As we all know different numbers, size and sharp of the fin will effect the paddle board stability, the speed and steering flexibility, if you play the board often, you will deeply has this kind of feeling. It makes your paddle board to perform differently by adjust the tail fins.
Today we will introduce the tail fins from different levels to let you know how to get your board performed better.
The Number Of Fin
1.Single Fin
There is only one middle caudal fin, and it is mainly large caudal fin. It is usually used for paddling in flat or still water. Although the number of tail fins is reduced, it perfectly reduces drag and increases additional speed. But because there is only one tail fin, the stability is not very good, which means that the paddler needs to have a better balance ability.
2.Triple Fins
It's a large main tail fin in the middle, plus two smaller fins. Compared with single tail fin, 2 + 1 tail fin has obvious advantages in overall stability, but it will increase resistance and reduce speed.
For the 2+1 tain fins also has 2 models, one kind is three fins can be removed, it will be easy for the package flatly but will be easy to lost the fins; another kind is the big fin can be removed the 2 small one will be fixed, in this way it will not easy to lost the small fins.
The Fin’s Shape
1.The Swept Back Fin
The advantage is that the swept back fin makes it easier to draw a straight line by moving the center of gravity of the fin backward, and because the tail fin has a large surface area, it also makes the lateral stability of the paddle better, belonging to a long-distance fin.
The disadvantage is that if the paddler wants to turn quickly, it will be very painful. Because it is large enough and has greater resistance, it will not be the fastest tail fin.
Suitable type: long-distance cruise / linear racing board
2.Upright Style
The upright Style tail fin is opposite to the swept back tail fin, and most of its area remains above the tail fin. Due to its small area, it will produce less resistance and travel faster in water.
The advantage is that the shape of the tail fin is more suitable for paddlers who want to row and turn quickly.
The disadvantage is that it is not suitable to go in a straight line.
Applicable type: Racing Supboard
This is the most common type of tail fin, probably 80% of the paddles are used. It combines the swept back and upright style fins, providing the best choice of the two types of fins. It is an all-round fin.
The utility model has the advantages that the tail fin shape is suitable for surfing and general calm water, especially for beginners.
The disadvantage is that it is not suitable for more performance expert competition paddles.
Suitable type: all directional paddles from cruising to surfing are available.
Conclusion:
Larger tail fins will improve tracking and stability;
Smaller tail fins will improve speed and steering maneuverability.
The Fin’s position
In many cases, we will find that the size of the tail fin groove may be much longer than that of the tail fin. This is because the tail fin in different positions of the tail fin groove will have different functions and bring different experiences. So where should we place the tail fin in the tail fin groove when installing the fin?
1.Tail fin near the head of the paddle board
More suitable for: surfing
The advantage is: the tail fin is close to the head of the board, which will make your board more flexible and responsive, and catch waves easily. Therefore, it is recommended to use this installation method when surfing. But the disadvantage of this method is also obvious, that is, the straight line is not very good, and the board is easy to drift laterally.
2.Tail Fin near the tail of the paddle board
More suitable for: long-time cruise rowing
The tail fin close to the tail of the board will increase the stability and speed of the board, but it is just opposite to the installation at the head of the back board. This installation method is more suitable for walking in a straight line, so it is commonly used in straight-line racing or long-time paddle cruising. But this means that its steering speed will slow down. If you need to row a long distance and want to maximize the cruise speed, you can install the tail fin at the tail of the backup plate.
The disadvantages are: it is more suitable for walking in a straight line, and it takes a little effort to turn. If you want to turn faster, you need to step back your body's center of gravity to achieve the effect of fast turning.
3.The tail fin is located in the middle of the groove
More suitable for: any situation that needs to be compatible with cruise timeliness and flexibility
This is the most commonly used installation method and the most versatile use method. It is compatible with stability and speed. If you are not sure what kind of installation effect you need, it is recommended to install it in the middle.
Fins Installation
1. Insert and lock directly
There will be 2 different way to install the tail fins, one is insert and use the lock to install directly, which is easy to install and remove but it has risk to lost the fin.
2. Use the Screws to fix
Another way is to use the screw to fix the fin, however, the screw will be rusty after longtime used, causing the fins stucked and damage.
