K4 SUP fins

K4, who have revolutionised fin design and development in Windsurfing have now released a great line of SUP fins, K4 Team rider Reuben Ellis explains why you should be thinking carefully about your fin choice.

Over to Reuben…

Fins are the most underestimated and yet probably the most important part  of your equipment when paddleboarding in surf. Fins are responsible for making your board feel and perform the way it does. But there are so many fins available.. big, small, long, short, wide, narrow, straight, swept back, stiff, flexy. So how do you know which shape and size to choose for your paddleboard? Well…

Base width of a fin. The wider the fin at the base (front to back) will give you more drive and hold.

Size or depth of a fin. The general rule is a longer fin will give you more lift and drive and produce long drawn out turns. A shorter fin will have less lift and drive but be able to produce tighter turns and give the board a more twitchy feel.

Swept back fins have a direct influence on the boards pivot point. Fins with more sweep produce a longer turn, and less sweep produces a tighter turn.

Flex of a fin. Fins with less flex produce instant response, speed and drive. Fins with more flex are more forgiving and offer a whipping sensation.

When it comes to paddleboard surfing most boards are supplied with a 22cm center and 12cm side fins. If you have found that you have been riding your 10’5″ in the surf but now want try something new. Why not start playing around with your fins to change the feel of your board? It will be a lot cheaper than buying a new board! And probably just as much fun!

If you’re an average weight rider why not try a 16cm-18cm in the center? The board will feel lighter under your feet and allow you to make tighter turns. You could also try going even smaller. There is no right or wrong when it comes to fins. It’s all about personal preference and how you want your board to feel and perform in the surf.

Check out the K4 range at www.k4fins.com