Single Fin vs. Twin Fin

Many analyze different surfboard ride feels based on design elements of the surfboard alone. Much time is spent thinking about types of rocker, volumes, lengths, width, and other surfboard features, while fin set ups can to be an afterthought. We at Degree 33, on the contrary, argue that the foundational element of the surfboard is the fins. Boards are made with fins in mind, and therefore we should take a good look at the differences between them in our pursuit of surf progression and unshakeable fun. 

In this guide, we will take a look at the difference between a single fin and a twin fin. We will find that the addition or subtraction of just one fin gives a remarkably different surf experience.  

Different Origins

To understand the fin, it is beneficial for us to take a quick look at their fascinating origins. Over a hundred years ago, when surfboards were basically 15ft + finless shaped trees, control was a huge issue. Imagine sliding out on a steep wave on your 150 pound board... you would have zero chance of controlling the board in the direction you intend to go. For this reason, an innovative surfer, Tom Blake, created the very first fin in 1935: The single fin. The goal of Blake's fin is the same goal of a single fin today, to offer lots of control to steer the surfboard, especially when riding bigger boards. 

The single fin was the status quo of surfboard design until some began reacting against the single fin only mindset in pursuit of a board that would mimic the speed of a finless board, but with a bit more control and a loose turning ability. Thus, a surfer down the road from us in La Jolla, CA, Bob Simmons, designed the first twin fin in 1948. They twin fin began growing in popular through the 60's and 70's until the dawn of the thruster, or tri-fin set up. Today, there is a renaissance of both single fins and twin fins as surfers are beginning to appreciate the origins of the art/sport. Next, we will get into some of the specifics as to what makes these fins feel the way they do.

Different Ride Feel 

Single and twin fins are opposites. Because of the placement of the single fin in the center at the tail of the board, single fins tend to be slower, but with little chance or sliding out one the wave face. The type of turning a single fin in suited for in a pivot turn, as opposed to carving or "snappy" turns. This makes the board well suited for trimming on longer, open face waves and for noseriding. Think of the single fin like the keel of a ship. The keel is placed in the center of the ship, holding the ballast to keep the ship upright. It also allows the ship to turn in a single direction. Control is the primary goal, not necessarily performance or quick turning. 

As for twin fins, the placement of the fins is at the rail of the board, which means there is no center fin acting as a stabilizing fin. As a result, water is able to pass through the fins and propel out quickly at the tail, making the board incredibly fast. This makes the twin fin well suited for carving maneuvers down the line instead of pivoting turns. The turning on a twin fin is also very loose. The rider doesn't need to lean very hard from rail to rail for the board to turn in the direction you like. Last, the twin fin is known to have an easy ability to slide out. Finesse is required when turning the board as the fin set up can be overpower quite quickly. 

Different Board Types 

With differing surf styles exhibited on each fin come largely different surfboards. Unless riding a unique board like a glider or long fish, big boards usually require a big single fin (bigger the board, bigger the fin for stability). For this reason, single fins are most commonly seen on longboards such as our Classic Noserider and Wedge. These boards are mostly geared toward control in trimming and noseriding. Twin fins, on the other hand, require smaller boards, such as fishes or midlengths. The fish, like our Retro Fish, is the perfect board for a twin fin; the swallow tail, wider outline, and brings out the boards tremendous speed. 

Which is the best for you?  

Because of the control of a single fin, they are undoubtably easier to ride, which makes them more suitable for newer or intermediate surfers. That being said, once you progress in surfing to the intermediate to advanced range, a twin fin is an awesome board to have in your quiver. There is nothing like flying down the line on smaller, punchy summer days and turning with ease. 

So if you are able to turn, ride smaller boards, and value speed above control, go for the twin fin. But if you are a newer surfer learning how to control the board, or if you are an advanced surfer who is drawn toward noseriding, trimming, and maintaining a slower, more paced approach on the wave, a single fin is your best bet. 

Noseride on Degree 33 Classic Noserider (Single Fin) - Photo by Shawn Parkin

Our motto at Degree 33 is "a board for every surfer." We also have the fin for every surfer! Click the link here to browse through all of our fin types. If you have any further questions, or are interested in one of our boards, email us at surf@degree33.com or call us at 800-920-2363.