I ve done a lot of teaching up here in Ak with our packraft safety class: here’s what I ve determined:
never longer than 210; and 200 is better
Whitewater class III : short paddle 200 cm or less. I m 6 ft and I like my 196. Power is the important factor, and good vertical paddle angle. We get lots of students with 210, we give them 200 - 196, and it takes about 10 min for them to say, “wow, this is so much easier”.
Flat water and splashy: 200 cm to 210. Power not the big issue, trying not to get too wet from water on the blade is more the determining factor. Short paddles require one to be farily vertical, so lots of dripping on the arm and the lap.
If you have a 4 part break down that is too long: One can cut the blade end of the shaft down; redrill the hole for the paddle blade. We have done this on Auqabound yellow and black blade paddles, as well as Werner Powerhouse.
so, if I m paddling lakes, or very easy class II where no real demanding rapid, and I really do not want to be in a dry top or suit I go long; 200 +
like all equipment choice, need to decide which you do more of:
adventure treking with lake, class I and II - being dry
or
blood pumping: class III IV where control, power, are most important