What do the fins on the back of a surfboard do?, does it matter if u lose the middle one, can u still surf ok?

Question

What do the fins on the back of a surfboard do?, does it matter if u lose the middle one, can u still surf ok?

Answer 1

Our good buddy Santa Cruz Sol Surfer gave a real good explanation of the purpose of fins and how their placement can effect control and maneuverability. If you picture the flow of water around a fin, it is very similar to the flow of air around an airplane wing. Fins create 'drag' which may tend to slow a board down, depending on shape (water flow), and surface area.

In the early 70's 'twin fin' boards were all the rage. Wider tails, and thus wider fin placement allowed for sharper turns, with less drag while still minimizing the loss of control. The two fins each had about the same surface area as the standard single fin used on 70's short boards. I surfed a modified square tail twin fin board (6'4") from the seventies into the Early nineties.

Now there is a resurgence in the popularity of twin fin boards, mostly fish. I have a custom made twin fin fish that is the best board I have ever ridden. I wish I had it thirty years ago, when I was good enough to have REALLY made the most of it.

So, you don't NEED that middle fin. If the 'thrusters' have enough surface area, and a placed right, you can surf pretty well without it.

Answer 2

fins provide the board, among other things, stability and control. fin placement also matters; the more fin area, the more drag, control, and stablility. with less fin area, the board becomes faster, but control is lost. as the fins are moved forward towards the board's nose, "pivot-ability" and maneuverability are increased, but stability and drive are decreased. as the fins are moved towards the tail of the board, the board becomes stiffer and more "drivey." needless to say, if you break or loose a fin, get it replaced. as to whether or not you can surf without it i don't know; i've never tried. things probably wouldn't work out too well though.

depending on what brand (fcs, futures, etc.) and type (glassed on, removable, etc.) things can get complicated and sometimes expensive. but just know that a surfboard will be relatively un-surfable without fins.

Answer 3

The fins on a surfboard give the ability to turn and have stabiblity when riding. This also lets you stay above the water otherwise, your board may flip over a lot. It is possible to surf still but it may be more difficult if you lose the middle fin. It is easy to replace either way. I would sugest replacing it.

Answer 4

----fins help you use the flow and momentum of thew wave to your advantage---

and yeah bro you can surf without a middle fin.... most "fish" shaped surfboards have no middle fin to begin with....

... but without the fin the board will feel more loose... this can be good or bad

---in a controlled state with a little skill added will give you great response for tearing up small waves. while for a beginner youll wobble like h**l.

play around.. find what fits you best... because everyone is different.