The missus is after a new paddle (after using my lightweight carbon paddle she is over her 650gm paddle) . She does a lot of flat water paddling cruising (up to 2 hours long).

What paddle width is best suited for this type of paddling?

She will want:
- a small, light blade + a light thin shaft: less than 400g weight
- check that the shaft is not too stiff, to prevent tendinitis
- a handle she likes (these are personal preferences)
- no volume in the blade (volume give some stability for beginners, and gives better leverage in surf turns, but it is less efficient for paddling)
- a blade design to reduce flutter (side to side movements): a dihedral shape or a ridge or...

As for specific brand/model, I do not know enough brands to offer any advice

Quickblade have a great reference chart here. www.quickbladepaddles.com/our-paddles.html

Thanks for the advice guys. Much appreicated.