We caught up with Brad Rochfort from FCS to talk all things fins, and how they can transform your surfing.
From speed and drive to looseness and control, the right setup can help you get more out of every wave – especially during summer.
Yes. Fins are a major performance factor, generating drive and speed. Many surfers don’t realise they can make up around 30% of a board’s performance, so matching fins to ability and board type is important.
All-round fins (like Performer-style templates) work in most conditions. In smaller, weaker waves, more upright fins with a larger base (like Reactor types) help with quicker acceleration and tighter turns. In bigger surf, more raked “carver” fins offer better control and hold.
Softer materials like fibreglass/neo glass are more forgiving and suit most surfers. Stiffer materials like carbon give more snap and response but generally suit stronger, more experienced surfers who can fully load the fins.
Yes. Surfers are much more open to experimenting than before, with many now owning multiple fin sets and swapping between them depending on board type and wave conditions. Instead of sticking to one “default” setup, it’s now common to fine-tune fins for specific sessions, boards, and styles of surfing.
It depends on preference and surf style, but the thruster (three-fin setup) remains the most versatile and widely used option, offering a balance of drive, control, and manoeuvrability in inconsistent UK conditions. The twin fin is also very popular in summer, especially in smaller, softer waves where surfers want more speed and a looser, more playful feel.
Small change BIG difference
Choosing the right fins can fine-tune your surfing and unlock more speed.
FCS II Thomas Longboard Fin (Thomas Bexon signature)
Inspired by classic Australian longboards of the mid-60s, this single fin balances release and drive for turns with plenty of hold for nose rides. It has a slight tip flex without feeling doughy, making it a versatile, user-friendly option for traditional logging.
RRP: £99.95
FCS II Christenson Longboard
A well-balanced longboard fin with moderate area through the middle, and a narrow, tapered tip for greater turning capacity, with lower sweep lending itself to smooth arcs, cutbacks, and effortless down-the-line speed. Works well in 7.5” to 8.5" mid-lengths, or 9” to 9.5" for everyday logs.
RRP: £87.95
FCS II Carissa Moore (Tri Fin Set)
Designed in collaboration with Carissa Moore for female surfers, this all-round fin set blends elements from the Performer and Accelerator templates to feel fast, stable, and loose. The slightly larger side fins deliver bottom turn control, while the smaller centre fin makes snaps and cutbacks easy – built for everyday beach break conditions.
RRP: £83.96
FCS II Performer (Tri Fin)
Designed for a balance of speed, flow and response, this reliable all-round fin set with Inside Foil Technology suits a wide variety of surfers and conditions. It works across all board types from beach breaks to point breaks, making it the go-to ‘do everything’ fin.
RRP: £104.95
FCS II Yago Dora (Tri Fin Set)
The Yago Dora signature fins blend the proven Carver template with a unique centre fin configuration refined during Yago's world title campaign, delivering exceptional hold with smooth, controlled release through the lip. It's built for surfers who drive hard off the bottom and carve with intent, offering maximum power with just enough tail freedom off the top.
RRP: £124.95
