🏄♂️ Welcome to Your Monthly Surf Culture Deep Dive

Welcome to the Hawaiian South Shore Monthly Newsletter - your comprehensive guide to the surf community, gear insights, and ocean culture. This monthly publication delivers in-depth content including member spotlights, educational articles, product reviews, and surf world updates to help intermediate and advanced surfers improve their skills and stay connected to our community.

This is different from our Aloha Friday Newsletter, which you receive weekly with quick updates on new arrivals and restocked items at our shop. Think of Aloha Friday as your shopping updates, and this monthly newsletter as your deep-dive into surf culture, education, and community stories.

Here's what's inside this month's edition:

📝 A Message from David

🌊 World Surf League Announces Major Changes to World Tour Format in 2026

For the past five years, the World Surf League (WSL) has undertaken an experiment that noticeably changed the structure of the world tour and world championship.

WSL's 2021 Format Shift: A New Structure

Starting in 2021, the WSL implemented a series of rules impacting how the tour was scheduled and the championship was won. The biggest changes were a midyear cut that saw the bottom third of the tour rankings dropped from the tour (forced to fight for requalification on the Challenger series) and the single-day championship event that was contested by the five top-ranked surfers on both the women and men's tours. At the end of the 10-event regular season, rather than awarding the world title to the person with the highest cumulative point total, the top five battled it out at Trestles for the title, with each surfer's seeding in the championship event based on their year-end ranking.

Mixed Reactions and Key Criticisms

This new structure was controversial, to say the least. While it had some pros—such as shortened events in the back half of the season and a made-for-television finals event that was scheduled ahead of time and offered guaranteed drama, it also replaced Pipeline with Trestles as the final, deciding event of the year. In addition, it penalized surfers who had dominated their seasons with multiple wins and huge points leads, as they were still required to win on finals day in order to claim the championship cup.

Arguments for and Against the Format

While there were some arguments for this format—such as the fact that it reflected the format in other sports, that it forced the world's best to be able to perform under pressure, and that it gave underdogs a chance to win world titles (such as Steph Gilmore, who famously surfed her way from the fifth ranking all the way through to the championship, winning her record-breaking eighth world title—it also heavily favored surfers whose approach was fit naturally with the wave at Lower Trestles and robbed consistently dominant athletes of what would previously have been guaranteed world titles.

Carissa Moore: A Case Study in Format Impact

The biggest example of this was Carissa Moore, who lost three world titles in the single-day finals format during years when she absolutely dominated the regular season and came into the finals with hefty points leads. If it weren't for the WSL's experiment, Carissa would have won eight world titles instead of five, and Steph Gilmore would only have won seven—which means Carissa would be the record holder for most female world titles.

WSL's Reversal: Back to Traditional Format in 2026

After five years of this format, the WSL's new CEO, Ryan Crosby, announced this week that the world tour will be reverting to its traditional format—albeit with a few small changes. Starting in 2026, the world tour will no longer use the single-day finals format. Instead, the athlete with the highest cumulative points total at the end of the season will once again be crowned world champion. In addition, the Pipe Masters will once again be the final stop on the world tour (rather than the opening event, as it has been the past five years), with the WSL regaining the rights to the Pipe Masters IP from Vans.

Pipe Masters Returns as the Final Event

And to increase the influence of Pipe on the world tour, the points at the Pipe Masters will receive extra weight (with a multiplier of 1.5). While the other 11 events of the year will award 10,000 points to the winner, the "finals" event at Pipeline will award 15,000 to the winner, with the other placings also increased by the same multiplier.

Other Format Changes in Detail

Other changes to the format include the fact that the first-round non-elimination heat will no longer occur in events (which means that every heat will be an elimination heat) and the midyear cut will no longer exist. Instead, the entire roster of tour athletes will contest the first nine events of the year. Then, the 10th and 11th events (which the WSL is calling the "post-season") will only feature the top 2/3 of the tour's athletes (due to the assumption that anyone ranked in the bottom 1/3 after nine events will not be a mathematical contender for the title). Finally, all of the tour athletes (including those who didn't surf the "post-season") will join together to surf the "finals" event at Pipeline. After Pipe, the world title and year-end rankings will be decided by counting athlete's top seven results from the nine-event "regular season," as well as their two "post-season" results and "finals" result at Pipeline.

Positive Reactions Across the Surf Community

This change has received a lot of positive press over the past week, with surf fans and competitors alike celebrating the return to a cumulative points world championship that ends at Pipeline. It has also generated speculation about whether the changes will motivate a number of the sport's most legendary athletes to return to competition.

Will Legends Return in 2026?

Carissa Moore stepped away from the world tour this past year to focus on having a family. At the same time, John John Florence also took a sabbatical this season, opting to focus on his family, freesurfing, and other passion projects. Steph Gilmore is also in the midst of a two-year sabbatical (although she surfed the Gold Coast event this week as a wild card). Finally, Gabriel Medina has missed the first half of the 2025 season with an injury, and has missed previous seasons for personal reasons. These four athletes hold 19 world titles between them, and many fans hope that the new format will entice them back onto the world tour. Oahu's Carissa and John John, in particular, have a lot to gain from the 2026 format, as they are two of the best ever at Pipeline, and have also proven to be consistently dominant competitors throughout the course of entire seasons.

The Comeback Carousel Summary: Who Might Return?

This change has ignited discussions about potential returns from surfing's elite:

With 19 combined world titles, their return could elevate the competition to legendary levels.

John John and Kelly Slater React

When asked about the recently announced changes, John John was enthusiastic about the effect it would have on the sport, as well as the fact that Pipeline would once again be the final event of the season and likely decide the world title. "Pipeline holds a legendary place in the world of surfing," said Florence. "It's one of the most perfect, yet challenging waves on the planet, and it's where some of our sport's most iconic moments have unfolded. Every year, the surf world looks forward to what Pipeline will deliver. I can't wait to see the season end in Hawaii again."

Kelly Slater: Pipeline Is Home

11-time world champion and retired world tour competitor Kelly Slater shared similar sentiments, saying, "Pipeline has shaped the history of surfing more than any other wave, especially in competition. Many of the most defining moments of my career happened there. I wanted to win the Pipe Masters almost as much as I wanted to win the world title, and it's great to see those two things now reconnected. Putting Pipe back where it belongs on the CT, with added weight, honors the past while setting up something really special for the future."

👤 Member Spotlight: Ernie from Big Island

This month we're featuring Ernie, a Big Island entrepreneur who embodies the perfect blend of business acumen and surf passion. As the owner of Poke Market, he's turned his love for fish into a thriving business while maintaining his commitment to the waves.

The Q&A Session

1. When and why did you first try surfing?

"I had been playing baseball for a few years and I became good friends with Kainoa McGee. One day he asked me if I wanted to try bodyboarding and we gave up our cleats for fins. I never looked back."

2. What board are you currently riding, and what made you choose it?

"Currently I am riding 5'2" Lost Party Platter. I chose it specifically because it's a full carbon fiber build. These are the most like the boards I was shaping for myself 15 years ago…..When I came back from culinary school, I hadn't been surfing for awhile so I needed a board that was short, wide and performance based…..that's what these boards are but because they are carbon fiber, it is very light and strong."

3. Have you tried any new surf gear lately? What difference has it made for your sessions?

"Kelly Slater Endorfins carbon fiber fins (quad set); it's made my board faster, lighter and more responsive."

4. What's one thing that has improved your surfing the most?

"The lifestyle here on the Big Island; being a small business owner has allowed me the opportunity to carve out the schedule that allows me to surf more regularly. And of course, eating healthy, locally sourced and getting in my stretches….."

5. What qualities do you look for in a good surf spot? (No need to name specific locations)

"We only got two spots here in Hilo so……I not picky 😂"

6. What's your go-to post-surf spot for food or drinks?

"Poke Market……because I am the owner, it's healthy and it's a lifestyle."

7. Besides surfing, what other water or outdoor activities do you enjoy?

"Fishing, I love anything that has to do with scales…..painting fish, cooking fish, fighting fish, raising fish…..it's about the fish."

8. What's one surf skill or spot you're excited to try next?

"The indoor wave pool…..looks easy but I'll bet it takes a whole different set of understanding."

9. What's the most memorable surfing experience you've had in Hawaii?

"Hilo Bay…..that's the best wave…..with the sun rising out of the water in the east and a snow capped mauna behind you, surfing a perfect left for 100 yards in with your friends….….its like a slice of heaven."

10. What do you value most about your local surf shop experience?

"Customer service, knowledge of product and welcoming to all experience levels …..from the novice to the pro."

11. Is there anything you wish more surf shops would offer or do?

"I wish more surf shops would give that personal touch Like Hawaiian South Shore does, from the hand written thank you notes, always calling back, always knowledgeable……it's hard to beat."

Follow Ernie on Instagram: @poke.market

Mahalo for being part of our ohana!

🏄 The Firewire TJ Pro Mid: Blurring the Lines Between Longboard Flow and Mid-Length Performance

TJ Pro Mid Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of surfboard design, finding the perfect balance between paddle power, stability, and performance can feel like chasing an endless wave. For longboarders looking to downsize without sacrificing feel, or shortboarders seeking more glide and flow, the search for that ideal "in-between" board often leads to compromise.

Enter the Firewire TJ Pro Mid – a collaborative masterpiece from three-time world longboard champion Taylor Jensen and renowned shaper Dan Mann. This board might just end your quest for the perfect mid-length.

Born from the DNA of the highly successful TJ Pro longboard model, the TJ Pro Mid isn't merely a scaled-down version. Instead, it's a purpose-built evolution that opens new doors for surfers of all levels. Whether you're navigating crowded lineups, teaching the groms, or looking to inject versatility into your quiver, this board brings something unique to the lineup.

The Evolution: From TJ Pro Longboard to Mid-Length Magic

The Firewire TJ Pro Mid Longboard earned its place as a top-selling model for good reason—it delivers performance in a wide range of conditions. According to Taylor Jensen, the TJ Pro Mid began with a straightforward idea: "Hit it with a shrink ray gun, drop it down a couple notches, and let's see how it fits."

This wasn't just about making a smaller board. It was about solving real-world problems. Jensen noted, "The problem that you come to with having a nine-foot board is it just doesn't fit in the pocket as much."

As a father watching his kids learn to surf, he also wanted a board that would let them experience longboard flow—without the size challenges of a full log. "My kids love it. They won't ride anything else now," Jensen shared.

Dan Mann and Jensen took years to refine the design. Jensen revealed, "I've had like a variation of it sort of that Dan made me three or four years ago. We just hadn't ever perfected it and just weren't quite ready to release it yet."

Today's TJ Pro Mid represents the culmination of this patient design journey.

Design Philosophy: Longboard DNA in a More Responsive Package

What makes the Firewire TJ Pro Mid truly unique is its origin story. Unlike other mid-lengths, which are often stretched-out shortboards, this one draws from longboard roots. As Dan Mann puts it: "The shape is definitely on the longboard side down into the mid-length world versus like the Boss Up which is more from the shortboard world."

The outline features a pulled-in pintail for control, while the wider nose keeps the board trim and quick. You get the smooth glide of a longboard but can push hard into turns when conditions call for it.

I-Bolic Construction with Volcanic Lamination: Performance Meets Durability

The TJ Pro Mid is built using Firewire's Volcanic I-Bolic construction, blending their I-Bolic tech with sustainable basalt fiber.

Dan Mann explained this clearly: "Traditional PU longboards would break down with little micro fractures. This construction either eliminates or postpones it for a really long time."

For intermediate to advanced surfers who demand longevity, this board stands strong over time.

Bottom Contour and Rocker Profile

This board retains the proven bottom contour from the TJ Pro longboard: "Concave all the way through and then splits into a V with a little double barrel through the fins," explained Mann.

The rocker profile is relatively flat at the tail, enhancing speed and flow through flatter sections. Jensen added: "That flatter tail rocker helps it skate through sections and accommodates really shitty waves too."

Perfect for South Shore surfers facing everything from pristine peelers to sectiony breaks.

Rail Design: The Key to Performance

The rail profile is crucial to the board's versatility. Jensen emphasized it's a: "More foiled-out performance rail."

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the rail design meets you where you are.

Versatile Fin Setup: Customize Your Ride

The board has a five-fin setup that works well with:

• Quad – Jensen's pick for good surf
• 2+1 – Classic control and flow
• Single – Loose and cruisy
• Twin – Playful and skatey

Dan Mann placed the fins further forward, which:

• Shifts the pivot point forward.
• Creates a larger sweet spot.
• Increases drive and speed, even with smaller fins.

Who Should Ride the TJ Pro Mid

This board suits:

• Longboarders downsizing
• Surfers with limited storage
• One-board quiver seekers
• Advanced surfers chasing feel

Dan Mann called it: "A silent killer... very good all-around car board to have in your car at all times."

Wave Size and Conditions

The TJ Pro Mid performs across:

• Small waves: Eggy outline + flat rocker = speed.
• Medium waves: Excels with glide and maneuverability.
• Bigger surf: Handles point breaks, especially with smaller fins.

"In smaller surf… I can flow and connect sections and fly on the thing," Jensen says.

Size Range and Selection Guide

Jensen's wife (6'0") rides the 7'8". His youngest rides the 7'2".

Real-World Performance

The board delivers hybrid magic. Dan Mann remarked: "It definitely looks like he's ripping a longboard ridiculously more than he's ripping on a shortboard."

It connects dots, draws longboard lines, and launches off sections. "It's just like a little rocket ship that I can just fly and skate and connect dots and like so much fun," said Jensen.

Conclusion: The Mid-Length Revolution

If you're searching for a surfboard that bridges the gap between performance and fun. This Firewire TJ Pro Mid review is exactly what you need. Additionally, designed by Dan Mann in collaboration with longboarding icon Taylor Jensen, the TJ Pro Mid is more than just a shrunken longboard. It's a thoughtfully crafted mid-length board built to suit surfers across all levels and wave conditions. In this post, we'll explore everything from its design story and construction to fin setups and who it's perfect for.

It's safe to say this board is more than a new shape—it's a reinvention. Designed through collaboration and crafted with premium materials. Adaptable for any surfer, the TJ Pro Mid checks all the boxes. Whether you're catching your first green wave or hunting down long walls on a point break, it brings longboard elegance and shortboard agility into one rideable package.

Ready for something that adapts to your surfing—not the other way around? The Firewire TJ Pro Mid might just be your next go-to board.

🎯 Stu Kenson, the Twinzer, and a New Collab with Firewire

The Legacy of San Diego Shapers

San Diego has a long history of producing legendary surfboard shapers, from Steve Lis and Skip Frye to Rusty Priesendorfer and Jason Bennet. Each brought their own insights and vision to the art of shaping, and in the process helped to shape the entire surf industry.

Stu Kenson's Journey

Stu Kenson is another shaper from San Diego who has helped push the evolution of surfboard design. Stu started doing ding repair as a teenager (13 years old), and shaped his first board in 1971. He grew up near the Clark Foam factory and soon started shaping in the same surf shop as the legendary Terry Martin. In other words, he has been surrounded by the core of the Southern California surfboard industry since early in his career.

Stu eventually branched out and started his own businesses, starting with a glassing outfit called Evening Glass. He shaped for JS for a while, then started his own board label as well—SK Surfboards.

Today, SK Surfboards is known for producing some of the best big wave guns and high performance shortboards in Southern California. But what has really put Stu on the map is his dedication to Twinzers.

The TJ Twinzer design is a modified twin-fin that has two additional small side bite fins (one on each side) installed in front of the twin fins and closer to the rail—(sort of like a reverse quad setup).

This concept was first created in 1988 by Wil Jobson (another legendary Southern California shaper). The next year, the design was tested and proven by Martin Potter, who won six events and the world title with a twinzer in his quiver. Other shapers took notice, and soon there were a number of surfboard designers tweaking and perfecting the twinzer concept.

The twinzer's popularity peaked in the 1990s, as surfers discovered and experimented with the additional purchase the forward side bites provided to the fast but often too loose twin fin design. The forward Canard fins direct water to the foiled side of the larger twin fins, reducing cavitation and that slidey feel that twin fins are notorious for (and that can sometimes be a bit unsettling).

Stu Kenson started shaping twinzers in 1989, shortly after Jobson first came up with the concept. He perfected his twinzer design while shaping under Rusty Preisendorfer, but watched the design fall out of fashion in the late 1990s. Recently, though, the twinzer has made a major comeback, largely on the back of dedicated twinzer fanatics like Kenson. Close to 80 percent of all of boards he sells today are twinzers, and the design works on everything from grovelers to big wave guns. As Stu tells it, the magic is in the fin placement. "The design is super important. If you don't put the fins in the right place, they're a dog with fleas."

Stu has recently released his TJ Twinzer model with Firewire, and is now available at our store Hawaiian South Shore. The full-outline, round-pin board is a drivey, fast, front-footed speed machine that maintains its control and performance thanks to Stu's signature twinzer fin set and the magic placement he uses for the boxes. The TJ Twinzer will be available here in Helium construction, in sizes ranging from 6'8" to 7'4", with Futures fin boxes.

We are super excited to get our hands on the new TJ Twinzer from Stu x Firewire. The board's blend of speed and performance is sure to turn heads in all types of waves.

🔧 How To Choose The Right FCS II Fins By Hawaiian South Shore

Complete FCS Fin Guide by Hawaiian South Shore

Fins may be one of the smallest parts of your surfboard setup, but they have a massive impact on how your board performs. At Hawaiian South Shore, we know that choosing the right fins can transform your experience on a wave. That's why we offer the complete lineup of FCS fins, engineered for every kind of surf condition, board shape, and rider preference.

In this detailed guide, we'll explore the four major FCS II fin families—Reactor, Performer, Accelerator, and Carver. These are the same fins trusted by pro surfers and everyday riders alike.

Why FCS Fins Are Critical to Performance

Fins provide control, stability, and direction. They allow your board to track on the face of a wave, help initiate and hold through turns, and impact everything from acceleration to release. FCS (Fin Control System) revolutionized surfing with its tool-less fin design and continues to innovate with families tailored to distinct riding styles.

Understanding what each family offers—and when to use them—makes it easier to select fins that complement your board and elevate your surfing.

The Four FCS Fin Families Explained

Each family was developed by FCS based on specific performance characteristics. Here's a snapshot:

• Reactor – Speed and tight radius turns
• Performer – Balance and all-around performance
• Accelerator – Drive, control, and responsiveness
• Carver – Powerful turns and hold in open face waves

FCS Reactor Fins: For Speed and Precision

Performance Overview: The FCS Reactor family is built for surfers who want lightning-fast turns in the most critical parts of the wave. These fins are all about tight radius arcs and quick responsiveness. The upright template and flat foil on the side fins enable rapid direction changes, making them ideal for high-performance shortboards and surfers who live for snappy maneuvers in the pocket.

Ideal Wave Conditions: Best suited for hollow, punchy waves where tight turning arcs are critical. The Reactor fins excel in steep waves where reaction time matters most.

Surfer Style & Match: Perfect for surfers who like to stay in the pocket, launch aerials, and transition from rail to rail with minimal drag. Great for lightweight surfers and those with a fast-twitch approach to surfing.

FCS Performer Fins: Balanced Versatility

Performance Overview: The Performer fin family is the most balanced option in the FCS lineup. These fins are designed for surfers who want consistency, predictability, and reliable performance in a wide variety of surf conditions. Featuring a well-proportioned template with a neutral sweep and moderate base, Performer fins deliver a blend of speed, flow, and response.

Ideal Wave Conditions: These fins thrive in all kinds of surf—from crumbly beach breaks to punchy point waves. Their versatility makes them a go-to choice for everyday use.

Surfer Style & Match: Performer fins are ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers who want one setup for multiple boards or conditions. Their adaptability also makes them a great choice for progressing surfers looking for something forgiving yet responsive.

FCS Accelerator Fins: Speed with Control

Performance Overview: The FCS Accelerator family is designed to offer speed and control during high-performance surfing. These fins are characterized by a fuller tip and increased sweep (rake), allowing powerful, controlled turns without sacrificing speed. They are perfect for executing maneuvers with confidence on larger, more critical sections of the wave.

Ideal Wave Conditions: The Accelerator excels in overhead and punchy beach break conditions. It's designed to handle powerful surf where maintaining control at high speed is essential.

Surfer Style & Match: Ideal for heavier surfers, power surfers, or those who ride with force and commitment. These fins hold well under pressure and offer increased drive through bottom turns and snaps off the lip.

FCS Carver Fins: Power and Control for Drawn-Out Turns

Performance Overview: The Carver family of fins is designed for surfers who favor powerful, drawn-out turns and want maximum control on open face waves. These fins feature an elongated template and high sweep (rake), offering exceptional hold and projection off the bottom turn.

Ideal Wave Conditions: Carver fins thrive in long, open-faced point breaks and powerful down-the-line waves. They're perfect when you need to maintain control through long rail engagements.

Surfer Style & Match: These fins are ideal for strong, heavy-footed surfers who like to surf on rail and commit to carving maneuvers. The Carver family works best on boards with more rocker and is favored by surfers looking for stability over looseness.

FCS Fin Sizing Guide

Choosing the correct fin size is critical for performance, control, and safety. FCS fins are sized based on the rider's weight. Always match your fin size to both your weight and surfing style to ensure optimal response and stability.

FAQs About FCS Fins

Which FCS fin family is best for beginners?

The Performer family is a great starting point for new surfers. It offers balanced performance and works well in various conditions.

Can I mix fins from different FCS families?

Technically yes, but it's not recommended. Matching all fins from the same family ensures consistent feel and performance.

Do all FCS fins work with FCS II systems?

FCS II fins are designed for tool-less installation. However, FCS I fins require adapters to fit into FCS II plugs. Always check compatibility.

How often should I replace my fins?

Inspect your fins for cracks, warping, or looseness. Replace if damaged or after a heavy impact. Materials like Soft Flex may degrade faster over time.

Are the fins environmentally friendly?

The Neo Glass Eco range is made with 50% bio-resin and is an excellent choice for surfers who care about sustainability without compromising performance.

Customer Reviews

FCS II H4 Surfboard Fin Review

Final Thoughts: Choose Fins That Match Your Surfing

FCS has earned its place as a global leader in surfboard fin innovation, offering finely tuned options for every kind of surfer. Whether you're chasing speed in punchy reef breaks or carving long lines at a mellow point, there's a fin family tailored to your goals.

Still not sure what fins are right for your setup? Our team at Hawaiian South Shore is always happy to help. Whether online or in-store, we'll make sure you find the fin setup that enhances your board and suits your surfing style.

We're a premier dealer so we are one of the first to get them in and we can ship FREE to any US address.

⚓ Choosing the Right Leash for Your Surfboard

Selecting the appropriate surfboard leash is crucial for both safety and performance. An ill-suited leash can lead to equipment failure or hinder your surfing experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the ideal leash based on your board type and surfing conditions.

Understanding Leash Length

The length of your leash should generally match the length of your surfboard. This ensures that during a fall, your board remains at a safe distance, reducing the risk of injury. Here's a quick reference:

Using a leash shorter than your board increases the risk of the board snapping back toward you after a wipeout, while excessively long leashes can cause unnecessary drag.

Leash Thickness: Balancing Strength and Drag

Leash thickness impacts both durability and water resistance:

Selecting the appropriate thickness ensures your leash can handle the wave conditions without compromising performance.

Ankle vs. Calf (Knee) Cuffs

The attachment point of the leash affects mobility and comfort:

Choosing between ankle and calf cuffs depends on your surfing style and board type.

Proper Leash Attachment

Ensuring your leash is correctly attached prevents damage to your board and enhances safety:

Proper attachment minimizes the risk of equipment failure and prolongs the lifespan of both your leash and surfboard.

SURFING LEASH 101 WITH KEONI WATSON

Keoni explains the Freedom Helix leash as the evolution of the original Freedom leash. It uses multiple materials—a standard urethane core, outer woven material, and a titanium Helix wrap. The Helix limits overstretching by providing a "healthy, comfortable flex" without it stretching indefinitely.

He shares that Nathan Florence used prototypes at Pipeline for 45 days straight and confirmed the leash held its original length, saying no other leash would've survived that stretch of swell.

Keoni talks about the downside of super strong leashes that don't flex, which can cause hip and knee injuries from the pull. The Helix solves this with multi-material stretch points that work in stages.

He prefers the Helix Comp leash for town waves—it stretches just enough, rebounds well, and doesn't lose shape. It also doesn't tangle easily due to its stiffer feel and extended stem and horn, which prevents kinks and keeps the leash away from the ankle.

The cuff has a good amount of structure and padding—not too minimalist—and includes a pull tab and gel pattern inside to prevent slipping.

Keoni wears his leash at a 45-degree angle off the back of his ankle so it comes out of the water clean and avoids tangling around fins or the board tail.

He doubles the leash string (loops it) to get four points of pressure, which works well with the soft, thin rail saver. He learned to loop the string in an over-under pattern like electrical cords to reduce tangles.

For big boards, he uses two leash plugs—one with a main string and one with a backup thinner, more supple string to reduce interference while still giving security.

He notes sizes offered: 6' comp, 6' regular, 7', 7' comp, 9', 9' calf, but no 8' in this series.

For a 6'10" board, he recommends a 7' leash for safety and performance.

By carefully selecting and maintaining your surfboard leash, you enhance your safety and surfing experience. Stay informed about the latest developments to make choices that best suit your needs and the environment.

🎯 Wondering if a Different Longboard Fin Will Change Your Ride? It Will.

If you've ever looked at your longboard and thought, "I wonder if switching fins would make a difference…" You're not alone.

We get this question all the time—through YouTube comments, Instagram DMs, emails, and here in the shop. And a lot of surfers think unless the fin looks radically different, it's probably not going to make a big impact.

But the truth is: Even a small change in fin design can completely change how your board feels. It can loosen it up. Make it hold through turns. Give you more flow. Or make the board respond faster under your feet.

Once someone finally swaps out their fin and feels that difference? They almost always say, "I should've done this sooner."

🧠 Why Copying Pro Fin Setups Doesn't Always Work

You watch a YouTube clip, hear a pro say they're using a 9.75" fin, and it's tempting to order the exact same one. But here's the problem: that fin works for how they surf. Not necessarily for you.

Take CJ Nelson—he surfs with a ton of power. He steps right on the tail, drives the board hard, and makes big fins pivot with control. If you're not putting that same pressure into the board, that fin might feel stiff and unresponsive.

Then there's Joel Tudor—his approach is smooth and graceful. He glides, trims, and flows with finesse. His fins are tuned for control and balance, not for hard, driving turns.

And Taylor Jensen? He's a high-performance longboarder with serious back-foot power. His setups are made for fast transitions and explosive turns—totally different from traditional logging.

Even if you're the same size or weight as one of these pros, their setup may not feel right. That's because it comes down to your own riding style, foot placement, and wave choice.

📋 The 6 Questions We Ask to Dial You In

When you ask us what fin to ride, we're not trying to complicate things—we're trying to help you get it right the first time. Here's what we'll usually ask:

Single Fin or 2+1? Know the Feel

Another thing we'll ask you is: Do you want to ride it as a single fin or a 2+1 setup? Some boards are built strictly for one or the other. But many longboards with side fin boxes can be ridden both ways, and it makes a big difference in feel. So what's the difference?

Single Fin: Classic, Flowing, and Smooth

Single fins give you that traditional longboard feel—fluid turns, drawn-out lines, and less resistance in the water. You engage the rail more and rely on subtle weight shifts instead of sharp direction changes.

🟪 2+1 Setup: More Control and Drive

Add side bites and you get a 2+1: more control, quicker response, and added drive through turns. The center fin still handles most of the steering, but the side fins help you push harder—especially in steeper or faster waves.

🧪 What Different Fins Actually Do?

We don't believe in hype. We focus on proven shapes that have been trusted for years. Here's a quick guide to what different fin designs actually feel like in the water:

Need Stability and Hold?

Look for fins with a wider base and more rake (that long swept-back shape). These give you more drive and stability, perfect for long drawn-out turns and confident noseriding.

Want Tighter Turns and Looseness?

A more upright fin with less rake makes the board feel more nimble and quick. It pivots faster and is ideal for beach breaks or smaller waves.

Looking for Flex and a Light Feel?

Some fins have more flex in the tip, giving your board a springy, playful feel. This lightens the ride and adds flow through turns.

📩 Thinking of Trying a New Fin? Let's Talk.

If you're curious about how a different fin might change your ride, chances are—it will. Even subtle changes can make your board feel faster, looser, smoother, or more dialed in.

Shoot us an email with your answers to the 6 questions, or just stop by the shop. We're here to help you find something that works for your surfing.

📅 May Days Wrap-Up: The Biggest Surf Stories of the Month

It has been a busy month in surfing. Over the past four weeks, we've seen competition at borderline XL Margaret River, the first heats at The Box in five years, the bottom third of the World Tour get cut, the world title race blown wide open, and aerial antics at the Stab High contest in Japan—not to mention noteworthy runs of swells in Fiji, Indonesia, and Mexico.

Here's a breakdown of the biggest stories in surfing in May.

Jordy Smith and Gabriella Bryan Win in Western Australia

The seventh event on the World Tour schedule and the third in a row held in Australia, the contest at Margaret River in Western Australia was exciting on a number of different fronts. First of all, it was held in some of the biggest Main Break we've seen at a contest in years, with local wildcard Willow Hardy sending it on a solid 12-footer. Barron Mamiya got smoked on the inside section and stuck in a cave, numerous people took bombs on the head and broke boards, and that all happened before the event went mobile and relocated to The Box—the hairball slab across the channel that ushered in below-sea-level charging back in the 1990s.

Only four heats were held at The Box in the round of 16 before the wind went bad, but in that time, surf fans were treated to something they haven't seen in half a decade. The Box was solid four to six foot, and competitors were either dominating (like Mamiya, who rebounded from the previous day's carnage to put on a clinic) or getting lost amongst the boils (like top five surfer Kanoa Igarashi, who only managed to put together a 2.50 heat total). The wave of the contest—and likely the wave of the year—went to Griffin Colapinto, who somehow managed to wrangle the wildest foam ball ride we've ever seen, earning a 9.0 and yet another heat win. (Griff also nabbed the only perfect 10 of the event for a huge air reverse into the flats at Main Break.) He was rewarded for his efforts two hours later, when his brother Crosby Colapinto eked out a win over Hawaii's Jackson Bunch and in doing so was the last person to make the mid-year cut.

Jordy Smith and Gabriella Bryan ended up taking the wins a few days later at Main Break. Both of them also leave Australia in first place on the rankings, and will wear the yellow jerseys as the tour heads to Trestles, where only two thirds of the competitors who started the year will still be in the mix. Griffin Colapinto and Caitlyn Simmers placed runners up.

The Final Cut Is the Deepest

The new CEO of the World Surf League, Ryan Crosby, took over on May 13, 2024. A year later, he announced major changes to the World Tour in 2026, including the fact that the season will once again end at Pipeline, there will no longer be a finals day event (instead, the world champion will be the person with the most cumulative points after 12 events, as it once was), and there will no longer be a mid-year cut. While this third point likely came as a relief for a lot of the tours bottom-dwellers, it also made this year's cut sting more than normal, since this is the last year people are going to have to suffer through it. After the Margaret River Pro, we now know who those unfortunate few are. The following surfers will not be contesting the final four events of 2025: Matthew McGillivray, Liam O'Brien, Jackson Bunch, George Pittar, Ian Goveia, Samuel Pupo, Imaikalani deVault, Deivid Silva, Ian Gentil, Ramzi Boukhiam, Edgard Groggia, and Ryan Callinan. They will have to battle it out on the Challenger series in hopes of earning their way back onto tour next year. On the women's side, Tatiana Weston-Webb and Johanne Defay were both injured for most of the season and have fallen off tour and will be relegated to the Challenger Series, along with Nadia Erostarbe and Sally Fitzgibbons. In addition, Brissa Hennessy, Bella Kenworthy, Vahine Fierro, and Sawyer Lindblad all failed to make the mid-season cut and will miss the remaining four events in 2025, although they have already qualified for the 2026 World Tour.

Stab High Goes Stratospheric in the Land of the Rising Sun

Stab's annual aerial contest has evolved into somewhat of a novelty sideshow—way less organized and way more punk rock than the World Tour, but still entertaining as hell. This year was no exception, as the event headed to a wave pool in Japan with a new and improved super ramp on both the left and the right. Over the course of two days, everyone went massive (including Julian Wilson, who got an invite after restarting his competitive career with a second-place wild card finish at the World Tour's Gold Coast event). There were a lot of no-makes, but the airs that were landed were characteristically huge and tweaked—all to be expected, considering the amount of talent that was packed into the pool.

Young gun Hughie Vaughn ended up winning the men's event, while Sierra Kerr won for the women. Loci Cullen won the Bottle Rockets (junior men) event, and also earned a spot in the men's final, where he placed fourth. Meanwhile, Eden Walla won the Ladybirds (junior women) event and placed equal third in the women's event. Mikey Wright didn't manage to make the men's final, but he won the Monster Air award for the single best air of the event—a huge, inverted lien rotation that he landed during the qualifying rounds.

Southern Hemisphere Kicks into Gear

Summer doesn't technically start until the solstice on June 21, but the southern hemisphere kicked into gear early, with a solid run of swell for Indonesia, a nonstop barrage of borderline XL swell at Mexico's Puerto Escondido, and the first proper Ledge swell at Cloudbreak in Fiji. The Cloudbreak swell, in particular, was about as good as it gets—but it was also as crowded as we've seen in years, with a super competitive crew of 50 to 75 pro-level surfers descending on the legendary left-hander. Numerous people we know who were there have reported that it was the most frustrating swell they've ever surfed in Fiji—but for those who managed to snag a gem from amongst the crowd, it sure looked pretty.

Meanwhile, during the last few days of May, a super late season north swell hit Oahu, delivering four- to six-foot sets along the Seven-Mile Miracle. While we can't ever truly write the North Shore off, it would take a borderline miracle for us to see another proper north swell on Oahu before September, so here's hoping everyone managed to make their way up to the Country and scored a few before the swell disappeared! Fortunately, south swell season is just starting, and it looks like we may get a very solid swell for Town during the first week of June.

Enjoy!