Do Kitesurfing Fins Matter?

Kitesurfing fins come in a variety of sizes, from 10mm to 50mm or so. Fins are an often-overlooked part of gear, but they can make a huge difference in how your kiteboard responds and how it feels on the water.

Small fins: 10 to 15mm

These are less common now, but are arguably the most fun fins available. They loosen up the board and make for a skate feel on the water. Imagine your kiteboard feeling more like a snowboard. You can really add some style to your riding, especially on your landings!

Small fins have been my choice for as long as I can remember but they do have some tradeoffs. For one, they make riding upwind harder for new riders. If you are experienced this won't make much of a difference. They also give you less resistance when loading up to pop a freestyle trick or send a big air trick. This will impact you no matter your level; it's simple physics.

My riding has always gravitated towards freestyle and stylish freeride tricks over big air, so this has never been a concern for me. If getting maximum air is important to you, the tradeoff might not be worth it.

Medium kitesurfing fins: 20 to 35mm

These are a great in-between fit. The board will feel more locked in and ride upwind easily. It makes for a track-like feel on the water, so don't expect these to be more playful. If you want to get the best of both worlds, 30mm would be a good option between playful and efficient.

Big fins: 40mm +

40mm is the standard for many boards and a great place to start out. If you are new to kitesurfing, these are the ticket. They make riding upwind easy and give you a ton of leverage when loading up for a jump. These are used by big air riders as well because they are effective. They are the least playful, so don't expect to do soul carves or tap into that snowboarding or wakeboarding-like feel on the water.

Finless!

I'd recommend starting off with fins like this and then start experimenting with smaller sizes. If you want a challenge and to progress faster you can even ride finless for a few months. This will teach you a ton about how to use your edge effectively. When you cross back over to any fins you'll be launching out of the water and riding upwind better than you ever imagined.

Ryan (Rygo) Goloversic

Many people dream of quitting their job, traveling the world and pursuing their passions. Rygo is one of those people who pulled the trigger. A few years into his career, he decided to change everything and travel as a kiteboarder, freelance videographer & writer. His mission is to share the stoke & help people put the boarding into their kiteboarding. Get outside and kite!

#Instagram

Producer of: Ride with Blake I Sessions I Versus I Destinations I Foil Fridays