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Windsurfing fins

Windsurfing fins are like the dagger boards used on sailing vessels. The biggest difference is that a windsurfing board’s fins are not retractable the way a dagger board is. The configuration for the fins can be changed by adding and removing fins from the board. This is done to adjust for different wind conditions.

For instance, if your windsurfing fins are too large for the conditions, you will notice that your control is reduced. This is because the fins are generating too much lift for the wind, making your board ride too high and reducing maneuverability. The solution to this is to have smaller fins to swap out for low wind days.

If your windsurfing fins are too small for the conditions, you will be unable to steer your board upwind. You’ll notice that when you’re steering even at an angle to the wind, your tail will tend to drift or skid sideways, rather than holding its course. This can be fixed by adding larger fins.

One thing that can be done to improve handling in most conditions is to add additional windsurfing fins to your board. Boards will usually allow anywhere from one to five fins. If you use an even number (two or four) they should be spaced equally on both sides of your center line. Put the largest fin in the middle (or use two equally sized fins for a setup of two or four) and place smaller fins to the sides. It’s important that the fins be smaller, but not more than a few centimeters smaller, to the outside. This will improve the board’s handling in most conditions, especially when the wind picks up.

 

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