One-liner
Understanding fin position on a longboard can drastically impact surfing performance, with rearward positions providing stability and forward placements allowing for more maneuverability.
Synopsis
Introduction to Fin Positioning
In the search for the best surfing experience, longboarders often tinker with fin positions. The video delves into how moving the fin within the fin box—towards the nose or tail of the board or choosing between a pivot fin and a raked (Greenough-style) fin—affects surfing. The speaker has typically favored a rear position but experiments with different settings.
Testing Different Fin Setups
Armed with a Low Pro longboard, the speaker tests his usual raked fin set at the back of the fin box against moving it forward. He compares the feel and performance of a pivot fin versus a raked fin in both positions (back and forward in the fin box) and shares real-time feedback while surfing with a GoPro.
Back Positioning for Stability and Control
The raked fin at the back was most familiar to the speaker, offering stability during nose rides and control during turns—even in poor wave conditions. The pivot fin at the back also favored nose riding stability but with less drive in turns.
Forward Positioning for Maneuverability
Upon moving the fins forward, the speaker noticed increased responsiveness and maneuverability. The r fin became more agile, while the pivot fin, while more prone to instability, added a fun and reactive feel to the surfing experience. However, the pivot fin offered less stability when moved forward, especially in choppier waters.
Concluding Advice and Reflections
The video concludes with reflections on fin positions. The center of the fin box is suggested as a good starting point, with the rear for stability and drive, and the forward for agility—especially for lighter surfers or those struggling with turns. The speaker advises that adjusting fin position can be a cost-effective substitute for purchasing multiple fins, and invites viewers to share their own preferences and questions.
Key quotes
- "I always put it all the way back and I haven't actually done a lot of experimenting."
- "Engaging the rail from the tail was a bit more reactive… a skateboard made for riding bowls versus Street boards are more snappy and work more off the tail."
- "This could be useful for people who are looking to have an easier to turn or more maneuverable board."
- "Move that fin further forwards if you do want a little bit more maneuverability in your boards."
- "It was a lot of fun to try and navigate the conditions and see how the board is reacting with the different fins."
Make it stick
- "Rearward for stability, Forward for agility" can help remember how fin position affects surfing.
- "Pivot for poise, Raked for race" encapsulates the difference in control and drive between pivot and raked fins.
- "The center is your mentor" reminds that starting with the fin in the center of the fin box is a good baseline before adjustments.
Talking points
- "I was surprised by how much the fin position actually affected the board's responsiveness and maneuverability, weren't you?"
- "What are your thoughts on the trade-off between stability and agility when it comes to fin positioning in surfboards?"
- "Did you know that just shifting the position of your fin can give you a different surfing experience without having to buy new equipment
This summary contains AI-generated information and may have important inaccuracies or omissions.