Handmade Wood Greenland Paddles
Greenland
Norsaq
Decorative
Storm
Handcrafted from solid or multiple woods
Bring your love of kayaking indoors
Not just for harpoon throwing
My work is rooted in function, feel, and tradition. Greenland paddles were developed by Inuit hunters who depended on their equipment for survival in cold, demanding waters. Their designs evolved over generations to be quiet, efficient, and gentle on the body — qualities that remain just as relevant for today’s paddlers. My goal is to honor that lineage while creating a paddle that fits you and your kayak.
Welcome to CJW Paddles!
I’m a kayaking enthusiast with an appreciation for the elegant simplicity of Greenland-style kayak paddles. Every paddle I make is handcrafted to order using time-honored techniques, carefully selected woods, and a level of attention to detail that mass-produced paddles simply can’t offer.
Makes a terrific spare paddle
Which paddle is right for you?
Why Handcrafted Greenland Kayak Paddles?
Each Greenland paddle is made by hand from solid wood or carefully laminated combinations of woods, chosen for strength, weight, flexibility, and beauty. Unlike factory paddles that are built to generic dimensions, a custom Greenland paddle is sized to your body, kayak width, and paddling style. The result is a paddle that feels like a natural extension of your arms.
Paddlers often discover that Greenland paddles offer:
A smooth, quiet catch with excellent control
Reduced strain on shoulders, elbows, and wrists
Outstanding performance for touring, rough water, and rolling
A warm, natural feel that only wood can provide
Whether you’re transitioning from a Euro blade, have years of experience with traditional paddles, or are new to kayaking, a properly sized Greenland paddle can transform how you connect with the water.
Request your no-obligation quote for a Greenland paddle.
Why Choose a Storm Paddle?
Storm paddles are shorter Greenland-style paddles, traditionally used as a spare or heavy-weather tool. Compact and powerful, they are ideal for strong winds, confined conditions, or as a deck-mounted backup paddle. Ideally suited to the Slide Stroke, Storm paddles are also used for development of Greenland rolling skills. My storm paddles are built with the same care, balance, and attention to detail as full-length Greenland paddles.
Request your no-obligation quote for a Storm paddle.
What are Norsaq Rolling Paddles?
The Norsaq is a traditional Greenland paddle, often misunderstood as merely a throwing stick. While their original primary purpose was to add power to harpoon throws during hunting expeditions, in reality, they have evolved into a highly effective training and rolling tool that teaches precise body mechanics, balance, and blade awareness. Many paddlers find that practicing with a Norsaq improves their rolling confidence and overall paddle control.
Each Norsaq is handcrafted for proper balance and feel, making it suitable for both traditional practice and modern rolling instruction.
Request your no-obligation quote for a Norsaq paddle.
Want to Bring Kayaking Indoors with Decorative Paddles?
Decorative paddles bring the beauty and heritage of kayaking indoors. These paddles are inspired by functional Greenland designs, but created specifically for display. They make meaningful décor for homes, offices, cabins, RVs, and boathouses. They are especially popular as gifts for kayak enthusiasts.
Request your no-obligation quote for a Decorative paddle.
Made to Order, Built for You
Every paddle from CJW Paddles is custom made to order. I work closely with each customer to create a personalized paddle that incorporates length, loom size, blade width, wood choices, and finish. No two paddles are exactly alike — each one reflects both traditional design principles and your personal vision.
Whether you’re an experienced sea kayaker refining your technique or just beginning your journey into paddling, my aim is to help you connect with traditional kayaking and the history behind every stroke.
Connect With the Tradition
A Greenland paddle is more than a piece of equipment; it’s a connection to centuries of practical design, refined by real-world use in some of the harshest paddling environments on Earth. I’d be honored to help design and build a paddle that’s truly unique to you.
Contact
My name is Chris, owner and Chief Paddle Officer ("CPO") of CJW Paddles. To learn more about my handmade paddle offerings, please visit my Products page where you can select and configure your perfect paddle product. I'm here to bring your paddle dreams to life. For all other inquiries, please reach out to me using the form below.
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