What is a wide bladed oar?

A wide-bladed oar is a type of rowing implement characterized by its broad, flat blade at one end, designed to provide increased surface area for propulsion through water. This design allows for more efficient power transfer from the rower to the water, making it suitable for various watercraft, including canoes and larger boats. Wide-bladed oars are particularly effective in slower-moving or still waters, where greater resistance is encountered.