I've snapped a few FCS type fins lately on two different boards. Yeah: Kook! Don't surf shore break! Learn to turn.... and so on... I've replaced them with FCS brand, Dorsal and now I'm trying Culprit. Prices range from 15 bucks to over $100 for thruster fin sets. I've read reviews and I get the stiffness and flex idea, but can an average surfer tell the difference in a 15, 50, or a 100 buck fin set? I've snapped a left, right and a middle so now I have all sorts of odd fins to experiment with... Thanks in advance for all your kind, helpful words of advice.
In short, yes and no. Yes, fiberglass FCS or future fins are much LESS flexy than those old school plastic type fins so they are much faster. The best is glassed on fins; any kind of fin that can mimic glassed on fins is the best, because they usually provide to smoothest and fastest ride. As for different fin models amongst fiberglass fins, I think it comes down to preference but it is often hard to tell the difference between fins that are similar in dimension.
short answer is "yes". the average surfer can benefit GREATLY from swapping the stock plastic fins for proper fiberglass, honeycomb, or a fiberglass/honeycomb/carbon composite fins. to say one is "the best" is an entirely subjective thing. personally, i've recently changed my "go to" fin from FCS's G-AM template to their MF-1. things i like about the MF-1 over the G-AM? the thinner foil feels more efficient, the slightly more upright template enables a sharper turn & quicker direction change, & the long base still provides plenty of drive. if you really want to see how different fins feel in a given situation, the best thing to do is take an extra set or 2 down to the beach w/ you when you surf next & ride 5-10 waves w/ each set.
I don't know if you were kidding about riding shore break - I always see a dude surfing the North End that rides the waves to the beach. If that's you, come surf 600 block. Regardless, CB Surf Shop has an FCS center. I would pop in and check out a set or two to test out. You will notice a difference, just not in the sand.
yes fins can make a huge difference ... ... glass on fins are not necessarily "the best" at all. The base of a glass on is not as stiff as a fin system.(per GG ,who hand foils his own G-10 fin sets) The fins may not be ideal for the surfer's size, you can't change templates to fit conditions. Alot of boards today have "convertible" set-ups that allow you to go from thruster to quad , to twin + trailer etc. etc. Travel is a hassle . Lastly , If you snap a glass-on it can be a pain to find the same fin.That recently happened to me . I had to cut the remaining 2 fins off ... no fun ! good luck ~
Use those demo centers...best advice. You will find out that fins can make a night and day difference with a board.
