So instead, many paddlers use the words interchangeably. If you’re only interested in the short answer: oars are used for rowing, while paddles are used for paddling. Oars also attach to the boat, and paddles don’t. However, there are also differences in the shape, purpose, technique, and the type of boat you would use it with.

Oars propel you backward, while paddles propel you forward. Oars are attached to the vessel, while paddles are not and are held in your hand. Oars have just one blade, while paddles can have one or two blades. You can use either one or two oars at a time, while you always use one paddle.