Angle Oar Paddle: Kayaking for Disabled and Seniors
Author: Angle Oar, LLC
Published: 24 Nov 2016 - Updated: 17 Jul 2021
Contents: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Related Publications
Synopsis: Angle Oar is a paddle for recreational kayakers, kayak anglers and paddlers with strength or endurance limitations.
The range of motion and torso rotation required to propel the kayak are significantly decreased, making the system ideal for people with shoulder or back injuries, partial paralysis or other health conditions that limit their endurance, such as asthma.
Introduction
The company behind the newly patented paddle for recreational kayakers, kayak anglers and paddlers with strength or endurance limitations has announced the official launch of its flagship product, Angle Oar.
Main Content
The Angle Oar paddling system consists of a mount that can be attached to most sit-in and some sit-on-top kayaks, a short post that supports the paddle, and the kayak paddle itself. The mount and post carry the weight of the paddle, resulting in less joint stress on the shoulders, elbows and wrists. The range of motion and torso rotation required to propel the kayak are significantly decreased, making the system ideal for people with shoulder or back injuries, partial paralysis or other health conditions that limit their endurance, such as asthma. The paddle can also be use by a person with only one upper limb or limited hand flexion.
The versatile Angle Oar can be used in three different modes:
- As a traditional straight paddle, ideal for entering and exiting the water;
- Straight and on the mount, best for when the paddler wants to alleviate stress on their shoulders or when water conditions are choppy; and,
- Angled and on the mount, for the most energy-efficient experience and when the water is calm.
The Angle Oar shaft and blades are made of fiberglass. A locking pin on the center of the shaft is used to adjust the paddle to either the straight or angled position. Each shaft also features a push button with three positions so that the shafts can be independently lengthened or shortened depending on the width of the kayak or, for example, to compensate for windy conditions.
The paddle length ranges from 205 to 240 centimeters, making it a perfect starter paddle for kids or one that can be used by different members in a rental group or family.
The mount uses RAM Mount components and the track system is compatible with other RAM Mounts, Scotty and YakAttack accessories such as rod holders or camera. When not in use, the Angle Oar system can be easily removed.
"It's took us longer than anticipated to get to this point where we can finally offer our paddle to the public," said Meg McCall, founder of Angle Oar, "but we really wanted to get the mounting system just right. Now that we've accomplished that goal, we'll soon be releasing some related products that will broaden the kayaking market even further."
Several adaptive paddling, parks and recreation, and physical therapy programs had advanced access to the Angle Oar.
One paddler, Jamie Perron, is an artist in her mid-30s. Fifteen years ago Perron was hit head-on by another car which resulted in her being a C3-4 quadriplegic. She now has minimal movement of her arms with a lot of muscle weakness and very little trunk control.
"I couldn't believe how much of a difference having the Angle Oar made, but it did, and seeing how far I was able to travel by myself is the proof," says Perron, who paddled, unassisted, for 75 minutes on her first outing with the paddle. "I will NEVER go back to using a regular oar. I can't wait to get back out on the water in the spring!"
Attribution/Source(s): This quality-reviewed publication was selected for publishing by the editors of Disabled World (DW) due to its relevance to the disability community. Originally authored by Angle Oar, LLC and published on 24 Nov 2016, this content may have been edited for style, clarity, or brevity.