Werner paddle at REI

Scott,

210 is the maximum length you will need for your packraft using an efficient high angle stroke.  Buy a Werner 4-piece in the range of 200 (WW primarily) to 210 (flat water primarily).

I have the paddle and quite like it. I use the extended length the flats and the shorter length in Rapids when I need a little extra pull.  I’ve put about 500 Backcountry kilometers on mine

I’d call a high-angle stroke powerful, but not efficient.  When sea kayaking, I want to keep my shoulders as low and as relaxed as possible and that’s easier with a longer paddle.  Likewise, I like a smaller blade – the large surface of a blade only helps for the first few strokes.  After that, a much smaller blade propels you just as well.

But I’m on flat and flattish water.  I want a stroke I can do for hours and I’m using a 210-, 215-, even a 220-cm paddle.  If you’re in real white water, you sometimes need to dig in deep, close, and pull hard on every stroke.  Then a shorter, larger-blade paddle is preferred.

Thank you for all the responses. I ended up going with the Werner.