Gallery of Custom Fins
HRD-KORE FIN UPDATE!
HANALEI FINS is constantly looking for ways to improve both the quality and durability of our fins. Not only are we pushing the envelope on the design front we are always thinking about how we can improve the quality.
One of the hardest problems for us has been dealing with the inherent design limitations of the DUAL TAB fin system. It is almost impossible to make these DUAL TAB bases bulletproof as the system was designed to fail under load. The best solution we have discovered is that a solid fiberglass base is the second most durable option. The best option is G-10 as it is so much stronger than anything else, but it is not suitable for a molded fin, and as a custom fin it is both costly and time consuming to foil.
So we have spent time exploring other options for our molded fins, the first of these options is a solid fiberglass fin as shown in the above photo, These are our Q2 QUAD fins and as the photo shows they look awesome in solid fiberglass. This option is slightly heavier than the regular DUAL CARBON SORIC RTM fins that we produce, the difference in weight is 9 grams, which is a very small amount given the improved durability of the base.
The other option we have been exploring is the use of EPOXY resins instead of POLYESTER in the DUAL CARBON molded fins. By using epoxy we are hoping the improved toughness and flexibility will enhance the durability. In the process, we have also changed the amount of carbon used to strengthen the base of the fin. The carbon is now interleaved with the fiberglass in order to improve the flexural strength in the base.
Now that we have samples of these two new construction methods we are planning to perform some destructive tests in order to quantify the durability of each approach, these will be tested against our existing construction method. Once we have this data we will be able to make a more informed decision as to how to proceed going forward. At the moment we are leaning towards the solid fiberglass approach as we end up with a great looking fin that is stronger!
The goal of all this work is to improve the overall quality and durability of our HRD-KORE fin range!
INTRODUCTION
HANALEI FINS manufactures an extensive range of both RTM molded composite fins (HRD-KORE), as well as custom fiberglass & G-10 fins (HANALEI FINS). The custom fins include quads, thrusters, side bites, and regular single fins.
We offer a range of completely unique templates that are unlike anything else available in the marketplace. All fins are offered with either GEARBOX or DUAL TAB bases, as well as FUTURES bases on some designs. Many of the fin designs feature hollow inside foils for an extra performance boost.
Our custom handmade fins are produced one at a time the old fashioned way, with hand foiling and finishing. These are high quality fins with exceptional foils that feature very unique characteristics. What we call "Fearless Foils"! The single fin range only available in fiberglass.
The HRD-KORE range of fins (WTF, XTC, DS, WS2, A3, XPD2, Q2, H3, H5, and STD) are all molded composite fins, constructed using a combination of carbon fiber, fiberglass, and a SORIC Hex core. This is a light strong construction method that allows us to deliver high quality fins at a reasonable price point. All of these fins are offered with our GEARBOX base, as well as DUAL TAB, and in some templates FUTURES bases.
The various choices will be presented in three groupings - HRD-KORE, CUSTOM, and SINGLE fins.
HANALEI FINS
HRD-KORE RTM FINS
HRD-KORE is our name for the type of construction method used on our line of molded fins. It is an RTM molding technology that produces accurate, light, and strong fins. Wide range of very unique designs. More on the way!
CUSTOM FINS
The range of custom fins includes all of the HRD-KORE ranges, but additionally there are a number of new and unique templates that are currently only available as custom fins. Some of the fins shown are still in the prototyping phase.
SINGLE FINS
Hanalei Fins has an extensive range of very unique and functional single fins. These are all made from solid fiberglass and are available in a wide range of sizes. All of our single fins are custom handmade and finished.
GENERAL INFO
BLOG
The HANALEI FINS Blog is the best source for the latest info on what we are working on. There are regular posts dealing with new fin designs and the testing of these designs. Our goal to provide as much relevent information as possible about our fins, and what to expect in the future!
FIN SETUP PRIMER
Fin Setup is more art than science, but the beauty of an adjustable fin system is that you can go out and experiment for yourself to verify what effect a change in fin placement can have on the overall performance of a board. This primer will use some terminology that is best explained up front so that we are all speaking the same language.
LAYOUT GUIDES
These layout guides provide information on the positioning of fins for various types of fin setups. They are not specific to any given board length as they are only intended to serve as a starting point. It is left to the builder to determine their preferred layout. Downloadable copies are available.
Modern under the glass fin system
For those interested in the GEARBOX fin system use the link below to visit the website. There is a lot of information there on the system, check it out!
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