Whilst all boards have their place in the line up, the twin fin holds a special place in our hearts. Smooth lines, easy to paddle, adaptable to heaps of conditions and fun to ride, if you were after a one board quiver, we’d recommend the humble twinny. Here’s why.
Speed: One of the most noticeable characteristics of a twin fin is its speed. Unlike a thruster with its central fin acting as a rudder, the twin fin cuts through the water with minimal drag. This becomes a significant advantage on smaller, less powerful waves. Where a thruster might struggle to generate momentum, a twin fin can fly. Paddling and catching waves becomes easier, and the board glides effortlessly across the water's surface. This advantage extends to larger waves as well.
Flow: Removing the centre fin dramatically impacts a board’s ability to turn. Twin fins trade tight, aggressive manoeuvres for a smoother ride. Without the centre fin acting as a pivot point, the board feels looser, allowing for drawn-out carves and smooth rail-to-rail transitions.
Turning: While the twin fin might not be set up for mega tight turns, its turning ability is often underestimated. The lack of a centre fin allows you to move the board more readily, facilitating quick hacks and sharp turns. A great learning tool for intermediate surfers, twinnies can help you develop an understanding of how to generate turns from the board itself, rather than relying solely on fin placement.
Versatility: Whilst two fins can seem like a simple set up, twinnies are actually pretty versatile. Boards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, catering to a wide range of wave conditions. From mellow rollers to head-high waves (depending on the design), there's a twin fin out there for almost any surfer.
Setup: Twin fins aren't without their challenges. Compared to thrusters, they can feel a little less stable, especially in choppy conditions. They require a slightly different approach on the wave, with a focus on the rail and weight distribution for turning. However, for surfers willing to put in the time to adjust their style, they can fly.
Fin set up is also key. Keel fins offer a more stable, traditional feel, while upright fins are looser and more responsive.
In conclusion, we love them. Twinnies are about chasing speed, smooth turns, and having fun. Making the swap might require a slight adjustment at first, but the rewards are worth it – effortless glide, flowing lines, and a timeless style that reflects surfing's rich heritage. Interested? Get in touch or visit the factory to get your twin fin in the shaping bay.
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