight, paddles tend to float away faster than a person in a kayak or canoe. If you happen to be by yourself this can be a big problem. Typically leashes will attach around the paddle with a Velcro strap and then either to the kayak or your wrist. There are pros and cons of both and the decision of which type is best for you is a personal preference.
Leashes attached to the kayak or canoe are usually 48" long, but shorter versions are available as well. You want to choose a length that will attach to the kayak or canoe but still allow for full rowing strokes. If you need to attach yours to the front of the kayak a longer version is probably going to be best. If you want to attach it within or around the cockpit, a shorter leash might be better. Too long an the excess cord gets in the way. Too short and your rowing strokes will be restricted. A good solution is a coiled leash. These allow for the length you need but the excess is re-coiled when not needed making them a nice upgrade.
Wrist leashes are popular as well. As the name implies this type of leash is looped around the wrist and tightened or secured by some sort of locking mechanism. Many water enthusiasts prefer the wrist leash because the cord can be shorter and thus out of the way. If you like to take a lot of pictures or plan to do some fishing, the wrist leash can be somewhat cumbersome. However if your planning on a long and rough paddle adventure, the wrist leash is a good choice.
The are many uses for the leashes outside of securing a paddle. Our customers use them for their fishing rods and other equipment. In the event of a roll-over, whatever is not secure will most likely float away or sink to the bottom of the lake or river. Leashes can secure dry bags, first-aid kits, life vests, shoes and clothing, key or whatever else you need while on your trip.
We offer leashes in about every style and configuration you can imagine. If we do not have what you need, please let us know and we can probably make it. All of our items are made right here in the USA and we do a lot of research and testing on the products we offer. Since we use them ourselves and we have a large base of product testers, you can be sure our leashes will perform when you need them most.
Leashes attached to the kayak or canoe are usually 48" long, but shorter versions are available as well. You want to choose a length that will attach to the kayak or canoe but still allow for full rowing strokes. If you need to attach yours to the front of the kayak a longer version is probably going to be best. If you want to attach it within or around the cockpit, a shorter leash might be better. Too long an the excess cord gets in the way. Too short and your rowing strokes will be restricted. A good solution is a coiled leash. These allow for the length you need but the excess is re-coiled when not needed making them a nice upgrade.
Wrist leashes are popular as well. As the name implies this type of leash is looped around the wrist and tightened or secured by some sort of locking mechanism. Many water enthusiasts prefer the wrist leash because the cord can be shorter and thus out of the way. If you like to take a lot of pictures or plan to do some fishing, the wrist leash can be somewhat cumbersome. However if your planning on a long and rough paddle adventure, the wrist leash is a good choice.
The are many uses for the leashes outside of securing a paddle. Our customers use them for their fishing rods and other equipment. In the event of a roll-over, whatever is not secure will most likely float away or sink to the bottom of the lake or river. Leashes can secure dry bags, first-aid kits, life vests, shoes and clothing, key or whatever else you need while on your trip.
We offer leashes in about every style and configuration you can imagine. If we do not have what you need, please let us know and we can probably make it. All of our items are made right here in the USA and we do a lot of research and testing on the products we offer. Since we use them ourselves and we have a large base of product testers, you can be sure our leashes will perform when you need them most.
Guide created: 27/11/09 (updated 05/05/12)

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