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Understand the shape, size, and positioning of this underrated piece of SUP equipment - see examples of fins every paddler needs to have in their quiver! 

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has seen a significant increase in popularity as a sport that combines fitness with enjoyment of the outdoors. Regular participation in SUP activities is not only a delightful experience; research indicates it may also improve cardiovascular health, enhance balance, and alleviate stress. As discussions emerge about SUP potentially becoming an Olympic sport in the future, now is an excellent time to get involved.

Part of beginning your journey into SUP involves choosing the right SUP fins. This can be complex and somewhat confusing. There are plenty of shapes, sizes, and materials to choose from. So many, that it's difficult to know what to buy and when to use it.

The content team of Perfect Paddles conducted comprehensive research, analyzing various options based on their price, design, and performance in different water conditions to assist you in finding the best SUP fins on the market.

How We Gathered Information About Fins and Selected Them for the Article

To understand everything we needed to know about fins, as well as choose the best available for an easy purchase, we first asked a few of our experts for their advice on the importance of fins and what to look for in a quality product.: 

• Erin O’Malley, SUP instructor and owner of Sunset Stand Up Paddle in Laguna Beach, California

• Tim Sanford, WPA-certified, Paddle Fit SUP instructor, coach, guide, and owner of the ASI-accredited Paddle Method School in Los Angeles, California

They shared with us their extensive knowledge of SUP fins and the latest technology – including the Boost Fin. 

This research session led us to create this article full of everything you need to know about SUP fins, what models to buy for what activity you wish to try, and everything in between. We hope you find it useful. 

While we value experience over any certification body, The Perfect Paddles content team includes  SUP coaches, teachers, and guides, all certified in SUP instruction from PSUPA, WPA, Paddlefit, ACI, and ACA. As well as personal trainers with credentials from ACE and NASM. As well as US Coast Guard auxiliaries, members of race committees, and SUP enthusiasts who have paddled around the world from surf to sea and every river and lake in between.

Below you'll find our top recommendations for SUP fins, tailored to accommodate a diverse array of activities — from peaceful yoga practices on calm lakes to adventurous paddling on dynamic open water. And read below for further information on SUP fins including length, setup, and even what fin boxes are and why you need to know about them!

Note: This is a comprehensive article – to jump between sections please use the aquamarine table of contents box to the left margin.

Plus, you're going to want to see an exciting development in SUP fin technology listed below. It might be the next big leap when it comes to SUP!

Let's get into it!

Our Top Fin Picks for Paddlers in All Waters

• Best for Recreational Paddlers

--> SBS 10" Standard Fin: The standard, everyday fin. If there was just 1 fin you need in your quiver, it's this one. Great for paddling long distances or catching waves, you really can't go wrong with a standard fin.

--> HLOGREE 9'' SUP Fin Quick Release: For the recreational paddler, a quick-release SUP fin is a game-changer: it simplifies board setup and packing down, letting you switch between water conditions with ease and without the fuss of tools. Plus, it makes transporting your SUP a breeze, especially on those spontaneous paddle adventures.

Jump to Recreational Section

• Best for Touring

--> Red Paddle Co. 8" Flex Fin: What makes this cruising fin unique is the fact that it's a flex fin. Meaning, you can run into debris without having to worry about your fin cracking or breaking. A little peace of mind goes a long way when you're out there cruising.

--> saruSurf 9" Touring Fin: While this fin may look like a racing fin (and it can be used for that activity) the fact that it's made from a heavier fiberglass material pretty much makes it strictly a touring fin. The wider base, and longer depth, will keep you paddling straight for miles at a time!

Jump to Touring Section

• Best for Racing

--> Shapers 9" Fiberglass Fin: While this fin is designed to improve tracking, it doesn't sacrifice mobility. Its narrower base will allow for easier turning compared to the other fins.

--> Red Paddle Co. 9" Carbon Fiber Race Fin (Red Honeycomb): The ultimate racing fin. The carbon fiber, honeycomb design makes for a lightweight fin with a wide shape for incredible tracking features. The curved design allows for smooth movement through every stroke. And the wide base will improve your balance ability even in the roughest waters.

--> FCS Fins - FCS II SUP Slater Trout Glass Flex: If it's good enough for Slater Trout, then it's good enough to get you where you want to go! This classic race fin design reaches the farthest down into the water for tracking, speed, and balance. There's a reason why this fin's shape is favored on the race circuit - it works!

Jump to Racing Section 

• Best for River SUP

--> VAMO 4.6" Findestructible River SUP Fin: With a catchy name like "findestructible" the VAMO River SUP fin is designed for any abuse a wild river might bring on!

--> RPC 4.6" River SUP Fin: Very similar to the VAMO River SUP fin - the Red Paddle Co. fin can take a beating as well and keep on going.

Jump to River SUP Section

• Best for SUP Surfing

--> SBS Premium 10" SUP and Surf Single Fin: The ultimate longboard fin. If you are surfing mellow, longboard waves and want to cruise, this is the fin for you.

--> UpSurf Side Bite Fin Pack: Side bites are an important part of your fin quiver. Especially if you're SUP surfing larger waves. These high-quality side bite fins are made for Futures fin boxes.

--> Abahub Thruster Fin Set for FCS Fin Boxes: Very similar to UpSurf fins, these are made for a thruster set up with FCS Fin boxes. To learn the difference between fin boxes, keep reading below!

Jump to SUP Surfing Section 

• Best Electronic Fins for an Extra Boost

--> Boost Fin: The most wallet-friendly way to supercharge your SUP experience! Comes with a handy bracelet for convenient speed control on the go.

--> DGLUYUDV SUP Motor Fin Battery Electric Fin: Elevate your fishing sessions with this fin. Designed with anglers in mind, it's perfect for trolling, ensuring you never miss a prime spot.

--> Surfboard Tail Thruster Electric: Tailored for longboards and excelling in smaller waves, this thruster introduces an electric surge to traditional surfing, letting you ride waves like never before.

Jump to Electric Fin Section

SUP Fin Buyer's Guide

Recreational

Recreational SUP fins are versatile and tailored to cater to the general paddling needs of enthusiasts who aren't necessarily specialized in any one type of paddling activity. These fins typically have a moderate surface area, blending the characteristics of both racing and surf fins to offer a balanced performance.

Unlike racing fins, recreational fins will be more curved and might be slightly shorter (but not always), focusing on a mix of stability, tracking, and maneuverability.

The incorporation of quick-release mechanisms in some recreational fins means that setting up or packing down becomes a hassle-free experience, making it an excellent choice for those who like spontaneous paddle outings.

Examples of recreational fins:

SBS 10" Standard Fin:

HLOGREE 9'' SUP Fin Quick Release:

Aqua 9" – Inflatable Paddleboard Fin:

Red Paddle Co. 8" Flex Fin:

Pros:

• Versatility: Designed to handle a mix of conditions, making them suitable for most casual paddle outings.
• Good Tracking & Maneuverability: Strikes a balance between mai ntaining a straight line and allowing for easy turns.
• Quick Set-Up: With the advent of quick-release mechanisms, these fins are super easy to attach and detach without the need for any tools.
• Suitable for All Levels: Ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers who aren't focusing on specialized activities.

Cons:

• Jack of All Trades, Master of None: While they handle various conditions, they may not excel in any particular one like specialized fins.
• Potential for Less Stability: Might not offer the same stability as longer, racing fins, especially in more challenging conditions.
• Quick Release Concerns: There's a potential for accidental releases if not securely fastened, and they might not be as durable as traditional fin setups.
• Not Specialized: Experienced paddlers looking for specific performance characteristics might find them lacking in certain areas.

Touring Fins

Alright, let's dive into touring fins. Think of these as the perfect middle ground between racing and recreational fins. Designed for those days where you fancy a long paddle session, but without the competitive edge. Going on an expedition? These might be your best buddies.

Design-wise, touring fins strike a balance. They're not as deep-digging as racing fins, but they aren’t as compact as recreational ones either. Their gentle curve makes sure the water flows smoothly, ensuring you're going straight but with enough flexibility to turn when you want to. It's like having the best of both worlds!

Now, for some clear-cut differences between touring, racing, and recreational fins:

Purpose: Racing fins are all about speed and winning those competitions. Touring fins, on the other hand, are for those who love longer journeys on a mix of waters. They’re your adventure companions. And recreational fins? Simply put, they're the cool, casual ones for a relaxed SUP day out.

Design: Racing fins have that big, block-like shape and they really dive into the water. Touring fins meet you halfway with a moderate size and that handy curve. As for recreational fins, they're the shorter, easy-going variety.

Performance: Racing fins? Champions of going straight. But if you want to make a quick turn, they might make you work a bit harder. Touring fins are the in-betweeners - good at going straight and still reasonably nimble. Recreational fins are all about easy handling, making them perfect for SUP newbies or those in the mood for a chill paddle.

Some touring fins to check out:

saruSurf 9" Touring Fin:

VAMO Findestructable 9.5" Touring Fin for Paddleboard Flat Water Paddling:

Pros:

• Jack of All Trades: They've got a bit of everything - tracking, maneuverability, and versatility.
• A Safe Bet for Different Waters: Whether it’s a calm lake or a slightly choppy coast, these fins have got your back.
• Less Likely to Snag: Not too deep, not too shallow. Just right to keep you from getting stuck in awkward spots.
• For Those Stepping Up Their Game: Great if you’re moving on from beginner fins but aren't quite into the racing scene yet.

Cons:

• Master of None?: They're versatile, but if you're looking for something super specialized, they might fall short.
• Middle Child Syndrome: By trying to be good at everything, they might not be the absolute best in any specific area.
• Not the Top Choice for the Pros: Hardcore racers might want something a tad more efficient.

Racing

Racing fins have more overall surface area. And they are more block-like in construction as opposed to curved. 

In addition, they have a wider base and are usually longer and extend deeper into the water.

They are shaped this way to provide better tracking (the ability to paddle straight for longer periods of time) and stability in the water.

However, with more stability and tracking comes a tougher time turning the board.

The wider base and more surface area mean you will have more drag side to side when executing a pivot turn.

Examples of racing fins:

Shapers 9" Race Fin:

Red Paddle Co 9" Carbon Fiber Race Fin:

FCS Fins - FCS II SUP Slater Trout Glass Flex:

Pros:

• Improved Tracking: The design aids in maintaining a straight path for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent corrections.
• Greater Stability: The wider base and longer design mean the board is less likely to wobble, offering more confidence to the paddler.
• Better for Long Distances: Designed for races or long touring sessions, they ensure less zig-zagging and therefore more efficient energy use.
• Handles Varied Conditions: Often, touring/racing fins are built to manage a variety of water conditions, offering consistent performance.

Cons:

• Reduced Maneuverability: Pivot turns or sharp direction changes can be more challenging due to the fin's larger surface area.
• Increased Drag: The more block-like structure and increased surface area can slow down the board, especially during side-to-side movements.
• Potential for Snags: The deeper fin may catch on underwater obstacles in shallow waters, like weeds or rocks.
• Not Ideal for Casual Paddling: Those just looking for a leisurely paddle might find the fin too specialized and less versatile for varied activities.

River Fins

If you plan on paddling rivers you're going to first want to invest in a river fin.

River fins are made of flexible materials and are much smaller in length – coming in around 4.5" as opposed to 8"+.

This is due to the fact that you will be paddling with obstacles commonly found in rivers such as rocks or fallen trees, as opposed to lake or ocean paddling. 

To get a good idea of what River SUP is like, hear it first hand from the godfather of the whitewater Dan Gavere:

You don't want to be peacefully paddling along and suddenly come to a short stop by hitting a rock or stump. This will cause you to lurch forward, lose balance, and possibly fall in.

The flexible materials are important for the same reason — if you hit something the fin will bend instead of break.

Example of river SUP fins:

Pros:

• Avoid Obstacles: The reduced length is specifically designed to minimize the chances of hitting common river obstacles like rocks or fallen trees.
• Flexibility + Durability: Made of materials that bend upon impact, ensuring that they're less likely to break if they do come into contact with something.
• Safety: The design and material help in preventing sudden stops that could throw you off balance and into the water.
• Specialized for River Paddling: Tailored for the unique challenges of river SUP, ensuring a better and safer experience.

Cons:

• Not Ideal for Open Waters: Due to their size and design, they might not provide the same stability or tracking as longer fins in lakes or oceans.
• Reduced Glide: The smaller surface area can mean less glide efficiency in calmer waters compared to standard or racing fins.
• Limited to Specific Conditions: While they're great for rivers, they might not be the best choice for other water environments.

SUP Surfing Fins

For those looking to catch some waves with their paddleboard, SUP surfing fins are the way to go. These fins are designed to give riders more control and agility on the waves, allowing them to carve turns and maintain speed just like traditional surfing.

SUP surfing fins are usually more raked (curved) and are shorter than racing or touring fins. They often come in a tri-fin or quad-fin setup, which helps to provide better control and responsiveness while on a wave.

Example of SUP Surfing Fins:

SBS Premium 10" SUP and Surf Single Fin:

Abahub Thruster Fin Set for FCS Fin Boxes:

UpSurf Side Bite Fin Pack:

Pros:

• Enhanced Maneuverability: The raked design and multi-fin setup allow for quick and sharp turns, essential for riding waves.
• Responsive Control: These fins are designed to respond to the surfer’s movements, providing precise control while surfing.
• Customization: Surfers can choose different fin setups (single, tri-fin, quad-fin) based on their riding style and the wave conditions.
• Improved Speed Control: SUP surfing fins allow for better control of speed while on a wave, enabling surfers to position themselves optimally.

Cons:

• Not Ideal for Flat Water: These fins are specialized for wave conditions and may not provide the best tracking or stability in flat water environments.
• Reduced Stability: The design that allows for sharp turns and agility on waves might lead to less stability when not surfing.
• Learning Curve: For beginners, handling a SUP with surfing fins can be challenging and may require practice to master.
• Potential for Snags: Like other fins, they can catch on underwater obstacles in shallow waters, like reefs or rocks.

Electronic Fins

Boost Fin: Catch Waves With Ease, Power Through the Wind, Make it Back to Shore Safely, And Have a Whole Lot of Fun On Your SUP While Doing It!

Imagine a paddleboard session where you can navigate the waters without a hint of fatigue or fighting against the wind. If you've been caught in a current or struggled with white water, then Boost Fin is your ticket to seamless paddling. With an astonishing 11,500 pre-orders on Kickstarter and Indiegogo, this innovation is set to transform your SUP experience.

At its core, the Boost Fin isn't just another paddleboard accessory. It revolutionizes how you enjoy your time on the water. From catching waves to battling against a gusty wind, Boost promises an exhilarating ride.

The handheld controller, designed for maximum convenience, puts control literally at your fingertips. Whether you're looking for a power surge or a short boost to tackle a challenge, the Boost Fin delivers.

Three distinct modes cater to every SUP enthusiast:

• SUP Assistance mode for up to 100 minutes of exploration.
• Wind/Current Resistance mode for those tougher days, offering 40 minutes of robust support.
• Trolling mode, where you can leisurely cruise for up to 70 minutes.

Venturing further and exploring more has never been this achievable.

Wondering if the Boost Fin is for you? Whether you're an adventurer seeking new waterscapes or a SUP instructor aiming to ensure student safety, Boost Fin promises to redefine paddleboarding.

If you'd like to try one first-hand, contact Paddle Method and set up a demo today! You'll be able to feel exactly what it's like to paddle with a Boost Fin on your board. Try one before you buy one!

For a closer look, here's a more detailed perspective from a paddling professional who tried it first-hand:

Notes from Tim Sanford, Paddle Method, Los Angeles, CA:

"Having taught SUP since 2010 in LA, my mission has been to equip paddlers with techniques to navigate challenging conditions. Initially, I was quite skeptical about e-fins. However, a hands-on encounter with the Boost Fin made me reconsider.

My prime concern was the drag. Fortunately, Boost Fin's design, complete with a cowling, ensures drag minimization while preventing debris from affecting the prop. Although there's some drag, it's manageable.

Its capability to provide that extra boost, especially during upwind paddles, is amazing, especially for beginners. Here in LA, we often paddle against winds of 10 to 12 + knots, and while I personally enjoy the challenge, Boost Fin can be the helping hand many newcomers need.

For context, I’m a bigger but very experienced flat and open water paddler at 225lbs and SUP surf as well as teach it. I tested this in flat, calm waters with wind below 5mph on a 11’6 x32” SUP. Lighter paddlers might have a different experience.

I'd advise caution in using it for surfing. There isn't much testing data on torsional strength and how this could impact the fin box. Also, while it may assist in catching waves, it doesn’t offer any performance once you’re riding them. This might be good to get between waves and launch in a surf zone but this is a chunk of plastic near your head if you’re timing is off (best to learn technique and timing before trying it in the surf). Additionally, in busy marinas where stopping quickly is a necessary skill paddlers should be prepared to add the extra step of cutting power and then using their paddle to stop.

Bottom Line

Overall, I’m more impressed with it than I thought I would be but do have concerns that this can get inexperienced paddlers 30/90 minutes from shore and then not be able to paddle back. In the event of a fall you would have to stop the motor with the wrist control and a leash  is a good idea so your board doesn't motor away. As always, have a buddy, know before you go, and always work on your skills."

Examples of Electronic Fins:

Boost Fin ($499):

DGLUYUDV SUP Motor Fin Battery Electric Fin ($679)

Surfboard Tail Thruster Electric ($856)

SUP Fins: Fin Box

A fin box is where the fin slides into the underside of the board.

There are Universal Fin boxes (or US Fin boxes) FCS Fin boxes, and Futures Fin boxes.

Most SUP boards come standard with universal boxes which means after-market fins will work with most boards.

Surfboards and some SUP surfboards come with FCS and Futures fin boxes.

And most inflatable boards have a slide-in fin system with a clip to secure the fin into the box. These are especially popular with iSUPs on the market today.

What you want to avoid having a fin that's too long. This can cause it to snag on obstacles - like rocks, trees, debris, etc., and potentially break your fin box. This will result in a costly repair. Keep that in mind before heading out.

It’s a good practice to find out what fin box your potential board has before you purchase. This information will come in handy if you want to purchase an aftermarket fin or need to borrow one from a friend.

SUP Fins: Length

The average fin measures around 9" for cruisers and touring boards, 3” to 7” for surf, 9” plus for racing boards, and 4.5” for river SUP boards. 

The longer the fin, the deeper it extends into the water, and the better the tracking it provides for the paddler. Tracking is defined as how straight and how far a paddle board moves through the water with a single stroke.

A board with low tracking with bob side to side in the water forcing you to switch paddle hands frequently. A board with optimal tracking will move far and straight with just a single paddle stroke without forcing you to switch hands very often. 

The shorter the fin, the worse tracking you will have, but the greater the maneuverability.

The correct choice in length will depend on the environment you will be paddling in and the type of paddling you will be doing.

SUP Fins: Setup

Fins can come in a variety of setups. It depends on the type of board you own and the number of fin boxes installed. 

On SUP surfboards or flat water boards, you will typically find the option for a single fin setup, a thruster setup (three fins), or a quad setup (four fins) with some variation on this industry standard.

Single fin setups are most common for flat water paddling or longboard/SUP surfboards as they provide the best tracking over long distances with the least amount of drag. 

Thruster fin setups provide an additional two layers of contact on the water and are common in inflatable boards or SUP surfboards. The two extra side bites help the board to track even better and will provide stability on a hard bottom turn in the surf. 

Even with the added tracking you will not find SUP racers using thruster setups as it can create too much drag in the water and slow their times. 

Quad fin setups are typically not found in flat water boards. Instead, you will see them in SUP surfboards. This is because they provide ultimate maneuverability on the water which is important for hard bottom turns on a wave. But on flat water, they don’t tend to track well. Instead, you will find yourself bobbing side to side instead of in a straight line.

SUP Fins: Position

One aspect that is often overlooked is the fin position.

Placing your fin forward (or more towards the nose) will allow you to turn more easily. It reduces the drag a fin has moving side to side when you want to make a quick turn. 

A backward position will stiffen up your board allowing you to track straight for a longer period of time but will make it more difficult to turn left or right. The reason for this is the same as above, a fin that is placed towards the back of a board will increase the drag moving side to side. 

Both of these positions are great for performance paddling situations such as racing – staying straighter and faster over a long distance or surfing – turning your board quicker on a wave. But for the average cruising paddler, placing the fin in the middle position is the best spot. 

When it is placed there, you will have a good balance between maneuverability and tracking.   

What Fin Should You Use?

Even with all this extra information on fins, if you do stick with a standard 9" fin that is good for flat water and SUP surfing then you will do just fine.

But for those of you who want to take your SUP skills to a different environment or activity – make sure you have the correct equipment to match before heading out.

Frequently Asked Questions About SUP Fins (FAQs)

Q1: Why are SUP fins important?

A: SUP fins are crucial for the stability and maneuverability of your paddleboard. They help the board track straight, stabilize it against side-to-side rocking, and enable you to turn efficiently. Fins significantly influence your SUP experience based on the water conditions and the type of paddling you are doing.

Q2: What are the different types of SUP fins available?

A: The article highlights four main types of SUP fins: Touring/Racing Fins, Standard/Surf Style Fins, River Fins, and Electronic Fins (e.g., Boost Fin). Each type is designed for specific conditions and paddling styles.

Q3: How do I choose the right fin for my SUP?

A: Consider your paddling environment (e.g., river, lake, ocean), your goals (e.g., racing, leisure, yoga), and the fin box compatibility with your board. Also, pay attention to fin length, base width, material, and setup (single, thruster, quad) to match your needs.

Q4: What is a fin box, and why does it matter?

A: A fin box is where the fin attaches to the underside of your SUP board. Knowing the type of fin box your board has (Universal, FCS, or Futures) is essential as it dictates which fins you can use with your board.

Q5: How does fin length affect my SUP experience?

A: Longer fins extend deeper into the water and provide better tracking, helping you paddle straighter and more efficiently. Shorter fins offer greater maneuverability but may not track as well.

Q6: What is the significance of fin position?

A: Fin position affects your board’s performance. Placing the fin forward (towards the nose) enhances turning ability, while placing it backward (towards the tail) improves straight-line tracking. A middle position offers a balance between maneuverability and tracking.

Q7: What is the Boost Fin?

A: The Boost Fin is a revolutionary electronic fin that attaches to your SUP board. It includes a handheld controller and various modes to assist your paddling, help fight against tough weather conditions, or let you cruise effortlessly. It's designed for both exploration and safety.

Q8: Are river fins suitable for ocean or lake paddling?

A: River fins are specifically designed for paddling in rivers, where obstacles like rocks and trees are common. They are typically shorter and made of flexible materials. While they can be used in other water conditions, they might not offer the same level of performance as fins designed for those environments.

Q9: Why might racers avoid using thruster setups?

A: Thruster setups, which involve three fins, provide great stability and tracking but can create more drag in the water, potentially slowing down a racer’s times.

Q10: Is it easy to install an electronic fin like the Boost Fin?

A: Yes, installing the Boost Fin is designed to be straightforward. It typically involves watching a short instructional video and following the steps, allowing you to transform your SUP into a powered device in just a few minutes.

Why Trust Perfect Paddles

At Perfect Paddles, we are your trusted companion on the water. Our curated directory of experiences and expertise is populated by over 1,000 certified coaches and guides worldwide who regularly contribute their insights. We conduct comprehensive, unbiased research, consulting with renowned experts and engaging with the global SUP community to bring you the latest and most reliable SUP gear recommendations and tips. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned paddler, rely on Perfect Paddles for world-class SUP experiences, tailored advice, and trusted gear recommendations that suit all levels of paddlers in diverse environments. Now, let's go paddle!

About the Author

Daniel

Daniel is a travelling author with a passion for exploring new waterways and sharing his experiences with the world.