Fins and wave size

[stuzzy07]

I was just wondering if i is possible to surf in 2-8 ft. with the same fins or should the fins be changed according to size. And if so what fins for what size waves and why? still not sure about the whole fin set up thing. I've just been using the same fins no matter what the surf looks like....

[drowningbitbybit]

People dont usually change fins much because of the wave size, mostly because the board will be the limiting factor rather than the fins.

Potentially, it could make some difference though (and Im sure some people do it) as you can slow a board down, or make it looser by changing the fins, so if you were charging into a bigger wave than normal you might want to stabilise things, for instance. But mostly, if you're good enough that the fins need to be changed then you'd swap boards instead.

The only fin swapping I do for wave sizes is on my hybrid fish which runs a two and a half fin system, but I'll ride it as a twinny on really small waves.

[crepuscular]

Don't really see the point of changing the fins unless you really do feel the difference after fin change... i'm assuming you are riding a shortboard because you said catching 2-8ft, M3 and M4 fin setups should be fine

[surferdude_scarborough]

most people dont change their fins for conditions. the only exception is if its a really big day you might want some bigger fins in to add a bit more hold and drive.

i changed the fins on my littls shortboard to some foam core glass fins and it made one hell of a difference to the board. much faster and more hold. but i only had crappy composites in before.

[The Fafanator]

I've seen a video of kelly slater surfing 10ft teahupoo with K2.1's. But yes fins are a big, often overlooked factor. Basically you want a bigger fin in bigger conditions.

[O_Danny_Boy]

fins are a big, often overlooked factor

yes they are for someone with the skill/knowledge to notice the difference

im confident you have neither

[ANZAC]

Ill change fins often.
Usually I run the Carbon lite Kfins or M5's in medium to large waves and will change to 3's when its real small, - good for 360's and tails slides.
Fins can change a board dramaticly.

[Jimi]

Only time I change fins is when they fall out/get broken off.

I just use a different board to suit different conditions.

[TReMoR]

haha my board's previous owners just glassed on the fins

[northswell]

If your surfing 8ft your surfing big waves.

Depends on your style and ability.

Fin choice has lots of different facets so surface area, cant, foil, i could go on, makes a difference, if you can tell, get a sponsor.