OK so this post is clearly not for the experienced surfers that habit the forums but for those out there that, well, maybe aren't so experienced.
There may have even been topics on this before but I thought I would take a moment to discuss fins as an alternative to necessarily buying a new board. (Unless you really want one of course in which case I say "go nuts"!)
To the point. I recently bought myself a new board. I already own this particular make and model of board (and love it) in a 6'6" but wanted a 6'4" for a slighter shorter outline. As I am a slightly larger bloke 6'1" and 90 kgs I surf large fins which were not recommended for this new board. I had ordered some medium fins but whilst waiting their delivery threw on my large (PC7's) which I ride on my 6'6". Terrible is the best way to describe the feeling. On my 6'6" they work well, giving good drive and a pivotal turn. Take 2" inches off the board length and a couple of other refinements and it all changes. The first turn I went to crank into I actually spat myself off the side of the board whilst it continued down the face of the wave. Thereafter I had to really set my rail before making a turn.
A friend lent me a set of K2.1's and the transformation was ridiculous. Loose and pivotal and not too small for my carcass which was previously a concern of mine with going for medium fins which "they" say are only good for up to 80 kgs. (I now own a set of my own in addition to some newly purchased PC5's)
The moral to the story is this. If you are slightly frustrated with your board and think you need a new one, perhaps consider experimenting with fins first. The same board can feel like a completely different one at about 1/8th the cost.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not anti board purchase (clearly) but if funds are tight and you're looking for a different feel, borrow some if you need to first, but try some different size, shape, composite fins and you may be very very surprised.
Today's lesson brought to you by Fozzy incorporated.
