Choosing the best longboard fins can make a huge difference to your surfing experience. Thinking through the setup and design and the other essential factors might be easy to some, but for most, it’s not. With so many longboard fins in the market, figuring out which one to suit your longboard might be tough. We want to help you look for the right fin for you. So, keep on scrolling!
Table of Contents
The Top 7 Longboard Fins Reviews
- Santa Barbara Surfing 10″ Surf & SUP Fin
- Ho Stevie! Quad Surfboard Fins
- BPS SUP & Surf Center Fin
- Own the Wave Tri Fin
- FCS FK-2 Performance Core Twin Fins
- UPSURF 5-pieces Surfboard fins
- Coreban Edition 2+1 Longboard Future Fins
#1. Santa Barbara Surfing 10″ Surf & SUP Fin
Having a longboard, surfboard, or a stand-up paddleboard will make this fin a good purchase. This fin is compatible with a longboard with universal sizing that ranges from 8.5″ or 10.5.” However, the fin is incompatible with Bali Solstice, AquaMarine SPK2, and other inflatable SUPs, if you have those. See the full compatibility chart for more details.
It comes free of tools or screws, so installing the fin on your longboard is quicker and done without any hassle. This gives you more time to enjoy the waves.
The materials used are glass-filled nylon, which is firmer than the only fiberglass and close to a plastic fin. Through the help of the built-in classic foil, it performs an excellent hold in all conditions. You can safely paddle on flat waters, do fast turns, and ride the nose. Besides, it has a medium built and rake for more exciting fin template exploration.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stays firm on boards | Needs some tools for installation |
| Enhanced compatibility |
|
| No hassle installation |
|
| Excellent versatility |
|
#2. Ho Stevie! Quad Surfboard Fins
A set of quad fins help to reach maximum performance on surfing. These ones are well-suited with any FCS surfboard, whether a shortboard, funboard or a longboard. They come with everything you need, such as tools, wax, fin key, bottle opener, and travel case. The construction is very lightweight, and that is one reason it easily fits on the said surfboards.
They require the use of tools to pull them together with excellent security.
The fins can go through all types of waves. They can quickly drive down the line, launch aerials, and can do wild turns on the water. These are a result of the honeycomb fiberglass design with the perfect amount of flex. As a result, the fins become responsive and fast throughout the longboarding experience.
The company offers a one-year warranty which replaces a broken fin for free throughout the year.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent customer reviews | Issue of snapping off |
| Super lightweight construction | Incorrect sizing |
| One-year warranty |
|
| Complete package |
|
#3. BPS SUP & Surf Center Fin
BPS SUP & Surf Center Fin is a single fin that suits all SUPs and longboards that are 8 to 10-inches in size. Longboards with US-style and universal fin boxes are also compatible with this fin. It works well in balancing speed and maneuverability, especially when installed right. It has no required tools to put it together but can be fixed without difficulty.
You can buy the fin with complete convenience as it includes plate, wax comb, bottle opener, and hex key. It is all covered with a 12-month warranty just like Ho Stevie! So, whenever you encounter quality issues, just let the company know to help you out.
It is made with a combination of fiberglass and reinforced nylon composite materials. This ends up with an ultra-strong and flexible fin. It is built with foil template that makes the fin easy to paddle and track as the board stays straight like an arrow.
You can effortlessly perform gliding, noseriding, and not-so-wild turning through this fin.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to install | Too snug |
| One-year warranty | Fragile construction |
#4. Own the Wave Tri Fin
You can own the wave by using the Own the Wave Tri Fin which exerts an excellent performance. Everyone can experience it without breaking the bank. Behind those dealings is a yearlong warranty you could enjoy. For added convenience, the low-cost purchase includes a wax comb, bottle opener, and hex key.
It is a triple fin that fits on surfboards that can match with FCS-style fins. Just click on the link to see the exact measurements of the fins. This fiberglass and reinforced nylon-made fins are assembled by using the included appropriate screws. It is responsible for providing excellent stability and control that any surfer level could ever look for.
Until now, Own the Wave Tri Fin is continuously gaining positive feedbacks from the costumers. It could be a perfect option for most advanced longboarders. The colors available are white and black that greatly suits all surfboard color designs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Less costly than the prior longboard fins | An issue on the missing third fin |
| Complete package | Extremely sharp edges |
| Easy to set up |
#5. FCS FK-2 Performance Core Twin Fins
If a single fin doesn’t work out, you can try using double fins for more effective boarding experience. This fits on FCS Fin System longboards which are widely available in the market. The fin’s cost might be higher than the previous longboard fins, but it renders more freedom and comfort for maneuverability.
It is designed with a modern look which is why most boarders love it. The design matches all longboard design. The dual fins are medium in size that is made of 80/20 foil and more flex to deliver the best performance you could ever imagine. It is, therefore, best for smaller surfers because of its compact structure.
Just like the other FCS fins, these fins use Performance Core materials that aren’t as heavy as traditional fiberglass fins.
The uniqueness of these fins is found in its edifice that is smaller than the usual fins.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide range of compatibility | Quite expensive |
| Flexible | Some quality issues |
#6. UPSURF 5-pieces Surfboard Fins
Placing fins on your surfboard sometimes depends on your mood. It also rests on the different surfing skills you want to execute. UPSURF Surfboard fins offer 5-pieces of honeycomb board fins in one package. You can choose the offered four color options at a very reasonable price. The fins are compatible with future fin system
The fins are made of high-quality mixed materials with fiberglass case for better toughness. It makes smooth turns and very strong and flexible in all wave conditions. Additionally, UPSURF applies a new linear flex spec with 3D twist and roll action for smoother feels over the current. This can go on a wide range of conditions, either beach or point breaks.
UPSURF Company is very accommodating at any product and service issues for all the buyers. All questions asked about the product are compassionately entertained by giving a satisfying answer.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reasonable pricing | Cannot turn into quad fins |
| High-end fins |
|
#7. Coreban Edition 2+1 Longboard Future Fins
The last product is under the 2+1 fin-type, which we’ll talk about later. There are only a few fins like this because of its relative “newness” to the market. We’re lucky to show you one of the few future fins from Coreban.
It is available in two color options, which are blue and green to suit your board’s scheme easily. The price isn’t shown at the time of reviewing the product, but it is more likely an affordable one. It fits on most longboards and SUPs, and it is very versatile when it comes to fitting. The fin matches future fin boxes for installation. The center fin is measured 7″ in height with two side bite fins.
The fin will give you the freedom and smoother surfing experience, so give it a try.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly compatible | Not a widely known brand |
| Versatile | |
Our Top Pick
Our top pick is the Ho Stevie! Quad Surfboard Fins with the Santa Barbara Surfing 10″ Surf & SUP Fin as the runner up. Both come from known surfing product brands. They perform very well in the waters at their maximum potential.
The Ho Stevie! Quad Surfboard Fins is a well-matched fin for FCS surfboards at a quad number of fins. It comes in a complete package with a very light construction yet can overcome all types of waves. With the help of its honeycomb fiberglass design, more advanced longboarding tricks could happen like wild turns and aerial exhibitions. The only downfall is that some buyers experienced incorrect sizing.
The second-best longboard fin is the Santa Barbara Surfing 10″ Surf & SUP Fin. It’s still a good product by all means. In terms of compatibility, these fins provide a chart showing a complete list of its proper matches. You can install the fins pretty easily, even without the use of tools. However, some people complain about using extra tools during the installation. It is made firm in all conditions due to the materials used during the production. Fast turns and excellent paddling is what it does perfectly.
We hoping this post gave you a wider picture of the best longboard fins the market could offer. But we’re not done yet, check out the buying guide below to get the right fin for your longboard now.
Longboard Fin Size
The fin’s size relies on three things – the boarder’s weight, board’s size, and types of waves. For example, if you’re less than 165-pounds and having a smaller board, you might get a medium size fin.
Below is the complete fin size chart:
| SIZE | WEIGHT (LBS) |
| Grom | <100 |
| XS | <120 |
| S | 105-155 |
| M | 145-195 |
| L | 165+ |
| XL | 190+ |
Longboard Fins Buying Guide
In picking the right fin, there are lots of factors you’ll need to consider. The following information might be familiar with advanced longboarders but not for the beginners. And so, pay attention.
Different Types of Longboard Fins
Single Fin
It is the most traditional fin for longboards. This works best in control, predictability, and stability but not for too many turns. Wild turns with a single fin may not render you an easy maneuver.
Double Fins
Double fin is the complete opposite of a single fin when it comes to turning and maneuverability. This renders more playful feels in surfing over smaller waves rather than wild waves. It performs extra speed.
Tri Fin
Modern-day surfing is now using thruster or tri fins which fits on most sizes of surfboards. The setup is in a triangular formed with two fins near the center and one fin near the tail. It increases speed, stability, and maneuverability. You can alter tri fins into single or double fins.
Quad Fin
This has the power to accelerate speed by channeling the water to the board’s tail end. It performs like a thruster set wherein the outer and inner fins to add speed and stability. It is suitable for both big waves and driving through smaller line surfers.
5-Fin
It comes with five pieces of fins. Manufacturers included so not to use at once but to have an option to configure your board. These set of fins matches the user’s mood.
2+1 Fin
This is the newest fin configuration in the market of boarding equipment but now becoming popular. 2+1 Fin is comparable to thruster with three fins, but the center fin is longer than the other two fins. You can experience a single fin set up by positioning the fins closer to each other.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Longboard Fin
Having the best longboard fin isn’t all about the fin itself but also on more visible marks. Check on these three things before picking your desired longboard fin:
Your Longboard (of course)
There’ll be built-in fin boxes on your board. The fins will be installed on the fin boxes, and so more fin boxes give more fin positioning options.
Waves’ Condition
This part is sometimes neglected by many surfers, which is a great mistake. The edge of the fins has an effect on its performance on different wave levels. Less-angled fins are suitable for turning into tighter spaces. On the other side, a sharper leading edge on fins is designed for faster breaks.
You Surfing Level
There’s an appropriate fin structure that matches your surfing skills. Aggressive surfers need more of a bit inflexible fins to do sharp turns and to drive fast. Whereas, the more relaxed surfers are hooked on more flexible fin edifice.
Key Features For Longboard Fins
This section might loosen up the struggle in looking for the right fin for your longboard. The following are the key features a longboard fin must have to be considered as a good buy. Without further ado, let’s get it started!
Price
First, to consider in buying a product is your budget. Regardless of the cost, have more consideration of the fin’s quality.
Compatibility
Most longboard fins are completely compatible across many fin boxes. There are two compatibility features for fin products under Fin Control System (FCS), including:
Dual tab design: This uses up two tabs that are installed through screws. It is the most popular way of compatibleness that is widely available. Replacement issues are easier to accomplish at any time. However, it isn’t able to work well in high-stress situations.
Single tab design: As compared to the prior tab design, this is less popular. It can be installed with the help of screws in a bit more snugly fitting with a secure connection. Besides, it has a lightweight attachment.
Fin Shape
Fin shape contributes to the overall longboarding performance. There are four different shapes for fins, including:
Flex Fin: It appears with a broader base and a narrow tip with maximum flex. This results in more turns in every takeoff.
Rake Fin: It has a wider base too but with a bit wider tip with a medium flex. This enhances projection and maneuverability.
Pivot Fin: This one is for nose riding with its broad base and vertical outline. It offers very little flex that helps you to slow down while you’re up on the nose.
D Fin: This has no flex at all. It is the original surfboard fin with wide base and tip and large surface area. For better understanding, it is shaped like a letter D. This holds the trim down the line but can hardly make turns in a tight radius.
Fin Specifications
This talks about the parts of the fin from rake into its cant. Well-constructed fins are worthwhile and are widely available in today’s market. Each specification must be according to the surfer’s preferences.
Parts of a fin:
Rake. It is either a smaller or longer rake option. For someone who’s looking for extra speed, stability, and control, the prior is the best option. If you’re a fan of more playful turns, go for a fin with a long rake.
Tail. Balance, stability, and speed are enhanced if the fins are toed-in. This is the reason why a fin looks like a dolphin-tail to create pressure while surfing.
Base. It is at a 180-degrees angle that is fully connected inside the board. The longer its base brings hastier runs while sharper turns with a shorter base.
Foil. This part is measured through ratios on its sides, whether concave or flat. Flat-faced inner foil performs better balance, more speed, and great turns. Concave foil angle minimizes any drag and helps to boost the board.
Depth. It is defined as the height of the fin, which can affect stability. Taller fins are good in turns as well as in maneuverability. Surfers who are performing tricks or spins prefer using shorter fins because it is less stable.
Cant. This is the overall angle of a fin. Most fins are completely straight at a 90-degree angle which is alright to gain extra speed. Some do have a smaller than 90-degree angle for control responsiveness.
Materials Used
The durability of fins primarily hangs on the resources upon the construction of the product. Fins are made of either five of the following materials, such as:
Fiberglass
Traditionally, fiberglass is strongly popular in the making of fins. It is because of its toughness and flexibility regardless of the lightweight feature. Control and stability are the by-products of a fiberglass-made fin.
Composite Fins
While the prior is handmade, composite fins are factory-made. That means quicker production and hence, more availability. Composite fins are directly attached to surfboards. It doesn’t have the proper flex, which is very necessary for fins. And yet, lightweight and sturdy fin material.
G10 Material
This one is a cheaper alternative to composite fins. Mass production is possible by using only a mixture of epoxy and fiberglass material. It is more flexible and durable than the standard composite fin.
Performance Core Fins
The first three are using almost the same materials which alert some manufacturers to make a difference. High-grade materials, like carbon and Kevlar, are filled on a honeycomb shape fin core. This has no huge effect on the fin’s weight as it stays lightweight. Then, the outer core is wrapped with fiberglass for durability.
PC Materials and Fin Flex
Honeycomb isn’t the end journey of fin manufacturers as they continue to combine more various ratios of materials. It includes carbon, Kevlar, texalium, and other mixtures to end up with high-end fins. There’s more beauty in it and used by pro surfers all over the world.
Installation Process for Longboard Fins
Installing longboard fins is an easy tipsy process. With that, we’d still show you the step-by-step procedure to make sure you’re doing the right thing. It follows:
#1. Loosen up the fin box screws
This process is to allow sliding the fin inside the box. Just loosen it up not totally remove all the screws so that it won’t block the fin box’s bed.
#2. Know the proper positioning of the fins
Since multiple sets of fins exist, knowing the appropriate matching of fins into boxes is essential. Thruster fins have different fins arrangement compared to 2+1 fins as well as to quad fins.
#3. Final installation processes
The types of fins have an effect on installation. Let’s see it one-by-one.
FCS: Its two heads are inserted into the board’s slots. Then, gently screw them in.
Futures: This only has one slot which could be lined up into a plug. Loosen the screw and push it in then tighten the screw.
#4. Waggling check
This is to make sure that the fins are completely secure to avoid losing a fin.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Even after knowing most of the details about longboard fins, you still may have some questions. We have collected five frequently asked questions to help you out in picking the best product. It includes:
Q: Can you longboard without fins?
Q: Do fins affect longboarding performance?
Q: How do you improve the board’s speed by using fins?
Q: Which other boards are benefitted from fins?
Q: Which longboarding fin is recommended?
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G’day, my name is Rach Taylor and I’m the proud Founder of Surf Hungry. I am a former Australian Olympic athlete and Australian representative surf sports athlete. I’ve worked in the surf industry and lived at many of Australia’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which also rubbed off on my two young sons! I am also lucky to spend a lot of ocean-time in my favorite second home, Indonesia. In addition to SurfHungry I have founded several other websites in my areas of passion, namely coffee and rock climbing, and am also a regular rowing content contributor.
