A comprehensive guide to navigating the Futures fin range using the Ride Number System and template classifications
The Futures Fin range is classified primarily using the Ride Number System - a numerical classification from 1 to 10 to rate fins based on their performance characteristics:
Ride Number 1ā3 (Speed Control)
These fins are stiff and provide control, making them suitable for powerful waves where stability is crucial.
Ride Number 4ā6 (Balanced)
This range represents balanced fins, offering a mix of control and manoeuvrability. They are versatile and work well across different conditions.
Ride Number 7ā10 (Speed Generating)
These are flexible and lively fins, ideal for smaller or mushier waves, emphasising speed and responsiveness.
Beyond ride number there are a range of fin templates, similar to FCS the main variable here tends to be the rake of the fin.
Rake Templates
These have more rake and base, suited for carving and control in powerful waves.
Pivot Template
These fins are more upright, enabling quick turns and tighter maneuvers, ideal for high-performance surfing in small to medium waves.
Neutral Template
A balanced template somewhere in between the rake and pivot for every day conditions.
The table below shows how these characteristics combine and gives example fins you can find in the library:
| Speed Control (Ride Number 1-3) |
Balanced (Ride Number 4-6) |
Speed Generating (Ride Number 7-10) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Rake (Carving & Control) |
|||
| Neutral (Balanced) |
|||
| Pivot (Quick Turns) |
ā |
Materials
Futures designs fins with varied materials like carbon fiber, fiberglass, and their Alpha series made from recycled materials. The choice of material impacts flex, weight, and responsiveness. Additionally, templates focus on rake (swept-back fins for drawn-out turns), upright designs (for snappier, tighter manoeuvres), and hybrids.
Futures categorizes fins by material, which influences performance characteristics:
Alpha Series
Eco-friendly fins made from recycled fishing nets.
Techflex
A blend of carbon and fiberglass for lightweight stiffness.
Honeycomb
Lightweight fins that provide a balance of control and speed.
Fiberglass
Heavier and more durable, offering solid control in powerful waves.
Carbon Fin Options
Stiffer and lighter, designed for high-performance surfing.
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