General
fins
What does fins mean?
The fin or fins fixed to the underside of a surfboard near the tail, providing directional stability, hold and drive through turns.
"He slid the fins free at the top of the wave for a stylish snap."
Origin
Surfboard component; fins added to boards from the mid-20th century revolutionized control.
Frequently asked questions
What do fins do on a surfboard?
They provide directional stability, hold and drive through turns, fixed to the underside near the tail.
How many fins does a surfboard have?
It varies — boards run single fins, twins, thrusters (three), quads (four) and more — each setup changing how the board holds and drives.
What does it mean to slide the fins free?
It means breaking the fins' grip loose at the top of a wave to slide the tail out, a stylish maneuver in a snap or turn.
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