Selecting the correct oar style for your watercraft is essential for an optimal rowing experience. The right oar enhances efficiency, comfort, and performance. Here's a guide to help you make an informed choice.
1. Determine the Appropriate Oar Length
Achieving the proper leverage ratio is crucial for effective rowing. A commonly recommended ratio is 7:18, meaning 7 parts of the oar are inboard (inside the oarlock) and 18 parts are outboard (outside the oarlock). We have created an oar size chart where we have done the math already. If you like a small challenge, you can also do the math yourself
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Measure the distance between port and starboard oarlock sockets: This is called the "span." Divide the span by 2, then add 2" to get the inboard loom length
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Apply the formula:
For example, if the distance between oarlocks is 48 inches:
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Inboard Length = 48 inches ÷ 2 = 24 inches, plus 2", equals 26" inboard loom length
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Total Oar Length = (26 inches × 25) ÷ 7 = 92.8". Round up or down to the closest 6" increment, in this case, 92", or 7' 6" length oars. If you prefer an overlapping grip, round up.
This calculation ensures the oar provides the proper leverage for efficient rowing. Sized correctly, on your return stroke your hands will be 1-3" apart and you will be pulling directly towards your abdomen.
2. Understand Blade Configurations
Oar blades come in various shapes, each offering distinct performance characteristics:
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Flat Blades: These traditional blades are about ¼ inch thick at the end and feature a prominent rib running from the throat to about one-third down the blade. They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of boats, especially those with flat or flatter bottoms, such as dories, prams, skiffs, and aluminum fishing boats.
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Shaw and Tenney Spoon Blades: Characterized by a curved design, spoon blades are approximately 20% more efficient than flat blades. They are ideal for boats with rounded bottoms and fine entries, like Whitehalls, wherries, canoes, and some rowing and sailing dinghies. The curvature allows for a smoother stroke and better propulsion.
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Wide Blade Spoons: These have a shorter blade with the widest portion at the tip, moving the center of effort farther down. They are performance-oriented, best for speed and exercise, but may be less forgiving in rougher water compared to traditional spoon blades.
3. Consider Hull Shape and Rowing Conditions
The design of your boat's hull significantly influences oar performance:
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Rounded Hulls: Benefit from the enhanced efficiency of spoon blades, making rowing smoother and more effective.
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Flat-Bottomed Hulls: Typically do not gain much benefits from spoon blades; flat blades are often sufficient. If you plan on rowing long distances, however, consider spoon blades.
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Mixed Hulls: Boats like peapods, which have characteristics of both rounded and flat hulls, may see some advantages with spoon blades. Consider spoon blades if you plan on rowing long distances.
Additionally, consider the typical water conditions you'll encounter. For rougher waters, traditional spoon blades are more forgiving, while wide blade spoons are better suited for calmer conditions where speed is the priority.
4. Material Selection
The material of the oar affects its weight, durability, and performance:
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Spruce: Eastern red spruce is lightweight and strong, making it ideal for general rowing purposes. A 7-foot spruce flat blade oar weighs approximately 2¼ pounds.
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Ash: Heavier and more robust, ash oars are suitable for rough conditions, such as rocky environments or when pushing off the bottom is necessary.
5. Personal Preference and Testing
Ultimately, personal comfort and rowing style play significant roles in oar selection. If possible, test different oar styles and lengths to determine what feels best for you and complements your watercraft's characteristics.
For personalized assistance, feel free to contact us at Shaw & Tenney. We're here to help you select the perfect oar for your boating adventures.
