Some of the weed fin models are old acquaintances: The name Lessacher has been synonymous with sophisticated fins for decades, and the developments are now available from Unifiber. Select and Concept X have also been screwed into the boxes between Fehmarn and Leucate for a long time. In addition to the weed fins tested, MFC, Lagoa and other manufacturers also have weed models in their programme, but these were not available for testing.
When choosing the right size, the following applies: Do not choose the same length, but look for a similar surface area. Weed fins have up to 50% more surface area with the same draught due to the greater inclination - this can result in noticeably poorer turning characteristics and speed. You can find out which length you should choose for your freeride or freerace weed fin here:
Concept X Weed Race
Concept X brand fins are still available in the shops; in the medium term, the brand and the tested fin model will continue to operate under the name "Project 5". The affordable Weed Race model is made from robust G10 material and is comparatively stiff. In the practical test, the fin impressed with its stable inflow, it reliably takes pressure even with a less sensitive riding style and has a low risk of spin-out. It also offers a pleasing amount of planing performance, meaning that the board's water position remains quite free and sporty - even if you put more pressure on the upwind edge with the foot straps mounted far out. For this reason, you can even choose a slightly smaller fin in comparison; therefore, orientate yourself more towards the lower end of the recommended size range.
- Available sizes: 28/32/36/40 cm
- Box systems: Power/Tuttle/ Deep Tuttle
- Material: G10
- Price: 119-129 Euro
Maui Ultra Fins Weed
The Weed model is made from G10 material, although this is a little lighter than other manufacturers. Available in sizes from 22 to 44 centimetres, the Weed is primarily recommended for freeriders. The fin has visibly more surface area than other models, especially in the tip area. This results in above-average planing performance and plenty of control on the water. Although the fin does not produce quite as much lift on the cross as its sister model, the Weed Slalom, for example, those who cruise with straps on the inside and more upright will not be negatively affected by this and can instead fully enjoy the fin's strengths. Overall, the fin is at a high level in terms of gliding performance, control and top speed.
- Available sizes: 22-44 cm (2 cm increments)
- Box systems: Power/Tuttle/Deep Tuttle
- Material: G10
- Price: 119-169 Euro
Maui Ultra Fins Slalom Weed
Compared to the Weed model, the Slalom Weed is slightly slimmer and thinner in the tip area. In direct comparison, the fin also planes well, but the Weed builds up counter-pressure a little earlier in light winds, which makes planing a little easier. As soon as you are surfing with power, however, the Slalom Weed also offers plenty of back pressure, a reliable inflow and even more top speed on room wind courses than its already fast sister model. The Slalom Weed also scores points on the cross, as it keeps the windward edge nicely up even if you have the straps mounted far out on the edge and are travelling with powerful sails. The Slalom Weed is our tip for all those who want to really step on the gas with freerace boards and powerful camber sails!
- Available sizes: 26-52 cm (2 cm increments)
- Box systems: Power/Tuttle/Deep Tuttle
- Material: G10
- Price: 129-199 Euro >> available here
Select Performance Weed
The fin from the French manufacturer is also made from very robust G10 material. The leading edge is slightly curved, resulting in a slightly steeper angle of attack in the upper section. For this reason, the Performance Weed has the centre of effort further forward than other seagrass models, which results in above-average performance. The fin hardly breaks out even under the threat of force and allows the board to fly freely over the leeward edge even on the cross, and the turning ability remains at a higher level than that of many competitor models. The speed level is also passable, but only if there is not too much grass floating around in the water! The steeper angle of attack at the base also means that seaweed takes a little longer to shake off
- Available sizes: 29/31/33/35/37/40/43 cm
- Box systems: Power/Tuttle/ Deep Tuttle
- Material: G10
- Price: 199 Euro >> available here
Unifibre Weed Slasher Freeride
The base of the Weed Slasher has been moved forwards to keep the centre of effort of the fin as far forward as possible. On the water, the model scores with a lot of performance when planing; even with a less experienced riding style or if you put a lot of pressure on the tail, the current is stable at all times. On the cross, the fin can also be pressed exceptionally well, which is probably also due to the comparatively thick profile with which the Unifibre fin was equipped. On the other hand, it is obvious that it cannot reach the top speed of other models on fast space wind courses. All in all, however, the Weed Slasher offers good performance, especially in the lower and medium wind range, and reliably wipes off seaweed - all at a fair price.
- Available sizes: 28-40 cm (2 cm increments)
- Box systems: Power/Tuttle
- Material: G10
- Price: 119 Euro >> available here
Unifibre Lessacher Weed Blade
From the plane of fin pope Wolfgang Lessacher, the fin sits offset forwards on the base. The majority of the surface area is concentrated at the base and the fin tip is slim. The Weed Blade has an asymmetrical profile, which is slightly thinner than the Weed Slasher model. Even so, the fin helps freeride boards over the glide threshold and absorbs lateral pressure well. The lift of the fin on the cross is amazing, a free planing position can be maintained for an above-average length of time - even on performance-orientated freerace boards with straps mounted on the outside. The design also limits the turning radius less than is the case with other models. Due to the fin's good performance values, you can even choose a slightly shorter length.
- Available sizes: 24/28/32/36/40 cm
- Box systems: Power/Tuttle
- Material: G10
- Price: 139 Euro >> available here
