Stand Up Paddle Board Fin Tutorial

Tutorial on SUP Fin Set Up

In this video clip Mick explains the different combinations of fin set ups for your stand up paddle Board.
We guide you through the correct fin set up and what fins you need for flat water stand up paddle boarding and the fin set up for using your stand up paddle board when surfing.

SUP fin placement can have a huge impact on how your board handles on the water. That’s why your paddle board fin set up is something you want to make sure you consider before you head out on your stand up paddle board.

Your paddle board is made up of 3 parts. The board, the paddle, and (even though they are the smallest) the fins - which play a vital role in the performance of your board.  Once you have your fin attached, these tips will help you optimize the performance of your board for whatever conditions you are paddling in. 

SUP FIN SETUPS

There are several different fin set ups that your SUP may have:

WHERE DO I POSITION THE MIDDLE FIN ON MY STAND UP PADDLE BOARD?

The most common fin system on SUP boards is the US fin box, which is a track that is slightly longer than the fin itself. This design allows you to customize the performance of your board via the fin placement either further toward the nose, or tail of the board.

WHEN SHOULD I USE THE SIDE FINS?

While some do like to use the side fins for non-surf paddling, many experienced boarders find that it is best to leave them off. Side fins do tend to increase the drag (or resistance) of your board which can cause you to be slower than using only the middle fin. Generally, it’s best to stick to only using the side fins, also called thruster Fins, when you are surfing.

DO I NEED THE MIDDLE FIN IF I AM USING SIDE FINS?

For the most part, yes, but there can be some exceptions to that. In flat water some do prefer the feel of the board with the side fins only and no middle fin. Personally, I find that slower and suggest paddle boarders use only the middle fin in flat water. 

In surf, you will want to position the middle fin 1” or 2” back from the front of the fin box if you are using a 2+1 fin setup (this means 2 Side fins, one Middle fin). If you are riding a 4+1 (4 thruster fins, 1 middle fin; also referred to as a Quad) setup, try it with just the 4 thruster fins for great grip on the wave, or with 2 of the thruster fins and the middle fin.

EXPERIMENT WITH YOUR SUP FIN PLACEMENT

There are a lot of subtle performance changes that can happen when you experiment with the fin placement on your SUP. Personally, right in the middle for all around paddling, but on a race/touring board all the way back to maximise the speed.  Take some time to experiment with the different options for placing the middle fin, as well as using or not using side fins to totally customize your paddling experience. 
   
Still not sure about SUP set up fin position? Contact us today info@mongoboards.com.au 

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