Fin systems – it’s all about FCS vs. Future Fins! Yes and no; sure, these are the two biggest manufacturers of fins and fin systems, but there are definitely other relevant systems for shortboard chargers and log lovers alike. Find out which ones they are and which fin system is right for you in this article.
- The Future Fins offers maximum stability, while FCS II and ‘Snap-In’ enable a tool-free removable fin system.
- Often tool-less fin systems are not completely tool-less in practice.
- The best fin system is the one that suits your own preferences. For example, choose fins for your preferred fin setup or experiment with the cant of the fins to find the surfing feel that suits you best.
What is a fin system?
A fin system is the mechanism that lets you attach and change the fins on your surfboard. Depending on your fin setup, it includes one or more plugs or fin boxes. The fin setup refers to how many fins your board has and how they’re arranged on the bottom near the tail.
Without a fin system – and the right fins – you’ll have a lot less control over your board. Maneuvers become harder, and your board can feel unstable. Unless you’re going for a fin-free style, fins are essential — they work like the steering wheel.
The type of fin system you choose influences how secure the fins sit, how easy they are to swap out, and what fin options are available to you. Not every fin fits every system, so it’s worth knowing what you’re using before upgrading or customizing your setup.
What fin systems are there?
If your surfboard does not have glass-on fins, the following fin systems are available:
- Single tab system
- Dual tab system
- FCS Fusion
- FCS II Fin System
- FCS II Longboard Fin
- Longboard fin box
- Captain Fin ‘Snap-In’
Basically, fin systems for surfboards are divided into single and dual tab systems. “Single’ and “dual” describe how many tabs are needed to attach a fin to the board using screws. The single tab comes from Future Fins and the dual tab from Australian fin manufacturer FCS. The first version of FCS and the Fusion system are based on the dual tab system.
Even though FCS II fins and ‘snap-in’ fins have two tabs, they belong to the click system (also known as the plug-in system) of fin systems. Click systems do not require the fin to be attached to the surfboard with screws. However, it is possible to secure the fin to the plug with an additional fastener. This is not possible with FCS II longboard fins, as the fin box does not have a thread that allows for additional screwing.
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 relevant 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 removable fin system “FCS I” was developed in 1992 by Australian Brian A. Whitty. It made it easy for surfers to swap out fins, opening up a whole new world of possibilities. This innovation made it much easier to experiment with different materials and templates, which had a big impact on performance surfing.
When using two plugs per fin, strong pressure – like during aggressive turns – can cause torsion (over-turning or over-stretching), which may damage both the fin box and the board’s foam core. That’s why the original FCS system is mainly used today for smaller fins, like sidebites, trailer fins (also called stabilizers), or the outer fins on twinzers and singzers.
The cant (the built-in angle of the fin) is fixed in the plug and can’t be adjusted by changing fins.
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
In 2012, FCS launched an optimized system—the FCS Fusion Plug. The two individual plugs of its predecessor were combined into a more stable, figure-eight-shaped plug and coated with resin for the first time. The Fusion Plug is additionally reinforced with a high-density foam insert, which significantly increases its stability.
The Fusion plug was also based on the dual-tab system and is compatible with FCS 1 fins. It was primarily designed for EPS / epoxy boards, but it can also be used in PU / polyester (poly) boards. Just like its predecessor, the fin’s cant angle is built into the plug and can’t be adjusted.
Although the Fusion plug offers improved stability, there’s still a risk of torsion under heavy pressure, which can eventually lead to cracks or the plug breaking loose. Since the system is no longer patented, a wide range of third-party fins is available at affordable prices.
With the FCS Fusion system, fins are secured in the plug the same way — by screwing them in through the tabs.
Find out more about FCS Fusion in the following video:
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More InformationFCS II
Find out more about the FCS Fusion Plug in the following video:
The fin is held in place by a titanium rod surrounded by a rotating mechanism that locks the fin into the plug. This system allows for quick fin changes without the need for a fin key. Older FCS fins can still be used with an optional adapter (called an InFill kit), which also helps reduce water turbulence.
As with previous systems, there’s still a risk of torsion. Additionally, the constant clicking when inserting or removing fins can put extra stress on the plug, which may cause it to loosen or even break over time. It appears that FCS hasn’t fully succeeded in securing a lasting patent on the system, although so far, only a few third-party brands produce fins for it.
To install an FCS II fin into the matching plug, you insert the front notch on the fin tab into the groove, then press the base firmly down into the plug until it clicks into place.
It’s best to change fins on a soft surface to avoid damaging your board — and using a towel to protect your hands is also a good idea, since swapping fins can require quite a bit of force. The plugs also include two screw holes to offer extra security by allowing the fin to be additionally screwed in. There is the chance of loosing fins.
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More InformationFuture Fins
In the 1990s, Vince Longo discovered the FCS I system during a surf trip in Indonesia and saw its potential for improvement. Back in California, he founded Future Fins together with his brother Anthony. In 1997, they were granted a patent for their newly developed fin system.
Today, Vince Longo runs Future Fins on his own, after the brothers went their separate ways due to a disagreement.
The system from Future Fins is a single-tab system (also called a full-tab system), where the entire fin is inserted into the fin box. This creates an especially strong connection to the board, offering a feel closest to traditional glass-on fins.
The attachment mechanism reduces unwanted water turbulence, which provides more drive and speed. Thanks to its solid stability and high resistance to torsion, this fin system is particularly well-suited for twinnies. Twin fins have a larger surface area and need to withstand more pressure — for example, during maneuvers.
With this system, surfers can adjust their ride feel because the cant (the fin’s tilt) isn’t built into the plug.
To attach the fin, the notch at the end of the fin base is inserted into the groove facing toward the tail inside the fin box. Then the fin is pushed fully into the plug and secured with a screw on the front of the base through an angled thread.
'Snap-In' Captain Fin
In 2023, Captain Fin introduced the ‘Snap-In’ fin system, which is being promoted as revolutionary. It’s about 50% lighter than competing systems and, like FCS II, allows tool-free fin changes. The fins are held in place by a spring mechanism inside the plug.
The system has been tested in various demanding conditions — from Waimea Bay to Teahupoo. Whether the ‘Snap-In’ system is globally safer than the competing FCS II system remains to be seen. Currently, Captain Fin is undergoing a relaunch, and it’s unclear if the fin system will remain available after the rebranding. This article will be updated with any news.
Both fin tabs are inserted into the plug openings until they click audibly into place. If desired, the fins can also be secured with one or two screws.
The dual-tab ‘Snap-In’ fins are compatible with FCS I and FCS Fusion. Other dual-tab fins from FCS I or third-party brands can also be used with Captain Fin’s system – just without the tool-free installation feature.
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 made by various manufacturers and are commonly known as US boxes or bahne boxes. Their main advantage is the ability to adjust the position of the fin within the track, allowing surfers to fine-tune how the board rides.
This type of fin box is mostly used in boards that require larger fins, such as duos, Bonzers, single fins, and 2+1 setups. Since these boards can vary greatly in length (roughly 6 to 12 feet), the boxes are also available in different sizes.
FCS II longboard fin
FCS II longboard fins offer a tool-free alternative that’s compatible with all standard channel boxes. They’re attached in the same way as FCS II shortboard fins, but in this case, the locking mechanism is built into the fin itself — not the plug.
However, there’s no option to secure the fin with an additional screw, which can increase the risk of losing a fin under heavy use.
Traditional Single Fins
Traditional single fins have a drilled hole in the base. A screw is inserted through the hole and fastened with a metal plate (washer), providing the necessary hold.
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.
An overview of the different fin systems
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Fin system
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Boards and fin setups
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Advantages
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Disadvantages
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FCS I (dual tab)
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Outer fins of twinzers and singzers and other smaller fins like sidebites and stabilizers. Still seen on many old-school surfboards with all types of setups.
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Wide variety of fins available from third-party brands and the minimal, stable plug design — ideal for smaller fins like sidebites & stabilizers. FCS 1 fins are compatible with FCS Fusion & FCS II plugs. Cant angle is determined by the shaper, which can help beginners avoid feeling overwhelmed when choosing a fin setup. It is easy to insert and remove fins.
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FCS no longer produces fins for the dual-tab system. There is less control over board feel, since the cant angle is built into the plug. Great risk for torsion, especially when two plugs are used per fin. Less durable, as they’re not reinforced with resin. Also, if the plug is slightly twisted, dual-tab fins can be harder to insert and remove.
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FCS Fusion (dual tab)
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Mostly seen on older boards, as this plug system has been replaced by the FCS II fin system. Can be found in quads, thrusters, and twins, but also used for stabilizers or sidebites when no FCS 1 plug was installed.
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Less control over board feel, as the cant angle is built into the plug. FCS no longer produces fins for the dual-tab system and under radical surfing, torsion can cause the plug to loosen
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FSC II (click-system)
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Mostly seen on newer boards. Can be used in quads, thrusters, and twins; occasionally also as stabilizers or sidebites.
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Quick fin changes without screws and compatible with older FCS fins. Screw threads available for extra security. Beginners don’t need to worry about choosing the cant angle. Wide variety available depending on the fin setup.
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Fin box can loosen over time, as clicking fins in and out puts extra pressure on the plug. Using a towel when changing fins is recommended to avoid injury. Changing fins can sometimes require a lot of force. Risk of losing fins without additional screw for security. Fixed cant angle: surfer has less control over how the board feels in the water. Fin plugs and fins are manufactured in China. Less durable than the Fusion plug. Yet not great fin choice from third party brands.
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Future Fins (single tab)
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Mostly found on newer board and commonly used in twin fin setups but are also used in quads, thrusters, and twins, as well as stabilizers or sidebites.
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Plug and fins are produced in Huntington Beach, California. Very strong connection, as the entire base is secured in the plug. Wide range of fins available (Future Fins + third-party brands). Lower risk of torsion and great stability (ideal system for twin fins). Closest feel to glass-on fins with less unwanted water turbulence.
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Should sometimes be removed carefully — especially with keel fins — to avoid damage if the end of the fin base hits the board’s lamination. Fins can occasionally stick when being removed (mainly third-party brands). Only compatible with its own system (full-tab system)
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Captain Fin 'Snap-In' (dual tab)
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So far, rarely used on surfboards. Can be installed in quads, thrusters, and twins, as well as stabilizers or sidebites.
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Dual-tab fins are compatible with the ‘Snap-In’ plug and ‘Snap-In’ fins are compatible with all dual-tab systems. Very lightweight plug with a tool-free fin installation and removal possible.
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Currently limited fin selection with ‘Snap-In’ technology. Less control over board feel, as the cant angle is built into the plug and not yet widely tested in real-world use. No user reports yet on whether fins hold securely without additional screws.
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Longboard fin box
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Used on single-fin boards as well as in 2 + 1 fin setups but also used on bonzers and duos and singzers.
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Universal system compatible with all longboard fins. Surfer can influence the ride by adjusting fin position within the fin box (possible with FCS II CONNECT fins without screws). Huge selection of fins available. Quick fin changes with FCS II CONNECT longboard fins, no screws or fin key needed.
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Using a towel during fin changes is recommended to avoid injuries (FCS II). FCS II CONNECT fins can be lost since they cannot be secured with an additional screw. Changing CONNECT fins in the water is very difficult, as FCS markets it as easy. Limited fin selection with FCS II longboard fins.
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What do I need to consider before deciding on a fin system?
Choosing a fin system should be a well-thought-out decision. The later you switch to a different system, the more expensive it can get. Because you can’t just change the fin system – you need to buy new boards with your preferred system. Before committing to a fin system, keep these factors in mind:
- Your surfing style: How aggressive is your surfing? Do you need lots of stability in the plugs for performing radical maneuvers?
- Durability: How long do you plan to use the board? Should the fin plugs be as durable as possible for the long term, or is it a used board meant as a temporary solution?
- Repairs for fin dings: FCS fins are more likely to break out of the plug under moderate stress, but they’re usually easier and less expensive to repair. Futures fins are more durable, but if they break, repairs can be more complex. Is there a ding repair shop near your surf spot or on your trip? Or would you handle repairs yourself?
- Fin selection: Do you mainly surf twin fins, thrusters, or quads? Check whether there’s a satisfactory selection of fins available for your setup – including third-party options.
- Compatibility: Do you value being able to use your fins across different fin systems for more flexibility or choice?
- Your skill level: As an experienced surfer, you may want a system that delivers top performance. If you are a beginner, you don’t need to overthink it too much.
- Budget: Compare fin prices from different manufacturers. This will give you an idea of how expensive it is to buy a new fin set or switching to a different fin system.
- Test different fin systems: Rent or borrow boards with different fin setups! This way, you can really feel how each system affects your surfing and find the one that suits you best.
- Availability: Are fins for your chosen system available locally or at your destination, without having to rely on shipping? Or do you travel with your full fin quiver anyway?
FCS and Futures are the two biggest fin system manufacturers and have been competing for market share for decades. In the past, FCS had a slight edge, but the industry now considers Futures to have caught up strongly and currently holds the largest market share.
If you keep these points in mind, you’ll find the fin system that’s best for you!
Which fin system is the best for me?
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Criteria
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Key question
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Recommendation
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surf style
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How radical is your surfing?
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If your surf style isn’t particularly aggressive, there’s no clear favorite here— even pro surfers ride fins from both brands. However, Futures Fins plugs can handle more pressure. If you're planning to ride longboards, you’ll need a dedicated fin box for longboard fins.
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Durability
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How long do you plan to use the board?
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If you're looking for long-term performance and reliability, Future Fins are a solid choice. If the risk of torsion isn’t a major concern, FCS II can also be a good option. But if you switch your fins frequently, FCS II might not be ideal due to the added pressure on the plug during fin changes.
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Repair-Friendliness
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How complicated is a repair in case of a fin ding?
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A Future Fins plug is less likely to break out, but if it does, it usually causes more damage to the foam. FCS II plugs tend to break out more often, but repairs are generally easier and less time-consuming by comparison.
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Fin Selection
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Is there a wide enough selection of fins for the setups you surf?
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For FCS II, there are currently very few third-party fin options—you’ll mostly need to buy directly from FCS. With Dual-Tab fins, it’s much easier to find compatible sets from other brands. The same goes for Single-Tab fins.
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Compatibility
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Do you want your fins to be compatible with as many fin systems as possible?
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Future Fins uses its own dedicated system. If you're looking for maximum compatibility, FCS and ‘Snap-In’ systems are your best bet—any Dual-Tab fins fit into all FCS systems, from FCS I (requires two plugs) to FCS II and Snap-In. Snap-In fins also work in FCS Fusion and FCS II plugs. However, FCS II fins do not fit into any other fin plug system. Single fins are compatible with all longboard fin boxes.
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Skill level
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Are you an advanced surfer or just getting started?
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If you’ve just started surfing or only surf occasionally on vacation, you don’t need to overthink it. The more advanced your surfing becomes, the more it makes sense to dive deeper into the topic.
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Budget
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How much are you looking to spend on a fin setup?
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Futures Fins and FCS II are similarly priced, but Futures offers more budget-friendly entry-level models. Captain Fin products are generally more affordable. If you’re not looking for anything too fancy, third-party fins can be a cost-effective alternative.
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Testability
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Do you have the opportunity to try out different fin systems and fin templates?
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Many surf shops or surf schools offer the chance to rent boards with various fin systems and templates. This allows you to base your decision on personal experience and find the system that works best for you.
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Availability
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How easily can you find suitable fins locally?
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Globally, FCS II and Future Fins are the two most established fin systems. However, which shop offers the best selection of fins can vary by region.
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If you use these criteria as a guide, you will find the best and most suitable fin system for you. Although every system has its advantages and disadvantages, the best system is the one that best meets your own preferences.
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
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question—it really depends on your personal preferences and surfing ability. If you want flexibility when switching fins, a screwless system is ideal. For long-term durability, Future Fins are a smart choice—especially for twin fins. They’re also the best alternative if you want that “glass-on” feeling while still keeping the option to swap fins.
It’s not common, but it’s totally possible to mix fin systems in your quiver—using Future Fins for your twins and FCS II or Dual-Tab for your thruster, for example.
Trying before buying is always a good idea! Many surf shops will credit the rental fee toward the purchase if you end up buying the board. That way, you can save money—which you could then put toward an extra fin set.
