Fin review

 The Chuck Patterson Great White fin does exactly as it claims. A great fin design that allows it to stay stable, yet can easily be maneuvered when needed.

 I took the fin out for two separate tests. One on a downwind run, and one in flat water.

 The first thing I noticed in the downwind run was that the fin kept the board loose while dropping in on bumps. Once in the trough between bumps I found the fin easily let me change direction if I needed to follow, or catch another upcoming bump on the left or right. The fin also kept a very straight track. Some fins are great for downwinding because they don't veer off course, but sacrifice maneuverability when needed in tight spots. This fin has both. You can concentrate on catching and gliding, knowing that the point you're aiming for is still on track. The fin also had speed and didn't seem to have any drag what so ever. Easily gliding from one bump and into the next.

 The next run was over flat water. Some fins seem to work great in one set of certain conditions, while they lack in others. But not this fin. It held speed in flats just fine. Tracked a straight course just as it had in the downwind run. Even into a slight headwind (5 to 8 knts) it held course, and made it easy to concentrate on paddling by not having to switch sides every 3 strokes.

 All in all this is a very impressive fin. At first I liked the aggressive design, hoping that the fin would live up to the name. I had some doubts as some fins work great in some areas and not in other areas. But this handled everything I put it through. It was much better than I expected it to be, and a nice surprise. It does exactly what it says it will. If you're looking for a fin that can go from one set of conditions to another, or just want an all around good fin, this is it. Great fin worth the money. 

You can purchase it here.

The conditions of the downwind test. Fun bumps in about 20 - 25 knt wind.

The fin.

Downwinder

  For a little while now I had been looking at an Edmonds to Shilshole down wind run. Looked like a lot of fun on the map, I had no idea how much fun it would be. I waited for some sun to show, and got Shawn Jennings to go with me(after some harassing). We launched under crystal clear blue skies and mountains in the backdrop. As we launched a bald eagle flew bye just above eye level, around 25 yards away(give or take). Amazing. I've often seen these while on the water but never this close. We both headed for open water and the wind picked up at our backs. Next thing you know we were connecting bumps to the end of our route. We actually put together a few rides that were probably around 10 secs. Just flying along the top of the water. One of the best runs I've done. Can't wait for the next one! Hopefully get some more people on it! When all was said and done I saw one of the biggest sea lions I've ever seen, schools of fish, and got yelled at by a grumpy fisherman! Couldn't have been better.

This is how we roll.  

Shawn around mid paddle. 

Shawn again.

Time lapse photography

    First attempt at some time lapse with my camera. Very cold northwest sunset.