Empty fin boxes, does it even matter?

[ekwan88]

Hey everyone, so I recently bought my first 5 fin setup and using it as a quad. The trailing box is finless which leaves a hole.

Not that I can tell the difference but does this ever matter? I see people always talk about small details in regards to bottom contours of a board, but how about that fin hole? I also wouldn't want to pay for that knubster fin either.

What are your opinions? Is there already a solution for this or is it not even a problem?

[billie_morini]

The empty fin box should be filled. I use Play-do. You do not have to make it yourself, store bought is okay. But, don't use yellow. Yellow will reduce board speed. I use red because it is the fastest of the remaining standard colors.

(ekwan: seriously, an empty fin box is okay. I'm just kidding about Pla-do)

[waikikikichan]

You didn’t say what fin system you’re using, but Futures Fins does sell a filler thingamajig. But I would say the weight negates any hydrodynamic benefits. Just put a good quality thick Mylar sticker over the hole.

[oldmansurfer]

I used to worry about fin boxes. Compared to glassed in fin systems I am sure there is a lot more drag even with the fins in but what does that mean in practical terms? It might be the difference between making a wave or maneuver or not but if you are good enough that it makes that kind of difference then it won't happen very often.

[ekwan88]

Haha so seems it's not even anything to care about. But the sticker is a good cheap idea if you didn't want the hole. Thanks!