The size and finish of your surfboard are important features, but many shoppers overlook the fins. These fixtures might be small, but they have an enormous impact on how your board cuts through the water, and some are better suited to different surfing conditions. Below are a few aspects to consider when comparing options for your custom surfboard.

How to Find the Right Surfboard Fins

1. Consider the Type of Board

The right fins for you depend on the surf conditions, your own preference, and the type of board you have. Putting smaller fins on a board will give you a looser, more maneuverable experience. In the same way, larger fins can lend some stability to a surfboard that might be a little too loose for your taste. Larger fins also work well on boards with wider tails or short surfboards if you like riding larger waves.

2. Choose the Right Shape

The rake, or the amount of curve a fin has, can change the way your surfboard rides. Putting fins with lots of rake on your board will give it more stability and more drawn out turns, so you may not be able to make as tight of turns at high speeds as you may like. A more vertical, less raked fin, makes your board more maneuverable and exciting with a tighter turning radius, but it can also feel wild and unpredictable.

The width of the base also affects how your board responds in the water. Longer-base fins channel more water through, giving you the speed to keep up with larger waves. However, fins with a shorter base are best if you like making sharp, fast turns.

3. Surf Conditions

If you’re surfing closer to the beach, using more vertical fins (less rake) will give you the ability to make tight turns before hitting the sand. They're also a great option if you need to keep up with racy waves that break quickly. On the other hand, if you prefer big, lazy waves, more rake might be the better choice.

As the state’s largest custom surfboard supplier, Surfboard Factory Hawaii in Kapolei, HI, provides tailored, personalized gear to surfers across the country. Whether you’re just starting out or have been surfing for years, their team will provide a board tailored to your unique needs. Visit their website to browse their selection of custom surfboards, get tips and advice on Facebook, or call (808) 543-2145 to start designing your board today.