We are currently in the process of writing the set up and tuning guides for the highly anticipated launch the of the new [FLX] wave fins. Those who keep an eye on the Black Project social media channels will have seen some new fins being used by the team. Working closely with Morgan Noireaux (JP / Hot Sails Maui / Black Project) we wanted to extend the tuning options available for riders of multi-fin boards especially for quad and thruster riders. We were also aware that while the added drive that G10 gives the riders, allowing them to use smaller fins, some riders, often smaller riders under 75kg benefit from more twist and hence we wanted to experiment with materials and see if we could enhance the feeling on the wave for these riders. The result is the new MiniEPIC [FLX] and Thruster [FLX] editions which are more flexible versions of our very popular wave foils.

These new fins have opened up a whole new degree of tuning options with the mix and max capabilities enabling riders to further fine tune their boards and their on water experience. We have been testing the following options;

• [FLX] front and rear
• G10 front with [FLX] rear
• [FLX] front with G10 rear (as shown above on custom Quatro quad) 
• G10 front and rear
• (Yes, asymmetric options are possible) 

While we will be publishing more information about the new fins and full tuning guides today I wanted to comment upon the set up I was using in my last sessions with Thruster [FLX] front and MiniEPIC Black Ed. (G10) rears. Being more flexible the [FLX] does not give as much drive as the G10 counterparts but the added flex does enhance the feel under foot. So by keeping G10 at the back (the new Black Ed. MiniEpics are shown in the image) you keep the drive under the back foot with a little more pivot because you do not have quite so much drive from the front fins. Everything is very subtle, we are not talking about massive differences. While I used these fins in head to mast high waves this set up would probably be better in smaller waves.

[FLX] Weight reductions – the [FLX] material is lighter which makes a difference when you have multi-finned boards. On average the weight saving over the G10 versions is about 19-20% which is up to 100 grams lighter per quad set, not massive but as I said earlier in the post we are talking about small and subtle differences and fine tuning.

We will be releasing more information about the new line soon; check the blog and social media for updates. Dealers around the world are starting to place their orders for these new products and we hope to have them available in our online store for the beginning of April however pre-orders can be placed with your local dealer or direct with us.

More to follow…