Saying this was helpful is an understatement, you're videos have been of extreme help. Keep it up! Also I'm 5'8 155 lbs so it's great to see a perspective of someone my size, even though you're far better than me haha
This is the best explanation on fins on TH-cam! For years i always thought smaller fins are better. Even though id lose speed in turns and could rarely connect roundhouses. I started riding large fins a month ago and im surfing so much better now!
I am one of the converts from our discussions on TH-cam, at 5'10 170lbs the move from medium to large has been such an improvement with my turning and drive. Again thank you for all of your information and expertise! ...oh, and using my old medium center fin really turned the grovel board on!
Your suggestion is EXACTLY what I do. I'm 5"10 and 180lbs. I surf a 6"1 small wave performance short, with Mick Fanning Large Outers and the spare centre fin (Medium) from a tri-quad set of Matt Mayhem's. On my big wave 6"6 I run Medina Large Performers, but honestly, I think the Fannings would be better suited here, too, perhaps utilising the full set incl centre fin. I really like the tight feeling, as I'm not a good enough surfer yet to get the best out of a twitchy, loose feeling 'pivoty' type of fin setup. I feel actually that the neutral Medina Performers tend to lean towards the twitchy side, rather than the tight drawn-out turn side. And the Fannings just have so much speed. Catch waves so easily without the drag of the Larger centre fin, too.
Finding the right set of fins can be very expensive. especially when the fins don't work?? OUCH!!! Mahalo for this video now I can experiment with what I already have and save me some cash!!!
Thanks man, rad stuff! I love your explanation of fins the effects of small changes and the knowledge of what our icons are riding and why + the key takeaway, how can it help the everyday surfer progress and get over speed bumps along the way. peace out
Jack Buckingham This was great, been searching for "learning to surf at 50" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Feyvid Surfers Semitist - (do a google search ) ? Ive heard some unbelievable things about it and my buddy got excellent results with it.
I tried out larger fins for a while but I don't shred quite like you. Seems like larger fins made it harder to cut back, let the tail slide out, wasn't having as much fun? Switched back to medium and I've been loving it.
Hi Noel & thanks for helping me pick my new set of FCS II FINS = ''The Performer carbon'' and after I got them I got to spot Gabriel Medina take the world Title shredding the Performers carbon model at pipe !! ha ,ha . Best Amigo
Liking your show Noel! Really fun to ride along and see all the boards and gear you guys are testing out. This is a cool vid as I've been playing with fins for the last year and I'm so surprised at how much fins can change how your board rides. I'm also surprised how much the "right" fins for you or your board is personal preference (like you're saying about riding large fins). I've played around and gone through a lot of different styles, dimensions, materials and feel pretty confident about what fins to choose depending on the board, conditions, or how I'm feeling for the day. Also wanted to leave the other readers with something Stretch pointed out about fins in an interview. He was saying that fins make up to 50% of the wetted surface of a board when it's on plane. So fins are a much bigger consideration than I think most of us think. Looking back, I really wish I'd experimented with fins a long time ago. I mean, I'm kinda pissed at myself for how many waves I must have caught and kinda wasted because I was riding crap/wrong fins. Like Noel said, have fun and try all kinds of fins!
Exactly the same height and weight as me...thanks for the tips. I'm playing with new quad fins for my baked potato and got a new single fin for my vernor. I've neglected to dig into fin combinations for a long time.
In essence he uses a large upright fin on his rail with a thin tip for release combined with a smaller back fin...its basically the same fin area but he is transferring the mass to the side for acceleration, power and hold when he engages his rail. This depends on how thick the rail is at 18 “ .The mass of the back fin is decreased to free up the tail. . In other words.He is using a moderate version of the twin fin -stabilizer concept . The problem here is so and so Joe pro is doing this, but neither you nor myself surf like said pro. You have to choose what works best for you.Dialing fins is a lot of work and can be incredibly frustrating and time consuming.BUT its rewarding. I would recommend trying a ton of different fins first ,taking mental notes as you go. before sticking with just this. The plan shape , rocker ,contours and mass displacement on each board varies .With the price of fins these days ,its best to experiment with cheap used plastic ,templates first off E bay . Also never sell or get rid of your fins.You never know when you will need them.
I’m confused at 0:54 because I thought you were saying that the bigger fin would make it less maneuverable but then right after it sounded like you said the opposite?
hello ccan u please review volume in surfboard construction when ordering a custom board for a 5'7" 145lb experienced old man who loves beach breaks!!!!
Noel, thanks for a greaaaat video! Hope you receive all those good vibes back, I bet you will. And I also think you would really like using Jordy Smiths Larges in the sides, and a medium of his in the center. A little more base than the AMs. And a little more flex, almost a straight 5 in the ride number and rakey as you like them. So a great mid point. Think it could work?
Hey. I know this video is old, but here goes. I really like my large JJF red tips in my Subdriver with Futures. I’m 180, 5’8 lower intermediate (51 y.o.) I surf mostly beach breaks in the LA area. But I’ve got a 6’4 Monsta Box in Hyfy that just feels a bit too responsive right now. Any ideas on a stiffer fin toning it down a bit until I get a better handle on the board? It’s FCS 2. I’ve got the MF’s in there right now. It works great, but sometimes it feels a bit squirrelly. Would the Pyzel be similar to the JJF’s? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks for all you do.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 When the waves are clean the MFs are great. I also use the MR twin plus trailers. Both feel magical. But when there’s some texture or bumps on the wave, I’d like something that feels a bit “sturdier,” if that makes sense.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you so much for taking the time to consider my question. I think I just needed time to get used to the board/ fin combo after switching around too much. After giving it a few more sessions, the MFs feel fine. Just really different from the feeling I have with my PU board/ JJF fins. Thanks again. Wish you continued success with the channel. 🙏
I’m currently riding the first FCS II PERFORMER PC fin set and am not sure if I should get the FCS II KA fin set that you have shown. I’m starting to progress and get turns down, but really don’t know if it’s worth it to switch to the FCS II KA set on my JS Monsta box HyFi..would love your advice
Luke Wohl The performers have less rake compared to the KA fins so they will pivot faster. The KA fins will have more drive and will offer a little more speed through turns. If you want the best of both carving and pivot then stay with your Performers. The KA fins is a great addition to your fin quiver... use your Performers in peaky surf and the KA’s when the waves are a bit more lined up.
Hi Noel, thank you for all the video's on boards, glad I found this one as I did not know much about fins. I'm 5'7, 142 lbs, what future fins would you recommend? I think I'm intermediate, can carve down the line, but want to improve my top/bottom turns and cut backs. Can do these turns but are slower, and not strong or placing right weight. I'm thinking medium, but not sure what ride number to go towards or which model? Would be great to hear your advice, thank you.
Y 1 If you can only afford one set of fins then I recommend a set of Medium honeycomb. I like the AM1 for carving... nice and loose due to a smaller center fin. If you a good neutral set... I also like the Dane Reynolds fins... by Captain Fin... more affordable and Honeycomb
Hey Noel, I have the F8 blackstix for small and mushier days, if u had to choose just 1 other set to keep in your quiver what would u get in futures? Maybe AM2 honeycomb for bigger faster days? What if you could get 2 more sets? Eventually I’ll add 2 new sets.. I’m intermediate, weigh about 195, and will be surfing mostly punchy beach break 3-5 ft, but will need something for 4-8’ + point break playa negra. Thanks so much for your help
Awesome explanation Noel! to clarify about Futures, I am 77kg 5'7 riding a dominator. Should I rely only on the ride number and get ALL large stiff fins for smaller surf? or to get a medium/smaller center fin like for FCS?
I like a smaller center fin with large side fins. All 3 L fins is way to tight. Check my signature fins… they are super unique. You will freak on how good they go. Nothing out there like them. I make them in Raked, Neutral, and Pivot templates. surfnshow.com/products/surf-n-show-thruster-rakes
Noel loving the advice, but I want to clarify: if you ride bigger fins in smaller waves should you ride smaller fins in bigger waves? Or does it mostly come down to fin template and stiffness? I’m only 120lbs so I’ve been riding smalls.
In bigger surf you want to manage speed so riding a smaller fin will help you do that. If you are riding small fins and they feel good then stick with it. If your looking for a little drive in smaller waves then maybe put in Medium side fins and keep the small center fin to keep the board loose and playful. In overhead surf I suggest staying with a small fin size
Thanks Noel - love the show! Quick question: Intermediate/Advanced surfer. Mainly surf performance type boards with quite a bit of rocker. What future fin will help in fatter waves? At the moment I just use AM2 honeycomb for all conditions, but it feels a bit stiff in fatter waves...
Paul van der Merwe How much do you weigh? What do you mean by stiff? Are you saying the board feels tight? Hard to turn or the fin construction feels stiff?
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for getting back to me. 86kgs (i.e. 190lbs). Feels a bit unresponsive and like I can't get tight enough in the pocket. Hoping that I can resolve by changing fins
I'm running either the Kinetic JP5 phase 4 large which is a pretty big fin with lots of drive and flex or the CI RTM tech 1. I'm 175lbs riding a 5'8" Proctor Monsta. I've spent so much money on fins in the past 2 years lol
The Parko JP5 are quality fins and a few of the team guys swore by them but I don't think JS is making them anymore. I think most of the JS Team have pretty much jumped on FCS for some reason. I'm a Futures guy so only a couple of my old boards have FCS (old plugs).
Hi Noel, I just got a JS Xero Fusion to replace my Black Box 3 (which was one of my favorites) and would appreciate some Future fins advise. my bb3 was fcs2, I rode it as a quad riding the accelerator medium fronts and performer medium rears. My new xero is Futures so I am looking for a neutral set that will be as similar as possible to the accelerator and landed on the f6. If you have other suggestions I will appreciate it but my question is regarding the construction - alpha vs blackstix vs legacy honeycomb - taking into account it is my small wave performance board / step down. what would you recommend ? Thanks a lot and keep up the great work
On the construction…. I say honeycomb if you are riding a EPS/Epoxy board construction. If the board is flexing then get stiffer fins so your turns are solid and predictable.
Good video. As you know, sometimes we have different sets of fins that we bought before having all the information and don't always match the ideal setup. But we'd still like to use them so I wanted to ask if it's ok to mix fins of the same shape but different flex. For instance, to have more speed on smaller and less powerful waves, I'd like to increase the size of my fins from M to L and from FCS Performance Core construction (mid flex) to FCS Neo Glass construction (highest flex) even though I'm 150 lbs. However, I'd still like to use a size M center fin with the new L more flexible side fins as recommended in the video, but to do that I'd have to mix the new high flex L Neo Glass side fins with the mid flex Performance Core M center fin. Do you think that works or do the fins have to have the same flex?
I'm looking for some fins for the Pyzel Gremlin Swallow tail. I'm 5'5" and 135lbs and surf punchy beach breaks/softer beach breaks in the Bay Area in the 1-5 foot range. The board came with the Pyzel Paddillac fins, but these feel slow and not very lively. I'm looking for more speed and looseness and was wondering if you had any recommendations? I was thinking the EA Blacksticks potentially. Thanks!!
Glad to have this high level instructions about fins here. Thanks mate! Quick question: I am exactly your size and oftentimes surf small beach breaks. To try this point of view, Can I use two large carver glass flex side fins with a medium performer core in the middle?
Thanks for the info on fin characteristics. On another subject, can you tell me about the board stand that your board is on? If it is a commercial product, where can I buy one? Or did you make it yourself? Thanks so much.
Not sure I understand your question? Are you talking about the Raven surfboard.... Dion Agius pro model? Please be very specific on your question.... I have not watched this Vlog in a couple years
Now how does the tail shape of your board works with different sizes of fins? I can put raked large fins on a step up but that thing just wants to go down the line anyway... not to mention the speed I would have from bigger waves, so riding large fins on a step up would be not very helpful.. Then I visualise how it would be impractical as well to put larger fins on round pins in boards for small to medium surf. You do want the sensitivity with the round pin but large fins would counteract that. So from my understanding larger fins make sense in boards with squash tails and wider tails... Can you comment on that and put some feedback you had using different boards and fins?
Stevan Wouthuijsen You are correct about using a Large fin on bigger waves and certain tails. I have a 5’11” pin tail (CI Black Beauty) and when I ride that board I use a Medium Size fin. A Large fin would create too much lift in the tail and disengage the rail at high speeds. The Medium fin will work in conjunction with the pulled in pin tail and help me control the speed and keep that tail and rails in the water for precise turns on big waves. I would never choose a pin tail for small waves... too tight and no drive because a pin tail does not have much surface area. The pin tail is used to control speed and grip the wave. However I do like a Round tail on a small wave board or better said a Thumb tail. Great speed in turns and little more traction compared to a Squash tail.
Looking to get a new fin setup and was wondering what would be best for reef breaks like trestles or tstreet. I have the FCS accelerators. But I feel like I could get on to them easier and quicker. I'm getting a pyzalien 2. It would be awesome if you could reply! Anyways love the videos man! I learn so much from you!
Hi Noel, I’m a bit confused by the term drive. I always thought it describes the ability of carrying speed through turns and the stability, since I’ve mostly seen it in descriptions for good wave fins and step ups. You seem to be using drive in terms of generating speed through pumping? Cheers
Drive to me is gaining speed through turns. When I put the board on rail and feel resistance from using the rail and fins then I can push hard through my turns and the board squirts with speed coming out of turns.
I highly recommend my fins for drive and speed. The have a Large fin base (wider base) with medium fin size in height. They are the best of a Medium and Large fin. Check them out here….. nothing out there like them. We offer them in Raked, Neutral, and pivot templates. surfnshow.com/products/surf-n-show-thruster-rakes
Hey, I just got a happy 6.0 Pu, 29L as a step up from my daily og flyer 5.8. I'm 65kgs(1.76m) which means I'm on the verge between a S and M size fins. Plan for the step up is 4 to 6 foot Uluwatu style, down the line and barrels, carves type Indonesian surf. Do you recommend an M(I have some S AM3but might be too small for the waves. So in case S doesn't work , M would be enough or better L with a middle fin M for instance or just full M or L... Thanks. Joao
Great video just got MF fin in neo carbon in large i am 78 kg like the sound of getting a medium center fin for the small soft days was looking at getting the AM2 should save $100 😁😁👍
Hey Noel, I've got a 5'11 Pyzel Shadow and was wondering which fins would be the best for it. I mainly surf 1-3 foot waves with the occasional 4 footers and rare 5-6 footers. I'm 5'8 and 143 lbs. I'm contemplating mainly between medium John John Florence Tech Flex Future fins and Craig Anderson Black Stix. Which fin do you think would be better? Are there any other fin models you would recommend that would be better than these 2?
@@surfnshowreviews7777 that's what i thought. am i correct in assuming the M Accelerators will work best in the steeper punchy waves, while the L Reactors work best in fatter mush burgers?
Hey Noel, great video was actually just about to order some large fins in but will now use the smaller centre fin combined with the large outer for sure 🤙🏼 also is that a Ghost you've got under the fins, if so are you doing a review on it?
Hi Noel, please advice. I am intermediate surfer 82 kg, 1,5 year experience, surf beach breaks and reef breaks 2-6ft. Want some allround FCS fins. Seems like Performer is good according to description. Cannot decide Neoglass or PC. Dont want to get too stiff. Is it big difference between them? P.S. now have few pairs unknown local brands fins, that seems stiff
Hey Noel . So I bought a fever ! 5.9 .very happy it went so fast the only session i had so far . I am 145 pounds and they offered me at the shop on a good price the fcs2 fw fin medium fin . Wanted to ask your take on that fin if you maybe heard/ tried. Thanks !
djpipe1 For 4-6+ I like the AL Merrick fin and for smaller waves I like the Kolohe Andino fins. The KA fins will hold in bigger surf so I would get those.
Noel , The didnt have the k.a fins at medium so i went for the fanning fin cause i saw your good review . Hope its a right call ! Disnt open'em yet . Good call ?
djpipe1 The MF fins are epic but after riding the KA in more average days I really like the MF when the waves get a little bigger.... 4-8’+ surf. I like the KA fins in 1-6’ surf. It just depends if these fins are going to be your daily drivers... if so then take back the MF and go find the KA. Cheers
Surf n Show Reviews i got you . They dont have it in medium here . They have medina , julian , js , performer accelerator and the rest of the standad models . I surf mostly 2-4 foot beach breaks . What can be my go to ? Thanks . Appriciate your replies :)
Currently using Futures Stamps on my CI Hoglet, great board and love the Stamps, can really feel the drive/spring on my turns. Just picked up the Waterhog (7' 10") which so far is really sweet, for its size you can feel that it has drive. Any thoughts on fin size there, using the standard Thermotech AM1, but thoughts on some added "secret sauce" for the Waterhog; I am same size as you Noel.
Augustus Cesar I would put a Large fin in that board... AM2’s would go good. With that bigger board the Large fins will give even more speed. The AM2’s have a small center fin too so they will keep the board loose and responsive.
@surfnshowreviews Always great info Noel. I have a Pyzalien 2 running the H4 fins in medium. It’s a step up board and those fins have been great with it. However I love the board but it’s a little big with too much volume for medium sized days. So I picked up another Pyzalien 2 with less volume but it’s in the futures fin system. Now I’m wondering what fins to run with it since the H4’s are FCS only. I was looking at a pivot fin like the P6 but am thinking maybe the John John Florence Alphas would be a good balance. I’m 5’5” and 160lbs what say ye?
Hi Noel. What’s the best fin box in your opinion? Getting a ci sampler soon and need to inform the shop manager which one it is that I want. Thank you.
Imran Esack I like Futures boxes better... there are more affordable fin options like Naked Viking Fins, Captain Fins, and True Aims to buy from besides Futures. The FCSII plugs are good but limited fin options and really only 1 company to buy from.
hi noel. i bought a puddle jumper hp (5.2.. 25litter...) i'm 136 pounds….. i will go for a medium quad set up. is that good ? and wich model should i choose please ?? Great GReat ReWiEW!! thanks! :)
horus Yes you should go medium for your weight and that wide tail. In FCSII I would go Medium Reactor Side fins and medium Reactor Quad Rears.and Futures I would go P6 with a medium set of Quad Rears.
hi Noel your tha man! i love how well u know your stuff! Can u tell me why my Large Julian Wilson fins feel stiff and slow? I cant work it out ive tried them on a few boards now, but the Klohe Andino Mediums work awsome. Thanks Legend
Newy rat Stoked you like our show!!! The JW fins are stiff and lifeless because they are Fiberglass. I like the JW fin in bigger surf. You like the KA because they are Performance Core which has way more flex compared to Fiberglass fins like the JW.
Hi Noel, I am 140lbs riding a 5’8 x 20.75 x 2.50 with 33.26L. I was advised to ride my board in a quad setup from a surfer who owns the same board and is the same weight as I am. What fin size/model would you recommend?
Yeh I have ridden the board using a medium fsc 2 channel islands am which work fine but looking to experiment with some new fins and like the sound of your idea of a large fin for more drive on smaller surf etc. Im 165lbs and mainly use the board for 1-3ft
Hey Noel this video is so helpful thanks so much !!.... Just a question what do you think of the thermotech construction?? I couldn't afford better fins so I went for the T1 thermotech for my Rocket 9. Keep It up 🤙🏼🏄
Andrea Bordoni I haven’t tried those yet but I am sure they work ok. There are some good affordable fin options out there that you should consider next time. Captain Fin makes insane fins and very affordable... I like the Dane Reynolds Black Panthers. Futures makes the Alpha series fins.... F8 or JJF fins. FCSII makes the NEO Glass series... I like the Performers. Fins are just as important as surfboards so I recommend saving up a little cash and get a good affordable set. Cheers
Hey Noel, i just got my brand new board and im looking for the perfect fcs2 fins for me. Im 150lbs, and ride 2-7ft waves, but my go to surf spot has a fast really short punchy wave which might play into the fins now that i see the video? I also would like to progress on those sharp turns, (im intermediate level). I bought a set of mick fanning carvers in Medium, not sure if theyre the ones i shouldve gone with now that i saw the vid. Thank you
Hey Noel, great review! Do you think it would be possible to use 2 neo Carvers medium sides with the trailing fin a Kolohe medium? I find the 3 Carvers have a little too much hold and are a bit sticky out of turns.
Hi Noel.i am 53/63kgs-intermediate+... have to change my fins (fcs to futures) i have to choose for 1-3' mushy waves board 33L summer days- / 3'6' waves weak to medium "easy" shorboard 6' 31.5L/ 6'-8' waves step up 6'2 32L round tail. which FINS would you run for each board ?😃 thanks a lot!
@@surfnshowreviews7777 I ride S size HC neutral type on 5'9 and 6' , on step up i ride M size HC neutral type . think on my step down 5'9 would need more speed and pivot. On my step up think fins give me too much drive or stiffness...only my shortboard with S fins seems ok but only with decent wave 4-5'...
Nice work, Noel! Let me ask you this.... how can you determine the rake of the fin? Is it the total area of the fin? FCS and Futures don't seem to list their rake. Using the naked eye just doesn't seem reliable enough. There has to be a better way. Any suggestions?
Hi Noel! i weight 175lbs and i have a pyzel phantom (bought it after your review. but i have a doubt about fins. I have FCS2 Matt Biolos on Medium (reactor family and PCC) carver on large (NeoGlass) and soon kolohe andino on large. Which of this fins you recommend me to use for small waves and which ones in big ones? thanks for all the info, i have learned a lot from you!
Kilohertz fins in bigger surf... if those don’t offer enough hold get the Mick Fanning fins in PC. For smaller waves you can go Performers or Reactors.
I’m 72kg and looking to change up my size fins. I ride the AM medium fins in both future and fcs. When stepping up to a large fin what would you recommend in a quad set up? Could I use a large AM and then a medium carver fin? Cheers love your work.
Scott Hamilton You could mix up your fins like that. Sometimes I like a fin the AM on the sides and a upright quad rear set. Mix things up a bit and experiment. Remember sometimes one set of fins work epic in 1 board but aren’t epic in every board.
Hi Noel, I am riding a NB2 in 1-5ft and weigh 150-155lbs (68-70kg). Looking at the FCS2 KA fins... should I go Medium, Large or Large sides with Medium centre fin? Thanks
Hey Noel, ride KA Large and Performer Large with my Lost BB and thinking of changing up the fins. Could you let me know if there's much difference between KA large vs MF large? in terms of drive? Thanks man
Hey Noel, Good to see more on fins rather than just boards. I've been looking into switching fins up on my Hypto Krypto to make it loose on smaller waves but without sacrificing drive and speed. Do you have any suggests for me? I'm 5'6 138lbs and board uses FCS. I currently have Medium Reactors but not happy with those. Hypto has pinney tail so was thinking of going smaller to loosen board? would that be bad move? Any help much appreciated! Thanks!
Hey Noel!! I just order a new board, a 5´4 (35l) Lost Bean Bag for small and groovler days.. but i dont know what fins use with this board..people told me that is better to use size L with this board.. I´m 5´6 and 163lb. what fins do you recomend me?? for tri and quad please. Thank u so much!!
David Areitio I recommend a Large fin too. In FCSII I say Reactors size Large Thruster paired with Medium Reactor Quad Rears. Futures I recommend the Pyzel 5 fin set size Large.
Hi Noel, my weight is 65kg I surf in a wetsuit 3/2 or 4/3 wetsuit and ride shortboards with roughly 24 liters, i currently use the fcs2 kolohe fins in small but i'm looking for more drive in weaker surf should i get a set of mediums or go up to large? thanks
Andrew Raven Grab a set of Mediums for sure... I would get the KA Mediums and if your board feels a little tight then I would put the Small KA Center fin back in and it will go Sick.
Hi Noel !! I loved your video, just as good as the rest !! I have a question in the wake of seeing your video. I've been surfing for 20 years and I weigh 165lb. I usually surf waves between 1 to 4 feet in the area where I live. I just bought a Dominator 2 in 5´8 ". I have Matt Biolos thruster fins in M. Should I think about buying L size fins? Which ones would you recommend? Thanks in advance
It sounds like you could benefit from a fin with a large base and medium fin depth. This will offer maximum drive through turns from the large base, and the fins won’t make the board feel tight due to the fins not going too deep into the water. Check out these fins.... www.shopsurfnshow.com/collections/fins/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you very much for the reply!! The problem is that I live in Spain and the shipping costs and customs costs make them go over the price !! But I write down the advice to try some L fins in the future !!
What s your opinion on bigger surfer like 185 190 who prefers to surf medium fins over large in smaller waves. I hear different things, you like to ride large fins for more drive but those guys consider that in small surf medium fins feel more lively, causing less drag and better release also saying that if you have carbon fins for example, stiffer, large fins dont feel good and they go medium. Does it has to do with the wave type ? Also hearing that in bigger wave you need less fin area if you use a round tail / longer board when other think that in bigger wave you need bigger fins for more hold.
Mat R I get the less drag feel and more maneuverability on a Medium fins for sure. However pushing hard off bottom turns and big carves I personally like a wide base that seems to offer more resistance so I can push harder to generate more speed. On bigger waves with certain boards I like a Medium fin to keep the rails engaged.through turns for more control... now it’s not about more speed it’s about control. Construction on fins... I am now liking fiberglass a bit more for consistency and predictability. I still like Honeycomb too
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Make sense man, so if you are someone who doesnt push hard on turn maybe medium fins in some cases can be beneficial even thou you are bigger. It s interesting.
I'm a little stuck with fins, I've been riding futures up to the point and pretty comfortable with the ride number system and love the blackstix fins in small stuff, I normally go custom but just bought a Chilli Churro off the rack for summer beach break kinda waves but it has Fc 2 plugs, what fin would you recommend similar to the blackstix for speed generation ?
Hi noel, i am 179lb, 180lb, i am looking for speed because i usually dont surf big waves, but i want a set of fins that i could use them also if there is big waves, the am1 homeycomb, or the f6 alpha? Or i should go for larger fins? In that case what do u recommend? Thank you. (I am from argentina so when i refer to big waves i am talking about 7ft , 8ft )
Do you want to get in the lip fast then go Pivot fin, if you want more drive on rail with longer drawn out turns then go AM1. If you choose Pivot and you weigh 155-200lb I suggest the P8. You will want the large base for extra drive… the upright template keeps them loose even though they are size L. You should also check out my Pivot and Raked thruster sets. Nothing like them in the Futures line up. Check them out here…. www.shopsurfnshow.com/collections/all
I forgot to ask: have you tried increasing from M to L on a quad setup? The quad setup itself is supposed to give more speed so wouldn't it be overkill to switch setup and size? And with the idea of mixing and matching what we have, do you think in case you put two L fins in the front in a quad configuration, we could use Mediums in the back without having to buy a new complete Quad set? In other words, how similar are back quad fins to the smaller size of the equivalent front fins if that makes sense?
You can mix side fins and quad rears to get the feel you want in a board. Sometimes Large side fins can make a board feel tight and sluggish with Medium Quad Rears. I highly recommend using Medium side fins and Medium Pivot Quad Rears. If you don’t like the way the board feels then change the side fins with different templates (raked /neutral / pivot templates) I always use a Medium Pivot Quad Rear to enhance pivot because that’s what Quads lack without the center fin compared to a Thruster. Check out my personal favorite 5 fin set here. They are unique by design. They go mental in every board I put them in. surfnshow.com/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Cool, just to make sure I follow: let's say you have a board with 5 boxes so you could use a tri or quad setup. According to this video, if you were using a tri fin setup you'd go for size Large side fins and a size Medium center fin. Now, if you were to take the same board for the same conditions but with a quad setup, you wouldn't use size Large side fins with size Medium rears (so follow the same philosophy as with the tri setup), but you would use all size Mediums instead (with the rears being pivot templates to improve your pivot as you say)? And you would do this be because the four fins and the lack of a center one already generate enough speed so that you don't need the Larges to create speed? Cheers!
@@dlangpap Correct… large side fins might be overkill as a quad because you have so much fin in the water. It will make the board tight and harder to turn compared to running medium side fins and medium Quad rears
Surf n Show Reviews, First off i wanted to thank you for always uploading such helpful content for us gear fiends :) I was also hoping you could help me - I just had a new board shaped/picked up and this time around i had him throw a wide-round tail on the usual shortboard shape that i order (5'11x19 1/4x2 3/8) The board goes good, love the shape but the back end is noticably stiff and feels kind of neutral or dead compared to the normal lively feeling of my typical squash tail thruster. I use the Kolohe mediums on all my boards. Any suggestions? Do you think a different set of fins might put some spark in her? thank you for your time!
Chaseracer Stoked you like our show!!! The extra wide tail need a large fin for sure. It will more drive and to spice it up a little maybe go with a more upright fin so it pivots faster. I like the Haydenshapes Generation fins or you can go neutral with the rake and try the Jack Freestone fins too. How much do you weigh?
Surf n Show Reviews thank you for the quick reply! Regarding the tail template - its not exactly a super wide groveler style round tail and its also not a traditional pulled in rounded pin - kind of an in between if that makes sense. This board has FCS2 plugs so Im kind of limited there...I weigh 175-180 and would say an intermediate surfer, I can surf a wave top to bottom but Im not hucking full rotation air reverses either :) The Kolohe Andino template has been my go-to fins on all my boards. I surf Uppers/lowers/creek and state park. I really appreciate your help and you sharing your wealth of knowledge and experience.
Surf n Show Reviews - I just stopped by Usedsurf.com and grabbed some demo sets. Im hesitant to plug a set of larger fins in a board that im trying to loosen up but i trust your advise man! thx again hope to see you out there one day
Chaseracer Sounds good... let me know how it goes. Take a medium or smaller center fin down to the beach with you if the Large set feels a bit tight. A smaller center fin with Large side fins could be magic in that board. Cheers
What fin size should i use if i am 5’7 130lbs, using a 6’6 20’ 2 1/2 performance board? i surf in shoulder- head level spilling waves, i am in between an S or M, what would you say.
Eduardo Vila I think your board is to big and wide for a set of small fins. Go Medium... and if your getting FCSII get NEO Glass. If your going Futures then get Machado or Ando speed generating fins. You are very light so get a set of Mediums with some flex.
Wow i thought large fins were taboo for small guys....been riding dominator quad setup long time with slater k2.1 and G-XQ as rear...im intermediate 140 to 135 and will be riding the new dominator 2.0 at 5 8 i dont like going too short on boards even if the volume is the same.mainly paddling feels sluggish with shorter boards...i have the machado seaside fins and was planning on doing a 2+1 using the large front seaside ones with a single G-XQ. sound any good ...any advice... id love to be more loose for carves and still have speed. NJ waves mushy sometimes punchy at 3 to 4
Saying this was helpful is an understatement, you're videos have been of extreme help. Keep it up! Also I'm 5'8 155 lbs so it's great to see a perspective of someone my size, even though you're far better than me haha
Leandro Dias Stoked to hear our show is helping you!!! Cheers
This is the best explanation on fins on TH-cam! For years i always thought smaller fins are better. Even though id lose speed in turns and could rarely connect roundhouses. I started riding large fins a month ago and im surfing so much better now!
I am one of the converts from our discussions on TH-cam, at 5'10 170lbs the move from medium to large has been such an improvement with my turning and drive. Again thank you for all of your information and expertise! ...oh, and using my old medium center fin really turned the grovel board on!
Vaughan Heilman So Sick thanks for posting your experiences.
Vaughan Heilman I'm the same weight and height as you. Do you ride 28L too?
Just bought the large reactor fin for my 5’4” dream machine from Roberts. I’m 5’8” 170. I usually ride medium k2.1. Can’t wait to see how it goes
Your channels is so awesome! Thanks for all the great info Noel
conviced Noel, i will try large sides fins, and medium center fin, great review !!!
Blade Runner Yewww!! Let me know how it goes for you.
Your suggestion is EXACTLY what I do.
I'm 5"10 and 180lbs. I surf a 6"1 small wave performance short, with Mick Fanning Large Outers and the spare centre fin (Medium) from a tri-quad set of Matt Mayhem's. On my big wave 6"6 I run Medina Large Performers, but honestly, I think the Fannings would be better suited here, too, perhaps utilising the full set incl centre fin. I really like the tight feeling, as I'm not a good enough surfer yet to get the best out of a twitchy, loose feeling 'pivoty' type of fin setup. I feel actually that the neutral Medina Performers tend to lean towards the twitchy side, rather than the tight drawn-out turn side. And the Fannings just have so much speed. Catch waves so easily without the drag of the Larger centre fin, too.
Finding the right set of fins can be very expensive. especially when the fins don't work?? OUCH!!! Mahalo for this video now I can experiment with what I already have and save me some cash!!!
Thanks man, rad stuff!
I love your explanation of fins the effects of small changes and the knowledge of what our icons are riding and why +
the key takeaway, how can it help the everyday surfer progress and get over speed bumps along the way.
peace out
I really love this channel
these informational videos allow me to just listen while I work
Que Dableyou So stoked these reviews help you.
I found this very educational. Would love to see more equipment breakdowns like this.
Great info, fins are complex. It would be interesting to hear about people of different weight classes as well
.
Yeah bro you definitely opened up my mind , I am going to try the large ones , nice point of view !! I love it !!!
Loving the backdrop! You turned me on to large fins and it’s been great!
Geoff Koop Yewww!!!
Excellently explained. That was a knowledgeable video.
Your channel is so awesome and helpful! This has inspired me to do some experimenting. Thanks heaps!
Mitchell Hills Yewww!!! That’s what our show is all about. Cheers
epic video as always Noel! Gunna try out some large fins!
Jack Buckingham Epic... let me know what you get and how they go for you. Cheers
Jack Buckingham This was great, been searching for "learning to surf at 50" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Feyvid Surfers Semitist - (do a google search ) ? Ive heard some unbelievable things about it and my buddy got excellent results with it.
Perfect break down mate
Cheers
Awosme as always Noel!! Great review on fins!! Helps me a lot!! 🤘🤘🤙
jose rivers Cheers... so stoked this episode helps you out.
Some fcs2 sets come standard with smaller rears:
Sally, Super, Rusty, Firewire, Merrick, pyzel.
I tried out larger fins for a while but I don't shred quite like you. Seems like larger fins made it harder to cut back, let the tail slide out, wasn't having as much fun? Switched back to medium and I've been loving it.
Hi Noel & thanks for helping me pick my new set of FCS II FINS = ''The Performer carbon'' and after I got them I got to spot Gabriel Medina take the world Title shredding the Performers carbon model at pipe !! ha ,ha . Best Amigo
Domingo Martinez My pleasure!!
Liking your show Noel! Really fun to ride along and see all the boards and gear you guys are testing out. This is a cool vid as I've been playing with fins for the last year and I'm so surprised at how much fins can change how your board rides. I'm also surprised how much the "right" fins for you or your board is personal preference (like you're saying about riding large fins). I've played around and gone through a lot of different styles, dimensions, materials and feel pretty confident about what fins to choose depending on the board, conditions, or how I'm feeling for the day. Also wanted to leave the other readers with something Stretch pointed out about fins in an interview. He was saying that fins make up to 50% of the wetted surface of a board when it's on plane. So fins are a much bigger consideration than I think most of us think. Looking back, I really wish I'd experimented with fins a long time ago. I mean, I'm kinda pissed at myself for how many waves I must have caught and kinda wasted because I was riding crap/wrong fins. Like Noel said, have fun and try all kinds of fins!
Bryce Molenkamp Thanks for posting this for us all!!! So stoked your finding your fins.
Exactly the same height and weight as me...thanks for the tips. I'm playing with new quad fins for my baked potato and got a new single fin for my vernor. I've neglected to dig into fin combinations for a long time.
Amazing video Noel, thanks so much for the info.
In essence he uses a large upright fin on his rail with a thin tip for release combined with a smaller back fin...its basically the same fin area but he is transferring the mass to the side for acceleration, power and hold when he engages his rail. This depends on how thick the rail is at 18 “ .The mass of the back fin is decreased to free up the tail. . In other words.He is using a moderate version of the twin fin -stabilizer concept . The problem here is so and so Joe pro is doing this, but neither you nor myself surf like said pro. You have to choose what works best for you.Dialing fins is a lot of work and can be incredibly frustrating and time consuming.BUT its rewarding. I would recommend trying a ton of different fins first ,taking mental notes as you go. before sticking with just this. The plan shape , rocker ,contours and mass displacement on each board varies .With the price of fins these days ,its best to experiment with cheap used plastic ,templates first off E bay . Also never sell or get rid of your fins.You never know when you will need them.
That was gold info, thanks mate
I’m confused at 0:54 because I thought you were saying that the bigger fin would make it less maneuverable but then right after it sounded like you said the opposite?
hello ccan u please review volume in surfboard construction when ordering a custom board for a 5'7" 145lb experienced old man who loves beach breaks!!!!
Dingo Capo Classic... we will do a review on Volume soon.
Noel, thanks for a greaaaat video! Hope you receive all those good vibes back, I bet you will. And I also think you would really like using Jordy Smiths Larges in the sides, and a medium of his in the center. A little more base than the AMs. And a little more flex, almost a straight 5 in the ride number and rakey as you like them. So a great mid point. Think it could work?
JorgeAndresCoppiano. That sounds like a great set up. I can’t find my Large Jordy’s so I will have to get a new pair. Cheers
Surf n Show Reviews Noel have you been able to try that setup?
JorgeAndresCoppiano. Nope... still don’t have the L Jordy’s. I need to get a new pair.
Great advice!
Hey. I know this video is old, but here goes. I really like my large JJF red tips in my Subdriver with Futures. I’m 180, 5’8 lower intermediate (51 y.o.) I surf mostly beach breaks in the LA area. But I’ve got a 6’4 Monsta Box in Hyfy that just feels a bit too responsive right now. Any ideas on a stiffer fin toning it down a bit until I get a better handle on the board? It’s FCS 2. I’ve got the MF’s in there right now. It works great, but sometimes it feels a bit squirrelly. Would the Pyzel be similar to the JJF’s? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks for all you do.
Are you riding the MF Large fins?
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Yes.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 When the waves are clean the MFs are great. I also use the MR twin plus trailers. Both feel magical. But when there’s some texture or bumps on the wave, I’d like something that feels a bit “sturdier,” if that makes sense.
@@h.peterzimmer883 I’m not sure there is something more sturdy than the L MF’s.
Maybe check out the Carvers
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you so much for taking the time to consider my question. I think I just needed time to get used to the board/ fin combo after switching around too much. After giving it a few more sessions, the MFs feel fine. Just really different from the feeling I have with my PU board/ JJF fins. Thanks again. Wish you continued success with the channel. 🙏
I’m currently riding the first FCS II PERFORMER PC fin set and am not sure if I should get the FCS II KA fin set that you have shown. I’m starting to progress and get turns down, but really don’t know if it’s worth it to switch to the FCS II KA set on my JS Monsta box HyFi..would love your advice
Luke Wohl The performers have less rake compared to the KA fins so they will pivot faster. The KA fins will have more drive and will offer a little more speed through turns. If you want the best of both carving and pivot then stay with your Performers. The KA fins is a great addition to your fin quiver... use your Performers in peaky surf and the KA’s when the waves are a bit more lined up.
Hi Noel, thank you for all the video's on boards, glad I found this one as I did not know much about fins. I'm 5'7, 142 lbs, what future fins would you recommend? I think I'm intermediate, can carve down the line, but want to improve my top/bottom turns and cut backs. Can do these turns but are slower, and not strong or placing right weight. I'm thinking medium, but not sure what ride number to go towards or which model? Would be great to hear your advice, thank you.
Y 1 If you can only afford one set of fins then I recommend a set of Medium honeycomb. I like the AM1 for carving... nice and loose due to a smaller center fin. If you a good neutral set... I also like the Dane Reynolds fins... by Captain Fin... more affordable and Honeycomb
Hey Noel, I have the F8 blackstix for small and mushier days, if u had to choose just 1 other set to keep in your quiver what would u get in futures? Maybe AM2 honeycomb for bigger faster days? What if you could get 2 more sets? Eventually I’ll add 2 new sets.. I’m intermediate, weigh about 195, and will be surfing mostly punchy beach break 3-5 ft, but will need something for 4-8’ + point break playa negra. Thanks so much for your help
Joshua Elder AM2’s are a must have, I also like the JJF Techflex for peaky Beachies.... they are more upright so they will pivot faster.
Awesome explanation Noel! to clarify about Futures, I am 77kg 5'7 riding a dominator. Should I rely only on the ride number and get ALL large stiff fins for smaller surf? or to get a medium/smaller center fin like for FCS?
I like a smaller center fin with large side fins. All 3 L fins is way to tight.
Check my signature fins… they are super unique. You will freak on how good they go. Nothing out there like them. I make them in Raked, Neutral, and Pivot templates.
surfnshow.com/products/surf-n-show-thruster-rakes
Hard to beat a honeycomb AM2. I have one that's 5 years old. It's still in heavy rotation.
Noel loving the advice, but I want to clarify: if you ride bigger fins in smaller waves should you ride smaller fins in bigger waves? Or does it mostly come down to fin template and stiffness? I’m only 120lbs so I’ve been riding smalls.
In bigger surf you want to manage speed so riding a smaller fin will help you do that. If you are riding small fins and they feel good then stick with it. If your looking for a little drive in smaller waves then maybe put in Medium side fins and keep the small center fin to keep the board loose and playful. In overhead surf I suggest staying with a small fin size
@@surfnshowreviews7777 you’re the best thank you for the sage advice!
Thanks Noel - love the show!
Quick question: Intermediate/Advanced surfer. Mainly surf performance type boards with quite a bit of rocker. What future fin will help in fatter waves? At the moment I just use AM2 honeycomb for all conditions, but it feels a bit stiff in fatter waves...
Paul van der Merwe How much do you weigh? What do you mean by stiff? Are you saying the board feels tight? Hard to turn or the fin construction feels stiff?
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for getting back to me. 86kgs (i.e. 190lbs). Feels a bit unresponsive and like I can't get tight enough in the pocket. Hoping that I can resolve by changing fins
Paul van der Merwe Try the Legacy P8 or F8
Damn Noel, you just sent my fin OCD into overdrive haha...thanks for the vids brutha..!!
kingsofmayhem Yewww!! Let me know what fins you running and how they work out for you.
I'm running either the Kinetic JP5 phase 4 large which is a pretty big fin with lots of drive and flex or the CI RTM tech 1. I'm 175lbs riding a 5'8" Proctor Monsta. I've spent so much money on fins in the past 2 years lol
kingsofmayhem Sounds like good fins.... I have not tried the Kinetic fins yet.
The Parko JP5 are quality fins and a few of the team guys swore by them but I don't think JS is making them anymore. I think most of the JS Team have pretty much jumped on FCS for some reason. I'm a Futures guy so only a couple of my old boards have FCS (old plugs).
Hi Noel,
I just got a JS Xero Fusion to replace my Black Box 3 (which was one of my favorites) and would appreciate some Future fins advise.
my bb3 was fcs2, I rode it as a quad riding the accelerator medium fronts and performer medium rears.
My new xero is Futures so I am looking for a neutral set that will be as similar as possible to the accelerator and landed on the f6.
If you have other suggestions I will appreciate it but my question is regarding the construction - alpha vs blackstix vs legacy honeycomb - taking into account it is my small wave performance board / step down. what would you recommend ?
Thanks a lot and keep up the great work
If you like the FCS set up you were running then I suggest the Al Merrick 5 fin set.
On the construction…. I say honeycomb if you are riding a EPS/Epoxy board construction. If the board is flexing then get stiffer fins so your turns are solid and predictable.
@@surfnshowreviews7777
How would you compare the alphas to the honeycomb? I like a fin I can push...
my accelerator are pc carbon by the way
@@davidavron Honeycomb will feel more like your PC Carbon
Noel we met at the OG Flyer release part! You gave me the Trace.
Will Hammond Epic I remember you Grom. How are you?
I'm well. Can I get a shout out in the next video, please?
Also the Trace is EPIC!
Will Hammond Sure if I can remember. How is the Trace Unit working for you?
It is working insane. I have got up to 15mph. I also put it on a Carver and it works great too.
This was an excellent video. Thank you!!
Good video. As you know, sometimes we have different sets of fins that we bought before having all the information and don't always match the ideal setup. But we'd still like to use them so I wanted to ask if it's ok to mix fins of the same shape but different flex.
For instance, to have more speed on smaller and less powerful waves, I'd like to increase the size of my fins from M to L and from FCS Performance Core construction (mid flex) to FCS Neo Glass construction (highest flex) even though I'm 150 lbs. However, I'd still like to use a size M center fin with the new L more flexible side fins as recommended in the video, but to do that I'd have to mix the new high flex L Neo Glass side fins with the mid flex Performance Core M center fin. Do you think that works or do the fins have to have the same flex?
You can definitely mix and match the fins and flex too.
I'm looking for some fins for the Pyzel Gremlin Swallow tail. I'm 5'5" and 135lbs and surf punchy beach breaks/softer beach breaks in the Bay Area in the 1-5 foot range. The board came with the Pyzel Paddillac fins, but these feel slow and not very lively. I'm looking for more speed and looseness and was wondering if you had any recommendations?
I was thinking the EA Blacksticks potentially. Thanks!!
If you want it loose check out the medium Stretch Quads
Glad to have this high level instructions about fins here. Thanks mate! Quick question: I am exactly your size and oftentimes surf small beach breaks. To try this point of view, Can I use two large carver glass flex side fins with a medium performer core in the middle?
Thanks for the info on fin characteristics. On another subject, can you tell me about the board stand that your board is on? If it is a commercial product, where can I buy one? Or did you make it yourself? Thanks so much.
Robert Dixon Boardraxx.com
Hi Noel. In relation to the fins you discussed in the vlog where does the Dion Agius fall in to the picture? Thanks
Not sure I understand your question? Are you talking about the Raven surfboard.... Dion Agius pro model? Please be very specific on your question.... I have not watched this Vlog in a couple years
@@surfnshowreviews7777 apologies. I’m referring to the captain fin, dion Aguis fins. The ones with the flower print.
Now how does the tail shape of your board works with different sizes of fins?
I can put raked large fins on a step up but that thing just wants to go down the line anyway... not to mention the speed I would have from bigger waves, so riding large fins on a step up would be not very helpful..
Then I visualise how it would be impractical as well to put larger fins on round pins in boards for small to medium surf. You do want the sensitivity with the round pin but large fins would counteract that.
So from my understanding larger fins make sense in boards with squash tails and wider tails...
Can you comment on that and put some feedback you had using different boards and fins?
Stevan Wouthuijsen You are correct about using a Large fin on bigger waves and certain tails. I have a 5’11” pin tail (CI Black Beauty) and when I ride that board I use a Medium Size fin. A Large fin would create too much lift in the tail and disengage the rail at high speeds. The Medium fin will work in conjunction with the pulled in pin tail and help me control the speed and keep that tail and rails in the water for precise turns on big waves.
I would never choose a pin tail for small waves... too tight and no drive because a pin tail does not have much surface area. The pin tail is used to control speed and grip the wave.
However I do like a Round tail on a small wave board or better said a Thumb tail. Great speed in turns and little more traction compared to a Squash tail.
Looking to get a new fin setup and was wondering what would be best for reef breaks like trestles or tstreet. I have the FCS accelerators. But I feel like I could get on to them easier and quicker. I'm getting a pyzalien 2. It would be awesome if you could reply! Anyways love the videos man! I learn so much from you!
Hudson Jones P2 get the Pyzel fins... the are a Neutral Template so good carving and rail turns.
Surf n Show Reviews Medium or Large? I’m 6’1 175
This guys videos rule !
Hi Noel... Great Video!
Will Hammond Stoked you liked it!!
Hi Noel, I’m a bit confused by the term drive. I always thought it describes the ability of carrying speed through turns and the stability, since I’ve mostly seen it in descriptions for good wave fins and step ups. You seem to be using drive in terms of generating speed through pumping? Cheers
Drive to me is gaining speed through turns. When I put the board on rail and feel resistance from using the rail and fins then I can push hard through my turns and the board squirts with speed coming out of turns.
Hey Noel, thanks for all the videos. Of the FCS2 series: “reactor”, “performer”, “accelerator”, and “carver”, which would you recommend for slabs?
Boards with a lot of rocker I like the AM’s or Mick Fanning’s.
So Noel I ride a 5’4 slater no brainer I’m 148lbs, for more speed in smaller waves I should use a bigger fin??
I highly recommend my fins for drive and speed. The have a Large fin base (wider base) with medium fin size in height. They are the best of a Medium and Large fin. Check them out here….. nothing out there like them. We offer them in Raked, Neutral, and pivot templates.
surfnshow.com/products/surf-n-show-thruster-rakes
Hey, I just got a happy 6.0 Pu, 29L as a step up from my daily og flyer 5.8. I'm 65kgs(1.76m) which means I'm on the verge between a S and M size fins. Plan for the step up is 4 to 6 foot Uluwatu style, down the line and barrels, carves type Indonesian surf. Do you recommend an M(I have some S AM3but might be too small for the waves. So in case S doesn't work , M would be enough or better L with a middle fin M for instance or just full M or L... Thanks. Joao
Joao TheWabi life Medium fins
Great video just got MF fin in neo carbon in large i am 78 kg like the sound of getting a medium center fin for the small soft days was looking at getting the AM2 should save $100 😁😁👍
Thanks Noel, you're the man.
Hey Noel,
I've got a 5'11 Pyzel Shadow and was wondering which fins would be the best for it. I mainly surf 1-3 foot waves with the occasional 4 footers and rare 5-6 footers. I'm 5'8 and 143 lbs. I'm contemplating mainly between medium John John Florence Tech Flex Future fins and Craig Anderson Black Stix.
Which fin do you think would be better?
Are there any other fin models you would recommend that would be better than these 2?
oh snap, just bought some M Accelerators. same weight as you. what would you go for next to diversify the fin quiver, size L Reactors or Carvers....?
Large Reactors for sure.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 that's what i thought. am i correct in assuming the M Accelerators will work best in the steeper punchy waves, while the L Reactors work best in fatter mush burgers?
@@vznquest Yes on the accelerator fins. The Reactors just pivot a lot quicker… better for beach breaks or top to bottom surfing.
Hey Noel, great video was actually just about to order some large fins in but will now use the smaller centre fin combined with the large outer for sure 🤙🏼 also is that a Ghost you've got under the fins, if so are you doing a review on it?
Trystan Lloyd Yes that is a Ghost... that review will drop soon... we need some waves!!!
I have the Ghost, it’s sick. Look forward to your review on it!
*Good stuff as always* 👍
Yo Noel nice video! What would FCs Toledos be in futures you reckon?
Maybe the Legacy Raked series’s
Ok kool! I’ve got a ghost 5”10 stock would you recommend smaller fins? Thanks bro
@@TahjmaRahj how much do you weigh?
Yo Noel legend I’m around 69Kg
@@TahjmaRahj Medium
Hi Noel, please advice.
I am intermediate surfer 82 kg, 1,5 year experience, surf beach breaks and reef breaks 2-6ft. Want some allround FCS fins. Seems like Performer is good according to description. Cannot decide Neoglass or PC. Dont want to get too stiff. Is it big difference between them?
P.S. now have few pairs unknown local brands fins, that seems stiff
Get the Performers in PC
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks! 🏄
Hey Noel . So I bought a fever ! 5.9 .very happy it went so fast the only session i had so far . I am 145 pounds and they offered me at the shop on a good price the fcs2 fw fin medium fin . Wanted to ask your take on that fin if you maybe heard/ tried.
Thanks !
djpipe1 For 4-6+ I like the AL Merrick fin and for smaller waves I like the Kolohe Andino fins. The KA fins will hold in bigger surf so I would get those.
Surf n Show Reviews will get'em ! Tnx
Noel , The didnt have the k.a fins at medium so i went for the fanning fin cause i saw your good review . Hope its a right call ! Disnt open'em yet . Good call ?
djpipe1 The MF fins are epic but after riding the KA in more average days I really like the MF when the waves get a little bigger.... 4-8’+ surf. I like the KA fins in 1-6’ surf. It just depends if these fins are going to be your daily drivers... if so then take back the MF and go find the KA. Cheers
Surf n Show Reviews i got you . They dont have it in medium here . They have medina , julian , js , performer accelerator and the rest of the standad models . I surf mostly 2-4 foot beach breaks . What can be my go to ? Thanks . Appriciate your replies :)
Currently using Futures Stamps on my CI Hoglet, great board and love the Stamps, can really feel the drive/spring on my turns. Just picked up the Waterhog (7' 10") which so far is really sweet, for its size you can feel that it has drive. Any thoughts on fin size there, using the standard Thermotech AM1, but thoughts on some added "secret sauce" for the Waterhog; I am same size as you Noel.
Augustus Cesar I would put a Large fin in that board... AM2’s would go good. With that bigger board the Large fins will give even more speed. The AM2’s have a small center fin too so they will keep the board loose and responsive.
Thanks for the quick response, I'll check them out, and report back...
@surfnshowreviews Always great info Noel. I have a Pyzalien 2 running the H4 fins in medium. It’s a step up board and those fins have been great with it. However I love the board but it’s a little big with too much volume for medium sized days. So I picked up another Pyzalien 2 with less volume but it’s in the futures fin system. Now I’m wondering what fins to run with it since the H4’s are FCS only. I was looking at a pivot fin like the P6 but am thinking maybe the John John Florence Alphas would be a good balance. I’m 5’5” and 160lbs what say ye?
Check out my 5 fin set here. They go mental…
www.shopsurfnshow.com/collections/fins/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Right on I’ll check’em out, thanks! 🤙🏾
Top 3 favorite surfers
Dane Reynolds, Slater, Parker Coffin or Mick Fanning
Hi Noel. What’s the best fin box in your opinion? Getting a ci sampler soon and need to inform the shop manager which one it is that I want. Thank you.
Imran Esack I like Futures boxes better... there are more affordable fin options like Naked Viking Fins, Captain Fins, and True Aims to buy from besides Futures. The FCSII plugs are good but limited fin options and really only 1 company to buy from.
Surf n Show Reviews great thank you 🤙🏽
hi noel. i bought a puddle jumper hp (5.2.. 25litter...) i'm 136 pounds….. i will go for a medium quad set up. is that good ? and wich model should i choose please ?? Great GReat ReWiEW!! thanks! :)
horus Yes you should go medium for your weight and that wide tail. In FCSII I would go Medium Reactor Side fins and medium Reactor Quad Rears.and Futures I would go P6 with a medium set of Quad Rears.
whhoww that's quick!!! thanks a lot@@surfnshowreviews7777
i ordered with FCS2...… this will be reactor!
hi Noel your tha man! i love how well u know your stuff! Can u tell me why my Large Julian Wilson fins feel stiff and slow? I cant work it out ive tried them on a few boards now, but the Klohe Andino Mediums work awsome. Thanks Legend
Newy rat Stoked you like our show!!! The JW fins are stiff and lifeless because they are Fiberglass. I like the JW fin in bigger surf. You like the KA because they are Performance Core which has way more flex compared to Fiberglass fins like the JW.
Hi Noel,
I am 140lbs riding a 5’8 x 20.75 x 2.50 with 33.26L. I was advised to ride my board in a quad setup from a surfer who owns the same board and is the same weight as I am. What fin size/model would you recommend?
LavantoOfficial Ask your friend... sounds like he knows a good combo already?
Great video mate, could you recommend a large thruster setup for a 5'4 super brand fling please?
Stefan G Futures or FCS2
Stefan G Have you ridden the board yet?
Yeh I have ridden the board using a medium fsc 2 channel islands am which work fine but looking to experiment with some new fins and like the sound of your idea of a large fin for more drive on smaller surf etc. Im 165lbs and mainly use the board for 1-3ft
Stefan G I love the Kolohe Andino fins. Get those... in size Large.
Will do! Thanks a lot
According to this video, for larger surfer (90 kilos) , usually surf on small surf, would you recommend to take an XL fins?
aviv meir Large Tech Flex or fiberglass fins in solid surf and Honeycomb for small wave fins
Hey Noel this video is so helpful thanks so much !!.... Just a question what do you think of the thermotech construction?? I couldn't afford better fins so I went for the T1 thermotech for my Rocket 9. Keep It up 🤙🏼🏄
Andrea Bordoni I haven’t tried those yet but I am sure they work ok. There are some good affordable fin options out there that you should consider next time.
Captain Fin makes insane fins and very affordable... I like the Dane Reynolds Black Panthers.
Futures makes the Alpha series fins.... F8 or JJF fins.
FCSII makes the NEO Glass series... I like the Performers. Fins are just as important as surfboards so I recommend saving up a little cash and get a good affordable set. Cheers
Hey Noel, i just got my brand new board and im looking for the perfect fcs2 fins for me. Im 150lbs, and ride 2-7ft waves, but my go to surf spot has a fast really short punchy wave which might play into the fins now that i see the video? I also would like to progress on those sharp turns, (im intermediate level). I bought a set of mick fanning carvers in Medium, not sure if theyre the ones i shouldve gone with now that i saw the vid. Thank you
Hey Noel, great review! Do you think it would be possible to use 2 neo Carvers medium sides with the trailing fin a Kolohe medium? I find the 3 Carvers have a little too much hold and are a bit sticky out of turns.
Tim Hall Sure anything’s possible. Just try it... you have nothing to lose. That’s what i do... just try.
Will do Noel...slightly less tip in the Kolohe trailing fin and both templates reasonably similar.
Well done man!
Hi Noel.i am 53/63kgs-intermediate+... have to change my fins (fcs to futures) i have to choose for 1-3' mushy waves board 33L summer days- / 3'6' waves weak to medium "easy" shorboard 6' 31.5L/ 6'-8' waves step up 6'2 32L round tail. which FINS would you run for each board ?😃 thanks a lot!
What FCS fins are you using in those boards right now that you like.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 I ride S size HC neutral type on 5'9 and 6' , on step up i ride M size HC neutral type . think on my step down 5'9 would need more speed and pivot. On my step up think fins give me too much drive or stiffness...only my shortboard with S fins seems ok but only with decent wave 4-5'...
@@TheKiknplay check out the Medium Jordy’s for your step up and F4 for your other board
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks Noel. I check it. Have a nice day and good recover in your surf👍💪
@@surfnshowreviews7777 i didn't Know about Jordy specs 😉👍. Seems to be exactly made for me! Thanks Noel 😀
Nice work, Noel! Let me ask you this.... how can you determine the rake of the fin? Is it the total area of the fin? FCS and Futures don't seem to list their rake. Using the naked eye just doesn't seem reliable enough. There has to be a better way. Any suggestions?
papa marban The Rake is the area of the fin that goes past the shapers dot. You can measure that with a ruler.
Hi Noel! i weight 175lbs and i have a pyzel phantom (bought it after your review. but i have a doubt about fins. I have FCS2 Matt Biolos on Medium (reactor family and PCC) carver on large (NeoGlass) and soon kolohe andino on large. Which of this fins you recommend me to use for small waves and which ones in big ones? thanks for all the info, i have learned a lot from you!
Kilohertz fins in bigger surf... if those don’t offer enough hold get the Mick Fanning fins in PC.
For smaller waves you can go Performers or Reactors.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks!
I’m 72kg and looking to change up my size fins. I ride the AM medium fins in both future and fcs. When stepping up to a large fin what would you recommend in a quad set up? Could I use a large AM and then a medium carver fin? Cheers love your work.
Scott Hamilton You could mix up your fins like that. Sometimes I like a fin the AM on the sides and a upright quad rear set. Mix things up a bit and experiment. Remember sometimes one set of fins work epic in 1 board but aren’t epic in every board.
Ok that makes sense using the quad rear rather then a normal medium fin as the quad rears. Cheers again for your help
Hi Noel, I am riding a NB2 in 1-5ft and weigh 150-155lbs (68-70kg). Looking at the FCS2 KA fins... should I go Medium, Large or Large sides with Medium centre fin? Thanks
You can go Medium Kolohe fins with the NB2... the NB2 carries a lot of speed on its own
@@surfnshowreviews7777 cool, thanks.... makes sense. Out of interest would you say the same (KA mediums) for the Cabianca "The Medina"?
@@TerrilWinters Yes
@@TerrilWinters I might go Large KA fins on the Medina.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 great, thanks for your input... much appreciated!
Super helpful mate 👍🏽
Hey Noel, ride KA Large and Performer Large with my Lost BB and thinking of changing up the fins. Could you let me know if there's much difference between KA large vs MF large? in terms of drive? Thanks man
DF The MF fins have a bit more rake so they will offer more drive... they also have a wider tip so they will also offer more hold.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for the quick response and dig the shows by the way :)
Hey Noel- What's the closest Futures twin 2+1 set to the MR twin fins? Thx you for your time!
Hey Noel, Good to see more on fins rather than just boards. I've been looking into switching fins up on my Hypto Krypto to make it loose on smaller waves but without sacrificing drive and speed. Do you have any suggests for me? I'm 5'6 138lbs and board uses FCS. I currently have Medium Reactors but not happy with those. Hypto has pinney tail so was thinking of going smaller to loosen board? would that be bad move? Any help much appreciated! Thanks!
MrDavebrit I say grab a Medium set of KA and use a small center fin. It will have drive and be responsive.
Surf n Show Reviews Thanks Noel! I’ll give it a try and update results!
Hey Noel!! I just order a new board, a 5´4 (35l) Lost Bean Bag for small and groovler days.. but i dont know what fins use with this board..people told me that is better to use size L with this board.. I´m 5´6 and 163lb. what fins do you recomend me?? for tri and quad please. Thank u so much!!
David Areitio I recommend a Large fin too. In FCSII I say Reactors size Large Thruster paired with Medium Reactor Quad Rears. Futures I recommend the Pyzel 5 fin set size Large.
Thanks Noel!!👍
Hi Noel, my weight is 65kg I surf in a wetsuit 3/2 or 4/3 wetsuit and ride shortboards with roughly 24 liters, i currently use the fcs2 kolohe fins in small but i'm looking for more drive in weaker surf should i get a set of mediums or go up to large? thanks
Andrew Raven Grab a set of Mediums for sure... I would get the KA Mediums and if your board feels a little tight then I would put the Small KA Center fin back in and it will go Sick.
Hi Noel, the bigger side fins made all the difference, so much drive! Thanks for the great advice
Hi Noel !! I loved your video, just as good as the rest !! I have a question in the wake of seeing your video. I've been surfing for 20 years and I weigh 165lb. I usually surf waves between 1 to 4 feet in the area where I live. I just bought a Dominator 2 in 5´8 ". I have Matt Biolos thruster fins in M. Should I think about buying L size fins? Which ones would you recommend? Thanks in advance
It sounds like you could benefit from a fin with a large base and medium fin depth. This will offer maximum drive through turns from the large base, and the fins won’t make the board feel tight due to the fins not going too deep into the water. Check out these fins.... www.shopsurfnshow.com/collections/fins/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you very much for the reply!! The problem is that I live in Spain and the shipping costs and customs costs make them go over the price !! But I write down the advice to try some L fins in the future !!
@@ugary4837 Try Jordy’s new fins in size Large
What s your opinion on bigger surfer like 185 190 who prefers to surf medium fins over large in smaller waves. I hear different things, you like to ride large fins for more drive but those guys consider that in small surf medium fins feel more lively, causing less drag and better release also saying that if you have carbon fins for example, stiffer, large fins dont feel good and they go medium. Does it has to do with the wave type ? Also hearing that in bigger wave you need less fin area if you use a round tail / longer board when other think that in bigger wave you need bigger fins for more hold.
Mat R I get the less drag feel and more maneuverability on a Medium fins for sure. However pushing hard off bottom turns and big carves I personally like a wide base that seems to offer more resistance so I can push harder to generate more speed. On bigger waves with certain boards I like a Medium fin to keep the rails engaged.through turns for more control... now it’s not about more speed it’s about control. Construction on fins... I am now liking fiberglass a bit more for consistency and predictability. I still like Honeycomb too
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Make sense man, so if you are someone who doesnt push hard on turn maybe medium fins in some cases can be beneficial even thou you are bigger. It s interesting.
I'm a little stuck with fins, I've been riding futures up to the point and pretty comfortable with the ride number system and love the blackstix fins in small stuff,
I normally go custom but just bought a Chilli Churro off the rack for summer beach break kinda waves but it has Fc 2 plugs, what fin would you recommend similar to the blackstix for speed generation ?
Simon Chadwick MF NEO Carbon If you want a fin with rake or Performers in NEO Glass for more pivot beach breaks or boards with low rocker.
Surf n Show Reviews J
Surf n Show Reviews n
Very good video thanks. Help full
Do you have some online courses?
We have How to Surf Better Tutorials. You can check them out on our You Tube channel and on our Patreon here.
www.patreon.com/surfnshow
Hi Noel have you an opinion on the futures Alpha series tech, have you tried them?
Yes I tried the Alpha tech and they are great for the price. However I like Honeycomb better
Hi noel, i am 179lb, 180lb, i am looking for speed because i usually dont surf big waves, but i want a set of fins that i could use them also if there is big waves, the am1 homeycomb, or the f6 alpha? Or i should go for larger fins? In that case what do u recommend? Thank you. (I am from argentina so when i refer to big waves i am talking about 7ft , 8ft )
Ignacio Colo AM2 Honeycomb
Surf n Show Reviews thank you!!
Noel, Legacy Pivot vs AM 1 honeycomb ? (all futures) for Rocket wide 3-5 ft waves (HB/Malibu)
Do you want to get in the lip fast then go Pivot fin, if you want more drive on rail with longer drawn out turns then go AM1. If you choose Pivot and you weigh 155-200lb I suggest the P8. You will want the large base for extra drive… the upright template keeps them loose even though they are size L.
You should also check out my Pivot and Raked thruster sets. Nothing like them in the Futures line up. Check them out here….
www.shopsurfnshow.com/collections/all
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thank you Noel !!
Hi Noel, I'm a big fan of the Kolohe Andino fins. What futures fin would you say is most similar?
I forgot to ask: have you tried increasing from M to L on a quad setup? The quad setup itself is supposed to give more speed so wouldn't it be overkill to switch setup and size? And with the idea of mixing and matching what we have, do you think in case you put two L fins in the front in a quad configuration, we could use Mediums in the back without having to buy a new complete Quad set? In other words, how similar are back quad fins to the smaller size of the equivalent front fins if that makes sense?
You can mix side fins and quad rears to get the feel you want in a board.
Sometimes Large side fins can make a board feel tight and sluggish with Medium Quad Rears. I highly recommend using Medium side fins and Medium Pivot Quad Rears. If you don’t like the way the board feels then change the side fins with different templates (raked /neutral / pivot templates) I always use a Medium Pivot Quad Rear to enhance pivot because that’s what Quads lack without the center fin compared to a Thruster.
Check out my personal favorite 5 fin set here. They are unique by design. They go mental in every board I put them in.
surfnshow.com/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Cool, just to make sure I follow: let's say you have a board with 5 boxes so you could use a tri or quad setup. According to this video, if you were using a tri fin setup you'd go for size Large side fins and a size Medium center fin.
Now, if you were to take the same board for the same conditions but with a quad setup, you wouldn't use size Large side fins with size Medium rears (so follow the same philosophy as with the tri setup), but you would use all size Mediums instead (with the rears being pivot templates to improve your pivot as you say)? And you would do this be because the four fins and the lack of a center one already generate enough speed so that you don't need the Larges to create speed?
Cheers!
@@dlangpap Correct… large side fins might be overkill as a quad because you have so much fin in the water. It will make the board tight and harder to turn compared to running medium side fins and medium Quad rears
Surf n Show Reviews, First off i wanted to thank you for always uploading such helpful content for us gear fiends :) I was also hoping you could help me - I just had a new board shaped/picked up and this time around i had him throw a wide-round tail on the usual shortboard shape that i order (5'11x19 1/4x2 3/8) The board goes good, love the shape but the back end is noticably stiff and feels kind of neutral or dead compared to the normal lively feeling of my typical squash tail thruster. I use the Kolohe mediums on all my boards. Any suggestions? Do you think a different set of fins might put some spark in her? thank you for your time!
Chaseracer Stoked you like our show!!! The extra wide tail need a large fin for sure. It will more drive and to spice it up a little maybe go with a more upright fin so it pivots faster. I like the Haydenshapes Generation fins or you can go neutral with the rake and try the Jack Freestone fins too. How much do you weigh?
Surf n Show Reviews thank you for the quick reply! Regarding the tail template - its not exactly a super wide groveler style round tail and its also not a traditional pulled in rounded pin - kind of an in between if that makes sense. This board has FCS2 plugs so Im kind of limited there...I weigh 175-180 and would say an intermediate surfer, I can surf a wave top to bottom but Im not hucking full rotation air reverses either :) The Kolohe Andino template has been my go-to fins on all my boards. I surf Uppers/lowers/creek and state park. I really appreciate your help and you sharing your wealth of knowledge and experience.
Chaseracer Get the KA Large... hands down the best fins for the waves your surfing. Cheers
Surf n Show Reviews - I just stopped by Usedsurf.com and grabbed some demo sets. Im hesitant to plug a set of larger fins in a board that im trying to loosen up but i trust your advise man! thx again hope to see you out there one day
Chaseracer Sounds good... let me know how it goes. Take a medium or smaller center fin down to the beach with you if the Large set feels a bit tight. A smaller center fin with Large side fins could be magic in that board. Cheers
What fin size should i use if i am 5’7 130lbs, using a 6’6 20’ 2 1/2 performance board? i surf in shoulder- head level spilling waves, i am in between an S or M, what would you say.
Eduardo Vila Use Medium Side fins for speed and a Small Center fin to keep it loose and easy to turn.
Surf n Show Reviews thanks so much, but if i can only afford one?
Eduardo Vila I think your board is to big and wide for a set of small fins. Go Medium... and if your getting FCSII get NEO Glass. If your going Futures then get Machado or Ando speed generating fins. You are very light so get a set of Mediums with some flex.
Surf n Show Reviews Great advice, thanks 👍🏼👍🏼
Very well done!
Wow i thought large fins were taboo for small guys....been riding dominator quad setup long time with slater k2.1 and G-XQ as rear...im intermediate 140 to 135 and will be riding the new dominator 2.0 at 5 8 i dont like going too short on boards even if the volume is the same.mainly paddling feels sluggish with shorter boards...i have the machado seaside fins and was planning on doing a 2+1 using the large front seaside ones with a single G-XQ. sound any good ...any advice... id love to be more loose for carves and still have speed. NJ waves mushy sometimes punchy at 3 to 4
FCSII or Futures
@@surfnshowreviews7777 fcs 2
@@surfnshowreviews7777 seaside fins with a small trailer should be fun thanks