Finally, we interviewed Pio Marasco of Maui Fin Company. He works out of the same factory as the Quatro boys and is one of the leading fin shapers in the world.

What do you think about the whole Twin Fin concept - is it just fashion or will they still be around in 5 years time?   

I’m positive on the success and functionality of the Twin Fins set up. For sure there will be people using these kinds of boards and fins for ‘fashion’, but we have been able to properly test with Keith Teboul, Kauli Seadi and the whole Quatro Team and we can assure you they really work!  The boards are looser, especially on smaller waves, and they can become very drivey on bigger waves. The top speed is fantastic and the upwind ability very good. These were our first concern at the beginning of the project because we wanted to make something that works for everybody and not just for our Ho’okipa conditions here on Maui.

What range of fin sizes are working for Twin Fin boards?

For wave sailing, side shore conditions we are using 14cm to 16cm and for onshore conditions from 15cm to 16.5cm.

Are the fins the same ‘shapes’ as single fins?  If not, why not?

Let’s say that our Twin Fins are the miniature of our wave fins’ outline. The profiles are very different due to the fact that we have two fins and we do not want to create too much drag for the boards. In the end the total surface are of our MFC TP 140 (that will come out in October 2008) is the same as a wave single fin size 7.75”-8.0” (17-19cm).

Are the two fins symmetrical or are they different on each side?

With the new concave boards we are using symmetrical fins, but we are experimenting with Keith Teboul and Kauli Seadi different ideas adapting different fin shapes and profiles including asymmetrical fin sets. However we recommend using the same fin on each side to keep the same flex direction and this is why we have a RIGHT and LEFT written on our Twin Fin models. While you are sailing the fins will be flexing always in the same direction and this is very important.

Have you done any experimenting with positioning the fins in different positions on each side of the board to give better asymmetric performance? For example, better for riding on one tack and jumping on the other?

Yes, but it is something very personal and very technical that at this particular moment we do not recommend. We are still developing; working, testing and we have to go step-by-step to reach the best fin/board combination. MFC and Quatro are very excited to be working on this new project and we will definitely keep you updated on the progress!

PHOTOS: Pio at work designing and creating new concepts.