The most important things in a nutshell:
- the fin system from Future Fins offers maximum stability and FCS II and ‘Snap In’ enable a tool-free removable fin system
- often tool-less fin systems are not completely tool-less in practice
- do you want to influence your surfing feeling while surfing or experiment more with fins? With a fin system without a cant, you have the most control!
What is a fin system?
A fin system determines the mechanism for attaching and changing the fins on your surfboard. This consists of one or more plugs (also known as a fin box), depending on the fin set-up. By choosing your fin system, you determine the stability of the fins, how time-consuming it is to change the fins and, among other things, which fins are available for your system. Because not every fin is compatible with every fin system.
Why are fins important?
Finns are important if you don’t want to surf fin-free. Surfing without fins like Derek Hynd is much more difficult compared to surfing with fins, as you have less control over the board. You can compare the fins on your surfboard to the steering wheel of a car. If you want to have more control and make different maneuvers, then you need fins! Fins also ensure stability and that the nose of your surfboard points in the direction you are surfing.
What fin systems are there?
A basic distinction is made between the single-tab system (Future Fins) and the dual-tab system (FCS) in fin systems for surfing. ‘Single’ and ‘dual’ describe how many tabs are required to connect a fin to the board using screws. Other systems that do not require tabs for screwing are FCS II and Captain Fin’s ‘Snap-In’ technology. All of these fin systems are used in twins, thrusters and quads.
There are also differences in fin boxes for longboards. The larger fins are all attached to the board using a different fastening mechanism. With the exception of FCS II CONNECT fins. These fin boxes are mainly installed in longboards, single fins and duos, but also in bonzers.
Some fin systems were designed in private garages by surfers and shapers themselves. However, only the following fin systems are internationally relevant today:
- FCS I: Fin Control System developed the dual-tab system (also known as the double-tab system) and made it possible to quickly change different fins by attaching screws.
- FCS Fusion: The Fusion system is also based on a dual-tab attachment and is an improved version of its predecessor FCS I. Its fins are compatible with the Fusion system.
- FCS II: The innovative click system from FCS is based for the first time on a mechanism that allows the fins to click into the fin plug without having to screw the fins in.
- Future Fins: The single-tab system (also known as the full-tab system) from Future Fins requires one screw to attach a fin. Here, only one tab is needed to attach the fin. This means that the entire fin base is connected to the board.
- ‘Snap In’ Captain Fin: The ‘Snap In’ technology is currently the youngest fin system on the market. Here, the fin snaps into the fin box and there are no screws for fastening. It is based on a dual-tab system, which makes it compatible with all dual-tab fins.
- Longboard fin box: Fin boxes for longboards are available from a wide variety of suppliers, however, all single fins from different manufacturers fit into a longboard fin box.
Historically, there have been other manufacturers of removable fin systems, including Swivel, Red x, O’Fish’l, Advanced Fin Solution, Speeed and SurFinz. However, most of them did not stand up to FCS’s intensive marketing strategy.
In the following, we take a closer look at the fin systems that are relevant today.
The comparison - which fin system is the best?
To answer this question, we compare all fin systems with each other and look at the advantages and disadvantages of each system. This way you can decide for yourself which system is best for you.
FCS I
The first FCS fin system was developed in 1992 by Australian Brian A. Whitty and made it possible to easily change fins, which opened up new possibilities for surfers. The simplified fin change allowed more experimentation with materials and templates, which significantly improved performance surfing. Shapers were also enthusiastic about the fin system, as they no longer had to laboriously laminate the fins to the board. After the patent was granted in 1995, FCS became the market leader and benefited from the surf boom. Brand ambassadors such as Kelly Slater also contributed significantly to the success.
However, when using two plugs per fin, torsion (over-twisting or overstretching) can occur under heavy loads, e.g. during aggressive turns. This can damage the fin box and the foam of the surfboard. The first FCS system is therefore mainly used today for smaller fins, including sidebites, trailer fins (also known as stabilizers) and the outer fins of twins and singles. There is no torsion with the smaller fins, as only one plug is required for installation on the board. The system is inexpensive and relatively durable. There are still a large number of boards with this fin system today. The angle of inclination for the fin (cant) is permanently integrated in the plug and cannot be changed by changing the fins. The different cant angles of the FCS 1 pugs are available in 0°, 5° and 9°.
With the FCS I system, the fins are attached to the surfboard with a screw. Depending on the size, each fin is fixed with one or more screws, which are turned sideways in tabs to hold the fin in place.
Learn more about the FCS I fin system in the following video:
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More InformationFCS Fusion
After the loss of patent protection, the FCS 1 technology was often copied. In 2012, FCS therefore launched an optimized system on the market – the FCS Fusion Plug. The two individual plugs of the predecessor were combined to form a more stable, eight-shaped plug and covered with resin for the first time. The fusion plug is additionally reinforced with a high-density foam insert, which also significantly increases stability.
The Fusion Plug is still based on the dual-tab system and is compatible with FCS 1 fins. It was primarily developed for EPS / epoxy boards, but can also be used in PU / polyester boards (poly). The tilt angles are identical to FCS 1, but color coded: White (0°), Orange (5°) and Gray (9°). Despite the improved stability, there is still a risk of torsion, which can lead to cracks or breakage of the plug in the long term. As the system is no longer patent-protected, there are numerous fins available from third-party suppliers at fair prices.
With the FCS Fusion system, the fins are attached in the same way as with the FCS 1.
Find out more about FCS Fusion in the following video:
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More InformationFCS II
In 2013, FCS launched a completely new technology on the market with the FCS II system. The tab system with screws is replaced by a plug-in system which, according to the manufacturer, makes fixing the fins with a fin key superfluous. In order to accelerate the spread of the new system, the Australian company has gradually reduced production of the older models.
The FCS II system consists of three components; a lightweight perforated plastic part, a high-density foam housing for stability and a titanium rod with a rotating fastening mechanism. The latter is responsible for securing the fin in the plug. The system allows the fins to be changed quickly without a fin key. However, many surfers report losing fins. Which is why they are often additionally secured with screws. However, a tool has been developed by an external supplier to make it easier to remove the fins, as fins were repeatedly getting stuck in the plug. FCS II fins are only available from FCS itself due to patent protection. Older FCS fins can still be used with an optional adapter (FCS II compatibility kit). As with the predecessor systems, there is a risk of torsion. In addition, the constant clicking when attaching and removing the fins can exert additional pressure on the plug, causing it to loosen or even break out. The manufacturer has also adjusted the cant angles, which are now available in 0° (transparent), 3° (yellow), 5° (gray) and 9° (orange).
To insert an FCS II fin, the front notch on the fin tab is inserted into the groove of the plug. Then press the rear part into the plug with gentle pressure until the fin snaps into place. To release the fin, gently pull it vertically upwards from the board. Both are only recommended with a soft surface so as not to damage your board and a towel to protect your hands. This is because a lot of force is often required when changing the fin. For additional safety, one or two screws can be screwed into the existing threads of the plug to prevent the fin from accidentally falling out.
Find out more about the FCS Fusion Plug in the following video:
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More InformationFuture Fins
The Future Fins system is a single-tab system (also known as a full-tab system). This is because the complete fin is inserted into the fin box. On the one hand, this creates a particularly strong connection with the board, which comes closest to the surfing feeling of glass-on fins. In addition, there is less unwanted water turbulence in the hydrodynamic aspects, which provides more drive and speed. The Future fin plug is very stable and resistant to torsion, which means that they break out less often than other systems. If the fin plug does break out, the repair is usually more expensive as more foam is often torn out of the board. The pronounced robustness of the fin system makes it particularly suitable for twinnies, as twin fins have more surface area and therefore put more pressure on the fin plug when performing maneuvers. With this system, the surfing feeling can be determined by the surfer himself, as the cant is not built into the plug.
The notch at the end of the fin base is inserted into the groove of the fin box. The fin is then pressed fully into the plug and secured with a screw at the front of the base using an angled thread that holds it securely in the box.
'Snap In' Captain Fin
Captain Fin hat 2023 das “Snap-In”-Finnensystem eingeführt, das als revolutionär beworben wird. Es ist etwa 50 % leichter als konkurrierende Systeme und ermöglicht ebenso wie FCS II das werkzeuglose Wechseln der Finnen. Die Befestigung erfolgt durch einen Federmechanismus, der die Finne im Plug hält. Das System wurde in verschiedenen anspruchsvollen Bedingungen getestet (von Waimea Bay bis Teahupoo). Dennoch ist die aktuelle Finnenauswahl bei dem jungen System noch limitiert. Um den Markteintritt zu erleichtern, gibt es jedoch attraktive Angebote. Ob “Snap-In” auf globaler Ebene sicherer ist als das konkurrierender FCS 2 System wird sich in Zukunft zeigen.
Both fin tabs are pushed into the openings of the plug until you hear it click into place. If desired, the fins can also be secured with one or two screws. This means that fins based on the Dual-Tab are also compatible with the Captain Fin system.
Found out more about the fin system for Captain Fin in the following video:
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More InformationLongboard fin box
Longboard fin boxes are available from various manufacturers, usually known as US boxes or rail boxes. Their advantage lies in the variable positioning of the fin within the rail, which can influence the surfing behavior. Another advantage is the increased stability, which is necessary due to the increased area of single fins. As the name suggests, the fin box is mainly used in longboards, but also in duos, bonzers, single fins and 2 + 1s. Due to the big difference in the length of these boards, the fin box is available in different lengths.
With the CONNECT fins for longboards, FCS also offers a tool-free alternative that is compatible with all channel boxes. Here, an integrated mechanism locks into the fin in the box so that, according to the manufacturer, no additional screw is required. However, the longboard version of FCS 2 has no additional securing option, which can also potentially lead to the fin being lost. Is this system too delicate for you? Then you need a regular single fin, a screw and a square washer. This is inserted into the rail of the fin box and pushed into the desired position. The fin is then inserted into the box with its pin on the base and pushed over the rail of the box until the thread of the fin is vertically above the counter plate. This allows the fin to be screwed in place. Finns that are attached to the center of the board have no tilt angle. Or a cant of 0°! They are therefore at a right angle to the board.
To give you a better idea of the advantages and disadvantages of all fin systems, we have summarized them for you in the following table.
| Fin System | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| FCS I / dual-tab | · large selection of fins from third-party suppliers · minimal and stable plug for smaller fins like sidebites & stabilizers· FCS-1 fins compatible with FCS Fusion & FCS II plugs · Cant control lies with the shaper, which prevents beginners from being overwhelmed when choosing a fin set · easy insertion and removal of the fins |
· FCS no longer manufactures fins for the Dual Tab system · surfer has less influence on the surf feeling as the cant is integrated in the plug · plugs can break out due to torsion if two plugs are used per fin· less stable as not covered with resin · if the plug twists slightly, fins with two tabs are more difficult to attach and remove |
| FCS Fusion / dual-tab | · more stable than FCS I · large selection of fins from third-party suppliers · as the shaper sets the cant, beginners no longer have the challenge of choosing a suitable fin set themselves · easy to attach and remove the fins |
· surfer has less influence on the surfing feeling as the cant is integrated in the plug · danger of torsion · FCS no longer manufactures fins for the dual tab system · plug can loosen during radical surfing due to torsion |
| FCS II | · quick change of fins without screws · compatibility with older fins from FCS · thread for screws available for additional protection · beginners don't have to worry about choosing the tilt angle · large selection depending on the fin set-up |
· fin box can loosen, as additional pressure is created when clicking the fin in and out · it is often advisable to change the fins with a towel to avoid injuries · changing fins sometimes only possible with a lot of force · risk of losing fins without an additional screw · preset cant: the surfer has less control over how the board feels in the water · fin plugs and fins are produced in China · fin plugs could break out of the board in the long term or after heavy use should always be attached and removed carefully to reduce additional pressure · less stable than fusion plugs |
| Future Fins / single-tab | · plug and fins produced in Huntington Beach, California · very stable, as the complete base is fixed in the plug · large selection of fins (Future Fins + third-party suppliers) · less risk of torsion · comes closest to the surfing feeling of glass-on fins · less unwanted water turbulence is created · optimal system for twin fins (stability) |
· must sometimes be removed carefully, especially with keel fins, otherwise there is a risk of a ding if the end of the fin base hits the lamination of the board · fins sometimes jam a little when removing · only compatible with own system (full tab system) |
| 'Snap In' / dual-tab | · dual-tab fins are compatible with the snap-in plug · 'Snap-In' fins are compatible with all dual-tab systems · very light plug · fins can be attached and removed without tools |
· previously limited fin selection with snap-in technology · surfer has less influence on the surfing feeling as the cant is integrated in the plug · not yet tested on a large scale · no experience reports on whether the fins actually hold without an additional screw |
| Bahne box (longboard fin box) | · universal system and compatible with all longboard fins · influence on the surfer's surfing experience possible, can be influenced by changing the position of the fins in the fin box (with FCS II CONNECT fin without screw) · large selection of fins · longboard FCS II CONNECT fins can be changed quickly without screws & fin key |
· it is advisable to change the fins with a towel, otherwise there is a risk of injury (FCS II) · FCS II CONNECT fins can get lost as they cannot be secured with an additional screw · very difficult to change CONNECT fins in the water · less choice of fins with key-less system due to patented fin system of FCS II |
There are advantages and disadvantages to each fin system and they all have similar fin construction technologies and fin templates! However, the main difference between the fin systems is the cant. Future-Fins lets the surfer choose the angle of inclination, whereas with the main competitor from Australia, as well as with Captain Fin, the shaper determines the cant of the fins.
Additional information on the various fin systems from the surf scene:
On Beneath the surface with Mick Fanning, FCS’s current brand ambassador explains why he prefers fins from FCS over Future fins: a lower delayed reaction time in a 2009 test was the reason. Mick is known for feeling minimal changes to the board and fins when surfing, which he proved in the Electric Acid Surfboard Test and Stab in the Dark. Whether the test would achieve the same results today and which fins were tested is not reported. Surely very few people have as much sensitivity in surfing as the three-time world champion and would not notice the difference.
On the other hand, the first brand ambassador of FCS I and eleven-time world champion Kelly Slater has said goodbye to FCS II. According to his own statement, he surfs boards with FCS and Future. In a statement from his surfboard brand Firewire, it was announced in 2022 that in future, only Future finboxes will be used in the production of Firewire boards. The reason for this is the assumption that the design delivers more drive compared to FCS II. Lost, another surfboard manufacturer, also only uses the Californian Future plugs.
One advantage for shapers and surfboard manufacturers is certainly that the Future boxes have no cant. This means that Future’s production process requires fewer components to be stored than any FCS cant. The quality feature “Made in Huntington Beach, CA” may also be better received by potential buyers than the Chinese-made plug from the Australian competitor.
FCS often claim that the FCS II fin plug is the best, which has been shown by professional athletes in the World Surf League; most athletes surf with FCS II fins. It may be that most people use FCS II fins, but for the autonomous consumer it is different. They don’t get a lot of new boards for every tour, but usually have to pay for their boards themselves. However, it would be interesting to know whether professional surfers trust the click system with the FCS II system or whether they additionally secure the fins. After all, pro surfers can’t afford to lose a fin in the heat. That’s what happened to Filipe Toledo at the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro! In the eighth final of his last wave, his board collided with the cameraman’s camera. The impact caused two fins to detach from his quad set-up. You can watch the collision in the video underneath.
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More InformationIn addition to the manufacturers of longbard fin boxes, FCS and Future Fins have already established themselves on the market. The market share of the main competitors is estimated to be the same, but may vary slightly from year to year. It remains to be seen whether Captain Fin will be able to compete with the two big players on the market with its snap-in system – Surfology will keep you up to date!
Which fin system is best for you ultimately depends on your preferences and tastes. Here are a few decision criteria to help you decide whether to buy or switch to a fin.
What do I need to consider before deciding on a fin system?
The choice of a fin system should be well thought out. The later you switch to a different system, the more expensive it can be. Before you decide on a fin system, you should consider the following aspects:
- your surfing style: how aggressive is your surf? Do you need a lot of stability in the plugs to perform radical maneuvers or is the risk of torsion no big deal for you?
- sustainability: How long will the board be surfed? Should the stability of the fin plugs be as long-lasting as possible or is it a used board as a temporary solution?
- repairs to fin dings: FCS fins can break out of the plug under lower loads, but are usually easier or less expensive to repair! Is there a professional fin repair at your surf spot or surf vacation or do you repair it yourself?
- fin selection: Do you prefer to surf twinnies, thrusters or quads? Check if you have a satisfactory selection of fins (including third-party providers)!
- compatibility: Do you want your fins to be compatible with as many (already purchased) fins as possible or are you considering switching?
- your own performance level: As an experienced surfer, you need a system that offers good performance, whereas as a beginner, you shouldn’t worry too much about it.
- budget: Compare the prices of fins from different manufacturers. This will give you an initial idea of how expensive it is to buy a new fin set or change a fin system.
- test different fin systems: borrow boards with different systems! This is the best way to feel to what extent the respective system affects your surfing experience and which one is best suited.
- availability: Which fins for the respective fin system are available locally and at your destination? Without being dependent on shipping times! Or do you go on your surf trips with all your fins?
If you consider these aspects, you will find the most suitable fin system for you!
What should I be aware of when changing and attaching fins?
Is it worth changing a fin system?
It may be worth switching to a different fin system because the different fastening mechanisms influence the stability of the fins. This has a direct effect on the surfing feeling. The selection of compatible fins also varies depending on the manufacturer. There are many surfers who switched from FCS to Future Fins or vice versa. However, it is not worth changing the fin system on surfboards that you have already purchased. Because then the original stability is not there. Apart from the additional costs. It is therefore advisable to change the fin system gradually, which is easier on the wallet – especially the bigger your quiver.
The best fin system – conclusion
This question cannot be answered in general, but depends on your own preferences, as aspects such as your own surfing style, surfing level and available budget are also important when making your selection.
If you want a screwless system and don’t mind losing a fin, FCS II or even ‘Snap In’ is ideal. Although there is a limited selection of snap-in fins, the system is compatible with FCS I fins. FCS I is only available as a stable solution for smaller fins. The increased stability of Future Fins plugs is particularly advantageous for Twin fins, as the fins have more surface area, which provides more area for pressure, which, among other things, occurs when performing turns. Future also has the lowest risk of torsion of all fin systems. Do you actually like glass-on fins, but traveling with glass-on fins isn’t very practical? Then Future Fins are the right alternative.
Before deciding on a system, check the selection of different fin manufacturers that are compatible with your preferred system. It is also possible to have several fin systems in your quiver: For example, Future Fins on your Twinny and FCS II on your Thrusters. A test before making a decision can be worthwhile! Once you have made your decision, you should treat your fin system well, because the best fin system is ultimately the one that lasts the longest and suits your preferences.
