Know the Most Common Fins and Configurations for Surfboards
24 Mar 2020 For venturavan. In Sin categorÃa Comments (0)
Different keels or also called fins allow the board to react differently. They are of different sizes and made with different kinds of materials, which will provide flexibility, to a greater or lesser extent.
Know simple Configurations for Surfboards
The larger keels provide greater control of the board against the waves, while the smaller keels allow you more freedom of movement in smaller waves. There are fixed and removable keels.
The fixed, glazed keels are already incorporated into the board and are more solid than the removable ones, but at the same time this makes them very sensitive to shocks when transported. In case you have to change them, this is a somewhat complicated and expensive job, which must be done by a knowledgeable shaper, so that the keel is perfectly positioned and firm. This fin system is rarely used anymore, as most surfers prefer to equip their boards with removable fins.
For its part, the removable keels are practically the most used since the 90s, they are divided into keels with an FCS system that is fixed with screws and FCS ll that only fit with a special keel wrench, and in less than a minute you can have the settings you want in your table.
The more fins or keels placed on the board, the greater its stability, but its progress or speed will decrease. Beginners typically incorporate a keel behind to increase control on long boards.
On short boards or Fish Surfboard, two fins provide greater maneuverability and additional speed in medium waves. Although, when it comes to facing bigger waves, you may notice that the tail of the board tends to slide to the side.
Choosing a three-propeller keel configuration is very common, with the outer keels tilting inward for faster turning.
Created by the Australian Simon Anderson in 1980, it is currently the most popular keel configuration among surfers as it makes it possible to perform many radical maneuvers, allowing waves and tubes to be caught with high maneuverability and stability. They are ideal for high-performance surfing.
Finally, incorporating four keels or quads into the board brings together the benefits of two-keel and propeller keel configurations.
If the rear keels are placed close to the rails, they will offer excellent performance in small waves, with fast, controlled turns. Advanced surfers put quads further back on the board, for extra grip on large hollow or pronounced waves.
If you are a beginner, now you know the importance of choosing the ideal keels for your level of surfing. Enjoy your board!
