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Fins are the steering mechanism of the surfboard. The fin placement, size, shape and composition have a profound effect on the way a surfboard handles. Even small changes can make a significant difference to the discriminating surfer. The number of fins can range from 1 – 5 though the most common fin systems have either one or three.

Over the last few years, fin designs, number, shape and location have become the biggest area of surfboard exploration. With the return of the removable fins systems (whereby surfers can change fins using a screw or snap) it is easier for surfers to experiment with different fins. Besides allowing for fin experiments, removable fin systems ease travel challenges.

There are three prominent removable fin systems. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses.

FCS – If you're traveling or doing a lot of international surfing, the FCS system may be your best choice because you can find FCS fins almost anywhere. They are easily identified by their two post system which doesn't provide the stability of other box systems. The top of the surfboard may start to warp over time because the posts go all the way through to the deck.

Future – Unlike the two post system, Futures grip the entire length of the fin decreasing unusual torque.

LockBox Fin – They also grip the entire length of the fin though the fins are not as available as FCS internationally. LockBox offers a fin adapter so if you were to break a fin while traveling, you could use an FCS fin in the LockBox system. In addition, LockBox allows some movement in the box so you can change the lateral position of a fin. And in the rare event a fin breaks away, it's less likely to take the entire rail.

Glass on fins are the stiffest (because they are permanently fiberglassed to the surfboard) but they are hard to travel with and all decisions are permanent.

Longboards have traditionally been single fins, but many modern surfboards are tri-fins with a large middle fin and two small side fins. The large middle fin helps keep the surfboard from spinning out or side slipping but it will also effect the looseness during turns.

When ordering a surfboard, the most versatile setup is two side plugs for the small fins and a large box in the middle. This way you can switch around if need be to a smaller or larger middle fin with or without side fins, or switch to only a single center fin.

The placement of the fins will effect turns a lot. Moving the middle fin forward in the box will loosen up the surfboard for tighter turns in smaller surf. Moving the fin back will increase stability and perform more gradual turns. Most single fins are placed a little farther back than the middle fin on a tri-fin setup to ensure it will hold into the wave.