We have progressed from wider to narrower boats and succumbed to the whitewater and British influences. Now we are seeing shorter shaft lengths. Our most popular selling sizes are 230 and 235 cm in a medium sized blade. Blade shape is simple. The wider blade will pull more water than the narrower blade.
Wider blades offer more forgiveness for bracing.
If you like to paddle in rough conditions then a wider blade will require feathering earlier. If you have wrist, elbow or shoulder problems stay away from wider blades. Therefore wider blades work well for stronger paddlers looking for a workout or who like to paddle rougher conditions. Bigger blades can really impress your paddling partners at the beginning of the trip when you are miles ahead of everyone. As the trip progresses your body will complain.