START PADDLING.
STAY PADDLING.
We designed our adaptive kayaking equipment with the goal of keeping our customers as independent and active as possible, for as long as possible.
So whether you thought you had to give up kayaking due to shoulder injuries or diminishing strength, or you've never kayaked before in your life, we hope our adaptive sports equipment gets you out on the water.
HOW IT WORKS
CHOOSE A PADDLE: VERSA PADDLE OR YOUR OWN
Review the features of Versa and Gamut, check out the chart above, and decide which is best for you. Think of these options as being on a continuum, where the Gamut Holder provides stress reduction for people with moderate strength or mobility issues and the Versa Paddle System assists those with more significant mobility or strength limitations.
CHOOSE A MOUNT
Next, identify what type of kayak you have. We have different mounts to fit different types of kayaks and SUPs, from sit-inside to angling kayaks. Not all mounts fit all styles, so review our Mounts page to learn more. If you're not sure, you can always email us with a photo of your kayak and we'll help you decide.
ADD NECESSARY ACCESSORIES
Consider whether stabilizing outriggers would give you more peace of mind, whether you'd like a paddle or accessories bag for your new equipment, or whether you want to add a paddle strap to your Gamut purchase. If you need other adaptive kayaking products, consider downloading our free guide to identify what you might need.
ENJOY EFFORTLESS PADDLING
Get to know your new equipment. Review our tips, practice changing the shaft positions on dry land, and subscribe to our Assembly and Maintenance Tips playlist on YouTube. Why not consider taking a safety course refresher before you head out. Then, enjoy the freedom and independence you'll experience with your new system.
OUR PRODUCTS IN ACTION
Versa and Gamut are extremely easy to use, but it may take a little practice at first since the stroke patterns are slightly different than with a freeheld traditional paddle. That's due to the pivoting motion of the mount. Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it in no time!
DIFFERENT STROKES
The Versa shafts can be angled downward to roughly 25 degrees, which somewhat resembles a sweep stroke, or straightened to 180, approximating a forward stroke. That's about where the similarity ends!
Use a nice, wide grip to get the maximum pull of the blade through the water on each side.
TRY ALL THREE MODES
Straight and off the mount is ideal for entering and exiting the water with your Versa Paddle. Use Versa straight and on the mount when you want less stress on your shoulders or when water conditions are choppy. Use it angled and on the mount for the most energy efficient experience and/or when the water is calm.
TRY THE THUMB PIN
Get to know how the Versa adjusts from angled to straight. Test the thumb pin on dry land first to get the hang of it. Lift the left shaft up to take the pressure off of slotted pin so you can adjust the paddle from angled to straight and back.
EXPERIMENT
There are three quick release buttons on each of Versa's shafts. Try shortening and lengthening the shafts for different conditions. Experiment with paddling backwards and practice turning.
Try a "push and pull" method of stroking the paddle, then try a "grip" technique. Keep a gentle, downward pressure on the paddle to prevent it from lifting off the post.
Though Angle Oar offers several critical adaptive paddling products, we don't carry all the items you might need to adapt your kayak. We have linked to several high-quality manufacturers throughout this site that make related products. We have only list products that we truly believe in and work well with our products. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.