Fin question--surfers

eric · Since 13 Jan 2006 1866 Posts XTreme Poster

Interested in playing with some tri fcs fins. Currently running inexpensive G5 which flex and really add a fun loose feel-- I like it over the more expensive fins. But, would replacing the rear g5 fin with a stiffer thinner foil allow me to push/drive the tail harder with out losing the looser feel of the flexy fins remaining on either rail? I'm trying to have my cake and eat it too

Eric

Windian · Since 28 Apr 2008 901 Posts Newport, OR NEWPORT OG

You get what you pay for with fins also. The new hi-tech fins with lightweight, hex construction really do perform better with added drive, stability and spring when coming out of turns.

I perfer Futures, but FCS makes good fins also.

TWIN-FIN · Since 24 May 2006 805 Posts Portland, OR Hot Monkey

Hey Eric
Fins are allot Numbers and equations.
There are so many different variables and everybody's description of feel is just that how "They Feel" and is often subjective to different interpretations based on the conditions and riders skill level. Having said that.

My experience with riding the same thruster style board Cabrinaha Skillit (I like to call it the S-Killit) for the last three years is that the smaller the fins have gotten and the more flex the fins have, I feel it makes the board ride more supple and more willing to do what you ask of it and still have the ability to smack the S$%t out of a nice wave/swell face.
Maybe more of the difference of driving a semi truck vs a motorcycle felling

It is my understanding and experience that looseness comes from rider position and technique with a little help from our fins.

Check out the fins on the new 2013 Cabrinha 5'6" Skillit. They are super sweet fins.
Go check out the flex so you know what Im talking about.

Again its just my opinion.

scottm · Since 12 Jun 2006 108 Posts Stoked

Yes, you can really change the feel of the board by changing fins. You will have to experiment to find the exact feel you want, but of the FCS fins, the K2.1 is one of my favorites (Kelly Slater signature model). I also really like the 5 fin sets, cause I like running a smaller quad trailer in the center, fast and loose like a quad but more settled and carvey like a thruster.

http://www.oregonsurfshop.com/fcs-fins-k2.1-pc-tri-fin-set.html
http://www.oregonsurfshop.com/fcs-fins-k2.1-pc-tri-quad-fin-set.html

Bargeslayer · Since 08 Jul 2012 100 Posts Stoked

To be honest, I've noticed bigger changes switching fin configurations (Quad/tri/twin/bonzer/single fin) than changing the fins themselves. The only time I really can notice a big difference is in big, top to bottom surf, which we don't seem to get much around these parts... Sad

I'd recommend getting a board with 5 fin boxes so you can try all of the above combinations-it can be pretty fun experimenting and you might discover parts of your surfing that you never considered experimenting with.

That being said, I tried Futures Vector fins awhile ago and was pretty impressed. They have a dual foil (curved on both sides instead of flat on the inside edge like most fins) I found that they had an insane amount of drive down the line, but that isn't really as much of an issue kiting. Just my 2 cents.