Fin Flex
We have covered some of the basics in our first fin article so now lets continue and talk about Fin Flex. Fin Flex is the amount of movement of a fin from side so side. The stiffer the fin, the less movement from side to side, the less the Flex.
Stiffer / Lesser Flex
- Reaches maximum flex during a turn.
- Releases quicker leading to quicker turns.
- Less Drive.
Greater Flex
- Takes longer to reach maximum flex.
- Longer to release.
- Greater Drive
Fin Foil
Fin Foil is the curve of the fin from front to back and tip to base. The Foil and fin thickness determines how much and where on the fin that flex takes place when turning. Different foils give the fin its different performance characteristics.
On a single fin surfboard and the middle fin of a shortboard the fin will have a foil on both sides of the fin. This ensures the fin reacts evenly when turning in both directions.
The outside fins on a tri fin surfboard will have a foil on the outside and will be flat on the inside. The middle fin works like the fin on a single fin surfboard. The outer fins with the flat inside can release quickly when transferring from rail to rail.
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