Pack Boats and Single Blade Paddles: A Perfect Match

Andrew Rasmus
May 29
4 min read

Updated: Jul 12

Pack boats are a versatile and popular option for solo paddlers seeking a lightweight, stable, and comfortable vessel for backcountry trips or casual outings. While most paddlers opt for a double-bladed low-angle kayak paddle due to its speed and efficiency, a single-blade paddle can be an excellent alternative. This is especially true for those who value tradition, technique, or frequently paddle in narrow or obstacle-filled waters. Here's how and why you might use a single-blade paddle with a pack boat, along with tips for maximizing performance and comfort.

Why Use a Single Blade Paddle?

1. Traditional Canoe Feel

Using a single blade allows you to engage in classic canoe strokes like the J-stroke, C-stroke, and draw strokes. You may already be experienced in these techniques or simply prefer them over the double blade. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the slower, more deliberate style of canoe travel.

2. Improved Maneuverability at Low Speeds

Single-blade paddling offers more nuanced control, especially at low speeds or in tight quarters. You can more easily execute prys, draws, and other corrective strokes that are useful in winding waterways or while approaching a landing.

3. Lighter and Simpler

A single-blade paddle is often lighter than a double blade. This makes it easier on the shoulders over long periods and reduces overall pack weight. It also takes up less space and is easier to store or portage.

Choosing the Right Paddle

For the best results with a pack boat, consider these features when choosing a single-blade paddle:

Length: Opt for a short shafted paddle, ideally a bent shaft. You sit about 8-10 inches closer to the water in a pack boat. You don’t want to raise your paddle above your eyes for a proper stroke, as this can stress your shoulders. A 48” bent shaft paddle, like the Bending Branches Java 11 or Viper, works well.
Blade Shape: A wider blade allows for easier cadence. It reduces fatigue with a lower hand position when resetting your stroke. Bent-shaft paddles can also improve efficiency by maintaining a more vertical blade angle through the stroke.
Grip Style: A T-grip provides control for technical paddling, while a palm grip is more comfortable for all-day cruising.

Sitting vs. Kneeling in Pack Boats

Pack boats are designed to have your center of mass lower, on the floor of the vessel. The higher you lift your weight, the less stable the boat becomes. Both the initial stability of the boat and its beam affect whether it's better to sit or kneel.

Sitting

When seated, the width of the boat can interfere with a proper paddle stroke. This may cause the stroke to arc more, requiring corrective action. If your goal is a more relaxed ride, this won't pose an issue. For a more performance-focused approach, a less beamy boat such as the 12' New Trick (25") is ideal for paddling from a seated position.

Kneeling

When kneeling, a beamier boat like the 12' Classic (30.5") is preferred. This design offers greater stability and control. Kneeling lowers your center of mass, which enhances stability and control. Using a prop block between your legs can improve comfort while maintaining weight close to the bottom of the boat. A simple solution could be a couple of yoga blocks or custom-made minicell foam pieces.

Avoid kneeling bars, as they introduce added stresses not accounted for in the boat's original design and elevate your weight too high on the hull.

"I leave the original Hornbeck seat in place and put my prop block on top of that. The seat helps reduce hyper flexion of the ankle. If I ever get tired of kneeling, I simply remove the block and sit down," says Andrew Rasmus. He prefers to kneel in the 12' Classic and sit in the 12' New Trick.

Boat Selection

When deciding which pack boat is best for single-blading, consider the following:

Are you kneeling or sitting?
Wider boats are more comfortable and stable for kneeling (the Classic line).
Skinnier boats allow for a more upright paddle stroke when seated (the New Trick line).
Is this your primary propulsion or a backup?
If the single blade is a backup or means to maneuver in tight spaces, it plays a lesser role in your overall choice.
Are you looking for performance or a relaxed ride?
The New Trick will be more performance-oriented and maneuverable.
The Classic line is more utilitarian and relaxed.

Technique Tips for Using a Single Blade

Using a single blade in a pack boat requires some adjustments in technique. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Switch Sides Strategically

Although the aim with a single-blade paddle is to minimize switching sides, doing so periodically maintains balanced muscle use and avoids fatigue. Use quick cross-over strokes or alternate every 10–15 strokes.

2. Use J-Strokes or Correction Strokes

A J-stroke helps correct your direction without frequently switching sides. This technique involves a subtle outward twist at the end of your stroke.

3. Engage Core Muscles

Effective paddling comes from your torso, not just your arms. Rotate your torso with each stroke to utilize larger muscle groups and paddle more efficiently.

4. Stay Relaxed

Pack boats are stable and forgiving. Focus on smooth, steady strokes rather than power. Keep your grip relaxed and maintain a consistent stroke.

When It Works Best

Single-blade paddling is ideal in these situations:

Quiet lakes and calm rivers
Short to moderate distances where efficiency is less crucial than comfort or tradition
Trips including portaging, where a lighter paddle is beneficial
Cold or wet conditions where staying dry is a priority

Conclusion

While the double-blade paddle often remains the default for many pack boat enthusiasts, the single-blade paddle offers a graceful, effective, and enjoyable alternative. With the right technique and equipment, you can enjoy the best of both canoeing and kayaking worlds. Whether you're navigating a mirror-like lake at dawn or slipping silently down a winding stream, a single-blade paddle adds a timeless, satisfying rhythm to your pack boat adventures.

So the next time you load up your pack boat, consider packing a single blade. With a little practice, you might just find it’s the only paddle you need.