High Angle Touring Paddles - Control, stability, confidence and power.

If you are buying your first serious paddle, this is usually my recommendation. High Angle Euro paddles generally have shorter, wider blades designed for a higher-angle stroke.

For beginner and intermediate paddlers, I believe they offer the best combination of: Control, Stability, Power, Confidence

They make learning: Basic strokes, Bracing, Turning, Stability, Surf handling, Leg drive, Torso rotation

…much easier.

My recommendation is to start with a high-angle paddle until you develop a really solid understanding of boat control and technique.
And you can importantly use a low angle paddling technique 
Then later, if you want to experiment, move into wings, Greenland paddles, or whatever calls to you.

Paddle Length Guide (source Werner Paddles)

Low Angle Touring Paddles - Efficient, relaxed, long-distance comfort paddling.

Modern traditional touring paddles are generally low-angle paddles. These usually have longer, thinner blades, loosely inspired by older Greenland paddle concepts. Low-angle paddles are extremely popular in North America — and I love paddling in North America!

They encourage a relaxed paddling style, efficient cruising, and long-distance comfort.

Perfect for: Recreational touring, Long relaxed expeditions, Energy efficiency, Casual distance paddling

However you can still use a High Angle paddling technique with these.

Paddle Length Guide (source Werner Paddles)