how to determine oar length?

[chris whitney]

Any words of wisdom on selecting the proper oar length for a sneakbox?

 

[Steve Sanford]

Chris~


There are formulae at various sites on-line. You might want to try Shaw & Tenney in Orono, Maine.


Question: What is the distance between the oarlocks?


BTW: You will most likely want oars that are 6.5 or 7.0 long.....


SJS

 

[Capt Rich Geminski]

Good oars and oar locks are a must. I have a great pair now and its easy to row. Have a west marine pair that are terrible, but you get what you pay for...

 

[SJ Fairbank]

Steve is correct, check Shaw & Tenney but choose a slightly short pair. In other words if the formula says 7', buy 6.5'. The reason for this is that the oarlock holders on a sneakbox are close to the water compared to a rowboat of similar beam, so a one size formula calculates a slightly long oar for a sneakbox. The longer oars end up almost horizontal when feathered and hit you in the knees or drag in the water.

 

[Tom Whitehurst]

Another consideration is storage, see if they can be stowed in the cockpit.

 

[Phil]

If they are for your Estuary, I had 6'ers to stow on deck under dodger with the paddle end aft. But for more power you would want 7'ers and they will fit under the deck.
Phil

 

[chris whitney]

thanks guys!!