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5 Fins to Improve Your Stand Up Paddle Board Technique

Your stand up paddle board fin has more impact on your paddling than you think! Not only does your fin help control the direction of your board, it also plays a big part in overall speed, glide, and stability. Upgrading your fin can result in large performance increases, but it's important to note that the wrong fin for your ability and board could result in decreased performance.

For example a bigger fin can create more grip and stability which for an unstable paddler can be huge win! Conversely, that same fin for a stable performance seeking paddler may feel like they're dragging through the water. When you tune up your board, selecting the correct fin can create better glide, release, and reactivity. Here is a small list of options to consider when upgrading your fin. Feel free to give us a call for your free comprehensive fin consult with Jonathan!

Black Project Ray 24 V2 Stand Up Paddleboard Fin

Black Project Ray 24 V2 Stand Up Paddleboard Fin

$175.00

The Black Project Ray 24 V2 offers intermediate and up stand up paddle boarders a fin upgrade for flatwater touring and racing. Offering extra stability and enhanced tracking and glide, the Ray 24 V2's length really shines in light chop and when longer distances when stability really matters.

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Black Project Tiger 21 V2 Stand Up Paddleboard Fin

shop the Black Project Tiger 21 V2 Stand Up Paddleboard Fin

$175.00

The Black Project Tiger 21 V2 offers advanced performance seeking stand up paddle boarders a fin upgrade for flatwater touring and racing. The Tiger 21 V2's shape makes it a great all around fin with enhanced performance in flatwater races with numerous buoy/pivot turns.

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Black Project Maliko 21 V3 Stand Up Paddleboard Fin

shop the Black Project Maliko 21 V3 Stand Up Paddleboard Fin

$175.00

The all new Black Project Maliko 21 V3 offers intermediate to advanced stand up paddle boarders a fin upgrade for open ocean, surf, and downwind paddling. The Maliko 21 features a surf inspired outline that allows the paddlers to connect swells more easily and efficiently. The Maliko is designed to maximize maneuverability and glide during downwinders, but performs equally well in large, open rivers with strong directional flow.

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Imagine Snap in 9" Stand Up Paddleboard Fin

imagine 9" snap in stand up paddleboard fin

$49.99

The Imagine snap in 9" fin offers a sweet upgrade for recreational paddlers. This fin just slides right into the fin box without the use of hardware! Makes set up and break down of boards, especially inflatables a breeze.

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WFS 9" Stand Up Paddleboard and Surf Fin

WFS 9" Stand Up Paddleboard and Surf Fin

$19.99

It's all fun and games until someone loses a fin! You learn pretty quickly that your paddle board needs a fin for efficient tracking and directional control. Don't get caught without a spare!

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FIN USE SCENARIO FROM COACH JONATHAN

When I first used my 2022 Starboard Sprint 14’ X 23” I needed more stability so I initially paired it with a Black Project Ray 24” V2. Now that I’ve developed a more appropriate technique for the narrower board, I enjoy the Black Project Tiger 21" V2.

I still use the Ray 24” when conditions go beyond what the Starboard Sprint is suited for and it smooths out the ride and makes me feel more confident and stable.

A new fin melded with the following will enhance your experience.

  1. Fundamentally sound technique.
  2. The proper width board for your ability.
  3. The correct length paddle and blade size. (we are seeing lots of problems out there)
  4. Don’t over train on the water. Some athletes volume is way too high!
  5. Make sure you have a good off water cardio and strength program. 
black project ray 24 v2 stand up paddleboard fin
Previous article The 2023 Starboard Sprint Zero 14': Reinventing Performance Paddleboarding

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