Blade angle to the water at catch entry

Hi there I am struggling to find views on the correct blade angle relative to the water at catch entry. In other words the face of the blade itself - what is the ideal entry angle. Oscar suggests that it should be close to parallel to the water at the catch. Which means "face down"!

This is for a wing paddle btw.

Here's a 1 on 1 lesson on all the essentials of a forward stroke by Sean Rice. The part you're looking for starts at 2:55

Thanks!

gelliott wrote:

Hi there I am struggling to find views on the correct blade angle relative to the water at catch entry. In other words the face of the blade itself - what is the ideal entry angle. Oscar suggests that it should be close to parallel to the water at the catch. Which means "face down"!

Here's Oscar (at 9:37)



Sean mentions the importance of not cavitating. That's why he recommends entering the water with that edge of the blade.

Here's more detail on how not to cavitate, (at 8:00)

I think it also depends a bit on the shape of the paddle blade.

Some blades have a very pronounced spoon shape. Some are flatter.

Best to practise on calm water. If you hear a 'plop' then you are doing it wrong.
If you scarcely make a ripple, then you are doing it right.