Hi Jake,  I can not speak for small hands, but you ar correct in the fact that the paddle can make or break your kayaking and kayak fishing exprience.  Of cource, paddles vary in type and cost.  Its no wonder that the better / lighter paddles cost more money.  But there are plenty of mid range paddles that are fairly reasonable in cost and weight  and will not cause you to want to stop kayak fishing just out of the launch site.  Also make sure that you get someone to size the paddle for her.  Yes, paddle size also has a specific mention in this because too long a paddle can be as big as a problem as one that is too heavy.  It also maks a difference as to what lenght your paddle is in reference to the kayak she will paddle.  So make sure that you go to a good place to get your paddle, get one that is of good quality, but dont go broke purchasing one.  All of the stores around, WRO, Blur RIdge, ARC, and even Dicks and Bass Pro Shops have some of the mid range, mid cost paddles. these paddles are mostly made of carbon fiber shafts and the paddle blade are carbon fiber / plactic composite for toughness.   So check those out.  As for the paddle grips, I am sure that they can only help.  Good luck and tight lines to you and your wife.

Darrell

For sizing paddle shafts measure from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger. If it measures 6 1/4" or less go with a small shaft. 7 1/2" or more go with the regular shaft. Those in between should try both and see what feels most comfortable.  The average paddler takes around 50 strokes a minute. In an hour of paddling that is about 3000 strokes, weight makes a big difference. Your body is the "engine" and the paddle is your "transmission", buy the best paddle you can afford and you won't regret it. WRO, ARC, & BRMS should all have small shaft paddles in stock.

Aaron