Fin Box Options

The fin box (or lack of one, in the case of glass-ons) determines what fins you can use, how easily you can swap them, and how your board looks. This is a crucial choice that affects your whole surfing experience.

Modern Multiple-Fin Systems

Futures **How it works:** Fins click into a slot on the bottom of the board. Extremely easy to swap fins in seconds.

Aesthetics: Slot is visible on the bottom. Blake thinks Futures look best, especially in white.

Performance: Zero loss of performance. The connection is solid and responsive.

Cost: Mid-range add-on

Best for: Surfers who like switching between fin sizes and setups. Easy to travel with. Versatile.

Why you should care: Futures dominate the market because they're reliable, simple, and work great. No downside besides the visible slot.

FCS & FCS II **How it works:** Fin tabs slide into boxes along the rail. Different system than Futures with a different plug style.

Aesthetics: Less visible slot than Futures, but still visible on the rails.

Performance: Excellent, maybe slightly more feel than Futures depending on who you ask. Negligible difference for most surfers.

Cost: Mid-range add-on (similar to Futures)

Best for: Surfers who prefer the FCS feel or want to standardize their fin collection around FCS plugs.

Blake's personal use: He rides FCS II because of quick install and the fact he's standardized his quiver around it.

Single Fins (for Longboards & Gliders)

Long Box (~10.5") **What it is:** A single fin box designed for longer, more flexible fins.

Versatility: Accepts a wide range of fin sizes and styles. Better for experimentation and different conditions.

Best for: Most longboard and glider riders. Recommended.

Short Box (~8.5") **What it is:** A single fin box for shorter, stiffer fins.

Versatility: Limited to fins specifically made for short boxes. Less flexibility.

Best for: Only if you have a specific short-box fin you love. Not recommended as a default.

Blake's recommendation: Go long box for single-fin boards. You'll have way more options down the road.

Glass-On Fins

What it is: Fins are glassed directly onto the board with fiberglass cloth and resin. No removable fin box.

Aesthetics: Stunning. The fin is part of the board. Clean, integrated look. Can't beat it visually.

Performance: Excellent flex and feel. Some surfers swear glass-ons perform better because the fin is literally part of the board structure.

Versatility: Zero. Once glassed, you're stuck with those fins forever. You can remove them if needed, but you can't easily swap.

Cost: Usually middle-ground pricing

Best for: - Wall-hanging boards (you don't need to change fins) - Special boards you're building with specific fins in mind - Surfers who fall in love with a specific fin and don't want to change - Company signage boards

Reality check: Glass-ons look incredible but they're not practical for everyday boards. Good for special projects.

Blake's Recommendation

- Performance board: Futures or FCS II (easy swaps, no compromise) - Longboard/Glider: Single-fin long box (versatility) - Wall hanger / special build: Glass-on fins (aesthetics) - Budget consideration: Futures are standard and cost-effective

Most Lundquist boards come with Futures or FCS II because they're the practical choice for surfers who actually ride their boards.