Fins

Question
Hi Windlover.

I have an old, but virtually unused Mistral Shredder (120 liters, I think).  It needs a fin.  I weigh 175 lbs, enjoy 15 - 25 mph winds in open water (swells, chop).  

Can you recommend a fin, or at least a size of fin?  It is an old board, will I need some sort of adaptor?

Answer
Hey Anawan,

You will need to look for A box, US box, or Chinook box type fin. Most new fins will be listed as A box. These are the only types that will fit your board. They don't make adapters for the newer type fins to fit these old boxes. But, they still make plenty of the A box fins so it shouldn't be hard to find something that will work for you. Something in about a 12-16" or 30-45cm length should work well for you. The smaller range for 20-25mph winds, the larger range for 15-18mph winds. I have an older Screamer 105ltr that I use only a 14" or 38cm blade with 5.2 & 5.8 sails.

A blade fin will help you go fast and upwind but may be a bit more work for jibing. A freeride fin will be fairly fast, decent upwind and work well for turning. A wave fin will work well for turning but not be as fast or as good upwind. From what you describe for your conditions, I would recommend a blade or slalom fin first and freeride fin second.

Check out www.windsurfingmag.com under links, then accessories and retailers to find some listings and pics. Also watch ebay for used fins. You may find some good fins at a better price. Search windsurf, windsurfer, & windsurfing to see all postings.