Regardless of the model of straight or bent shaft paddle you have selected, the size should be determined by the shaft length rather than the overall length.

The following formula applies: The shaft length should equal the distance from one's shoulder to the waterline of the canoe. To determine this distance, sit erect on a chair and measure from your chin to the seat. Add 6" to this figure to get the approximate shaft length.

Thus, someone whose chin to chair measurement is 26" would add 6" to come up with a 32" shaft length.* This is equal to a 52" Touring Bent Shaft, a 54" to 56" Sugar Island or a 58" Chieftain.

* This figure represents a rough guide from which a plus/minus 2" comfort range should be considered. Also, canoe seat placement will affect shaft length.