Firewire Mashup Surfboard Fin Comparison: Fanning, Toledo, MR, Taylor Knox

[@AfterWorkFishClub]

It blows my mind that more people haven’t done reviews on the NVS fins. I put these in my daily driver and even my mid length and they make everything better

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Agreed. I want to try the NVS Aipa Sequencer quads. They look super interesting.

[@splocal]

This was a great review! I just picked up a mashup. I’ve been running the twin+1’s on a few other boards and love that setup. I’ve been tempted to pick up the NKV Taylor Knox fins you reviewed even before I had the mashup. You convinced me I need this combo now, thanks!

[@atanjacket]

I live on the east coast of the US and would more than likely be surfing in Rhode Island, where the waves are quite small most of the time. Your reviews of this board have allowed me to figure out which board I want for small surf.

[@thestow35]

great analysis! - and awesome video content I mostly surf quads, but am starting to uncover (for myself) the joy of MT twins + stabiliser

[@roderickcabahug3567]

I picked up a set of Mick Fannings version of Taylors fins...basically same. Awesome set, so fast. Perfect with the Mashup. Thanks for the review.

[@stewartg5909]

The NV's looked super fast and awesome for shooting down the line but I think the MR set looked more fluid to turn.

[@alang253]

I've slowly replaced all my fins with NVS- they are just too good. Now I want to order a set of the Knox's lol

[@surfnvs]

🙌

[@rafamellinsosurfe402]

Thanks a lot for that review! I Still haven't found the right fin set for this board. Tried it with a bunch - including AM 2+1 - and they all work, but still feel too loose and skatey most of the time. So far, the Am2 Large and Carver Mediums seem to work best for me. (5'5 / 1m68 - 146pounds - 67kgs) Looking for something that has the pivot for beachbreaks, but with still some hold. Anyway, the board is super fast, draws nice long lines, but is tricky to put it on rail. Gotta give it a few more tests....

[@paulisexpensive]

Thanks Thomye, this is so good. Showing the different fins and explaining how they felt and why. Amazing. Im going to send this to my friend Mani (he will love this, big time!)

[@eatsurfsleeprepeat5485]

Im really stoked you came to the same conclusion as me. I’ve been riding my mashup for exactly 1 year now and Im so stoked on that board and the helium tech that I use it more than often. Im 77kg and riding the 5’7 with the Mick Fanning FCs2 Twins + 1 which are a carbon copy of the Taylor NVS twins + 1 and based off the FCS2 H4 fin template I think. Ive also tried the mash up in larger waves with the FCS2 H4 thrusters / large and they work well in head to over head powerful waves, but they drag too much in smaller weaker stuff so its the MF 2+1 for me in most conditions. Great review, you’re absolutely ripping. Incidentally Ive done my own review on the MFs and H4s on my channel but I dont have any surfing footage unfortunately. 🤙🏻

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Right on. I will check it out. Yeah those fins are magic. I think the only difference between the Knox and the fanny is how thick and heavy they are. The knox are thinner so likely it has a fraction less drag but the fannings I believe are much lighter in weight.

[@eatsurfsleeprepeat5485]

@@ThomyeSurfs when I say review its more just me gushing over how good those fins are and I also do a side by side comparison on the MRs. I love your technical breakdowns of boards, fins and even manoeuvres. Its very good and easy to understand. I think in either this vid or the adjustable twin fins vid you talk about body extension of the take off and I found that interesting and hadnt picked up until then that I do the same. Great stuff, no pressure but keep it coming 🤙🏻

[@DavidJones-yl9kk]

@@ThomyeSurfs do you know which fin is stiffer. I am 5’10 and 200 lbs so I need a fin that I can really push. I have always been a powerful rail to rail surfer even when I was 180 lbs before I got sick and gained this weight. I have been looking at bigger fins like the Aipa Ahi Hook, Orca, TC Twin and the Asher Pacey 5.79. But know you two have me really considering the MF and Taylor Knox fins. Unfortunately l, I surf mushy wind swell a lot, mixed in with punchy beach break.

[@eddewes8409]

Excellent analysis again looks like the Mashup is a go

[@migsy3302]

Such a good review brother! Much love from 🇦🇺👍🏼 YEEEEWWWWW!!!!!🤙🏼

[@petewebb5149]

Be interested to see how you go with a set of AMT's (but with a more upright trailer fin than comes with them) for huge drive but with release. I don't like the MR's myself as they always feel sticky off the top with their wider tips.

[@alang253]

@thomyesurfs checking to see if you've surfed the Taylor Knox + stabilizer in punchier/bigger surf? I find that bigger uprights (5.3"-5.5" in height and base) are fun in small waves but in punchier/bigger head high+ the board starts to get tracky and harder to put on rail. Lots of lift and too much speed. Wondering if the Knox works in bigger surf or if you think going down in fin area will help (I'm same weight as you)

[@ThomyeSurfs]

I have not surfed it in bigger punchier waves, mostly cuz I use the knox on my Mashup primarily. I consider the Mashup a small wave baord. I just got hold of a futures set of the knox and the next decent swell that rolls through, if I get a chance, I'll try them in my frk+. But you are right, as you get going fast, the bigger fins then to want to keep going fast and straight. I mentioned that a little in the video, i think I said it was great down the line, fastest fins. Also, as a comparison, I used to run the Machado twin + trailer on my spitfire years ago. when I went to the pool in texas, BSR back in 2019, those fins didn't work in the advanced setting. tracky and sticky like you mention. but i think those were more raked. Anyways, I'll definitely give it a go when it gets bigger.

[@alang253]

@@ThomyeSurfs ah ok I will just try going down in fin size, maybe T1 or CF especial twin. sucks cause days like yesterday on the waist high waves the bigger fins felt great, but the sets would come through and it would feel sticky and too fast on the head high waves

[@DrJoshman]

Cool vid! Any preference for fin set up backside? Like 2 +1 vs quad? Does anyone surf twins on their backhand, I find it so rare in video footage...

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Fin preference backhand for me is the quad, then thruster or 2+1, then lastly, Twin. Due to the positioning of your heels on a backside bottom turn, twin become super stiff depending on the fins. Clear example is my review of the Too Fish surfing asym with 2 different sets of fins. I used Keel on the toe side and a more upright on the heel side. Anyways, quad seem to be the most forgiving on the backhand and easiest to control yet have lots of drive. If you are super heavy on your back foot, then likely a thruster.

[@KristianPage]

Great vid bro. Very helpful.

[@emisurfchannel2280]

I have 2 identical surfboards one with 3 fins one with 4 fins, I feel the difference when the wave gets steep, the 3 fins suits me better. So i love your edit! very interesting🙂

[@chucks222]

Great video and review! I’m consistently surprised how big of a difference fins make for board performance. Might have just been the waves, but wow those MR turns looked good. NVS might be better for speed and airs. The MR waves and turns though looked awesome, acceleration off the bottom and release and spray at the top

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Yeah, took me a while to realize. I used to buy fins based on color and looks but after almost selling my GoFish thinking I hated it, and then trying a different set of fins, it opened my eyes to buying a variety of fins. a lot of my early fins are all the same shape, roughly, just different look. Now I know better and understand a tad more. :) Agree with you 100%.

[@ODL957]

Great review

[@dynodin81]

I bought the NVS Taylor Knox Twin and what caught me by surprise was how heavy those fins are compared to my other T1 twin fin. Going to give them another try but I didn't like how heavy it made my board feel - especially in the tail area.

[@havanejp]

How did it feel in the surf?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

They are heavier for sure. I had that initial reaction as well but after surfing them, I was pretty much sold. I love them in the Mashup. I liked them in my hypto krypto as well.

[@juanchaxx]

great videos man! hey I was wondering... have you ever tried riding your Seaside as a twin with either the NVS Taylor Knox or the Convertible Kraken? I feel the Taylor Knox might call for the use of 2 nubsters on the rear so the tail doesn't become uncontrollably loose due to the front fin placement, and the Kraken could be a total game changer --- would love me a Taylor Knox twin that has the Kraken's base offset .

[@ThomyeSurfs]

interesting, offset Knox would be cool. I know they do one offs. you should contact NVS. Seriously cool guys. I haven't tried the offset Krakens on the Seaside yet. I want to try the offset Ono's on the Seaside and turn it into a legit keel twin. that would be interesting as well. I'll have to measure the Seaside fin layout to the Too Fish and see how different it is.

[@mikeuptegrove]

Doesn’t Mick have an identical 2+t outline as the Knox fin? I was just eyeing the Knox fin myself. I have the same MRs and didn’t like them. On my 5’6 EPS RNF96 the depth was creating too much drag. Board wouldn’t move. I switched them out for a pair of Noel Salas large base medium depth neutrals and kept in the MR baby t, it went like a charm. Did you get extra, late, hold in turns with that swoop tip on the Knox? I ride a super upright captain fin special 2+ t and sometimes if I push too hard in a turn they’ll lose traction and slip out a bit mid way through a wrap. I remember when I used to long board, I rode a big swoop fin that sorta resembled the Knox fin, and I could crank a turn and last minute that tip would bite, flex, and give me stability and rebound my wrap. I loved that feeling.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Yes. At the end of my bottom turn there seems to be extra drive. It's super fast. As for mick, his fins look similar. The nvs Knox came out a while before.

[@mikeuptegrove]

@@ThomyeSurfs is that right. Mick copied Knox huh. The H4 looks similar too. I’m eyeing the Knox fin, want to see how it runs on an RNF96.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@mikeuptegrove i would not say that Mick copied anyone. I'm not sure that how much mick get involved other than the post marketing. I think Mick and and Taylor are good friends. But you are right, the H4's look very similar so the knox could have gotten the idea from it and to be honest, i'm not sure if the foils are similar. The Apex fins from nvs are super thin. All the Apex fins are thin. Anyways, for the most part, those have tried it love it. I love mind and have not removed them from my Mashup which btw looks like the RNF 96 to me. LOL The only think I do wish is that NVS had different Stabilizer options. wider for more drive on slower softer days.

[@mikeuptegrove]

@@ThomyeSurfs I noticed that too. The RNF96 outline looks like mashup. My RNF96 is best board I’ve ever owned. Super versatile. I think I just need a little bit more rake on my 2+ t setup. I loose a bit of hold in turns about half way through them. It’s like you can push it at all. Great off the top though.

[@jose2x784]

Hi, @mikeuptegrove I just order an rnf96. can you elaborate what fins worked best for you? and did you try the knox already? which noel salas fins did you used? I couldn't understand if you used his thruster sides with a stabiliser? thanks.

[@mattsmith464]

Hi Thomye. Super useful video, thanks. Sort of related question. Have you tried the NVS Kestrel split keels in the Seaside? Similar template but I really prefer the NVS to the Machados. I think it's the stiffer glass and thinner foil than the Futures Machado set (the honeycomb Futures feel spongy and less in control). But maybe the FCS2 Machados are different in the glass...

[@ThomyeSurfs]

yes, I have set of the Kestrels, 2 sets in fact. One in my Seaside and another in my Seaside & Beyond. I prefer nvs for most of my future fin boxes. I can't say I really feel too much of a different between my machados and Kestrels. I will say the the nvs fins are a much better value. Also, as you mentioned, they are thinner, so they whistle a bit. In terms of performance, to small of a difference so hard to say if its the waves or the fins. My favorite fins right now are the Knox twins by nvs which are also apex. For me, the only value that fcs2 fins offer is the convenience of not needing a tool. But even then, NVS now has the click tabs which makes the install a one screw process. Anyways, Kestrels are a thumbs up for me, so are the Knox and the Marlins. I'm also interested in trying the Aipa quad hybrid set. that seems really interesting.

[@mattsmith464]

@@ThomyeSurfs thanks for the feedback. Never heard them whistle so I must not be going fast enough ha. Yeah, the Knox twins look interesting. How do you think think they go in a standard thruster box setup compared to a board designed as a twin + trailer? Curious to give them a try in a board I've got with a 5 box setup but not sure if it would work out. But you look great on the Mashup with them.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@mattsmith464 the mashup is actually set up as as thruster. The knox go great in the Mashup and the Hypto and both are thruster setups. Having said that, I should try them in my Modern 2 which is designed for twins and see if they go as good. Good video idea. :) thanks for that. Been hard to post process lately, all Christmas my daughter has been home from school she has been occupying the room. She's gone now so hopefully I can get some videos out soon.

[@mattsmith464]

@@ThomyeSurfs no worries, love your videos but definitely take some time to relax with the family (or surf). Thanks for the insight on the fins. I need to make the tragic decision to blow money on fins for a board I'm hoping to like more or save the cash for another board. I see Mr Machado has released an updated quad keel set... But not on the Futures web site. The rears look suspiciously like the NVS kestrel... I know they do collabs but maybe this is a stealth one...actually I'm dumb they are for sale on the Firewire site.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@mattsmith464 i guess FW is trying to get into fins. I heard from a rep that FW will not be making boards with fcs2 plugs moving forward. apparently, the fcs2 plugs cost money (fcs charges FW to have them on their boards) where as the futures plugs, due to expired patents, can be made by third party. I think this is why Rob, Kelly, moved their fins over. Likely, Dan Mann will soon move his as well.

[@mikedemaster5301]

Thanks for the review.

[@gilliamm.5732]

Thanks!

[@ofireldari1913]

Ripping bro! Awesome video, very informative. Can you please mention your bodyweight back than and surfboard size? I'm thinking about buying one

[@ThomyeSurfs]

the board is 5'4" @27.1L. I am 5'8" tall and weigh(ed) 145 lbs.

[@rjcplus9]

6:44 HELP! 😂 i’ve been considering buying the SP2 5’2-but then i’m seeing this old fin review of the Mashup (i have the 5’6), and how you’re catching and ripping still on these tiny waves (see 6:44)! 🤯🤯🤯🤯 Did you ever buy the SP2 5’2 after demo’ing it? Is it even worth owning one if the Mashup is catching and flying 🚀 on lumps like this? Can the SP2 catch waves any smaller?!?! 🔬🔬🔬🔬🔬 and if the waves are THAT small is it even worth going out?!? main Q: clearly the MU can catch micro waves-what makes adding a SP2 worth the money and storage space? 🙏🏼 thanks in advance 엄청 많이!🫶🏼

[@rjcplus9]

i’m sure you know the struggle: “👼🏻 save money” vs “🐍 new board smell 🍎” ⚖️ 😅

[@ThomyeSurfs]

it is only worth it if you guys them at relative size and not volume. For instance, I ride the 5'4 Mashup @ 27.1L and I weigh 145, at the time of filming I may have been lighter, 140. The SP2 that I tested was 31L. I didn't buy the SP2 mainly for 2 reasons: First, I have the twice baked. Second, the 5'2 was just a tad too big. I would have wanted something like a 5'1 at 30 or 29. In your case, if you have a 5'6 Mashup, 30.1L, getting a 5'2 SP2 would only get you .9L extra, likely not noticeable. You do however get a lot more width which does help with grovel. If you have a strong paddle and you want something shorter and skatey, it would be worth it. If you want grovel mainly, the mashup at 5'6 might grovel better than the SP2 at 5'2 already so not worth it. I don't know your bio so hard to say but if you did get the SP2, it should be 5'4. Ideally a 5'3 would have been perfect but they don't make one. Surfing the SP2 at 1 to 2 L more than your normal daily is the way to go. it helps you catch more waves but you do lose a bit of performance but on those really small days, not that big of a deal. Hope this helps, sometimes it gets confusing sizing boards. I still have issues with it especially when they skip sizes. Sometimes it works out in my favor and other times, it doesn't. :(

[@tannerjames09]

If you had to choose one board between a seaside and the mashup for your secret spot which would you choose? I'm trying to decide.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Dude that is a killer question. It's like asking me to pick one of my daughters as my favorite. 😞. I will do a side-by-side surf on the same day and let everyone decide because I cannot.

[@gregsimmons5708]

I have been using the FCS11 Accelerators on my 5'6" Mashup and it flys! I used a Firewire fin also and it was fine, but the Accelerators are so noticeable. One time I changed the fins out to the Accelerators mid session and people watching me made the comment that my surfing looked faster. I do notice that when I really try to bury a rail on a cutback, they can feel a little "skippy" in the apex of the turn. Just FYI

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Interesting. I have a set, I'll have to give it a go. Thanks brotha for the feedback.

[@katherinenguyen2952]

Hey Thomye...overall fun factor for most general conditions...would you go glazer, mashup or sunday?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Very tough question. I guess it depends on your skill level and what you're looking for. But at my skill level, I would probably go with my mashup. But that is based on your question of most conditions. If you specifically said small or or bigger and soft then I would probably go with the Sunday. The glazer was fun, but I feel like I didn't sample enough fin sets. Looking back I probably should have tested a keel or the Rob Machado kill thrusters. It just felt a little loose. Now having said that that board is very inexpensive right now because it is being discontinued. So from a cost perspective it is cheap enough just to have in your quiver.

[@rodneyevans4876]

I think fins aren't something people talk about enough. Fins are able to completely change a board in feeling as well as performance.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Agreed

[@TH-nc1gj]

Looking good

[@matthewmatuszak9034]

6:50 you're getting so close to stomping that air rev

[@ThomyeSurfs]

i know, so close. I know what my issue is, if you watch it, you see my head still looking down the line vs rotated and spotting the landing. I am going to work on that my next few sessions. :) wish me luck and no injuries. lol

[@Mr63eh]

Epic surfing thomye🤟🤟🤟

[@stephenmallaband3289]

Out of interest, what size matchup are you riding, and what’s your height, weight and usual board literate? Many thanks

[@ThomyeSurfs]

I'm 5'8 and weight 145lbs. I'm on the 5'4 Mashup which I think is 27.2L. My normal performance board would be around 25.5L for my paddle strength. I could go lower but getting too old to try that hard. LOL Lately all my boards have been between the 26L and 29L range

[@Tiaguini78]

Really liked your reviews, I am sure the average intermediate surfer connects with your vision, and your editing as gotten better, your voice over the surfing, explaining how you feel about the boards/fins has improved. Very nice air attempts, by the way! I think your edits would benefit from some surfing backside, or surfing some other spot. I know we all look better surfing frontside, but I have seen you hit the lip backside and some some good carves on the rights. Question: now that your surfed the Mashup fore quite a few months (and fins), if you only could have one board, as a groveller, what would you have: the Seaside or the Mashup? thanks

[@ThomyeSurfs]

if you told me to choose right now, it would be the mashup. i don't think it scales as well into better punchier waves but I think having the 5 fin setup is more versatile in the type of waves I tend to surf. You are right though about my leftitus. when I had my El Tomo, i was going right a lot because it was so good at going right but for some reason I struggle with other boards. I think I lean to much but not sure how to fix that. I will try and figure that out for sure. :)

[@Tiaguini78]

@@ThomyeSurfs Thank you. Hope you guys have a great summer of waves

[@martinvelezmoro7250]

Great review , don’t know if I enjoyed the 2 + 1 , have the nvs aipa ahi twin with stabilizer and was to loose for me , Worst in rights , then I try the mashup as quad endorfins and I love it so fast and I can surf much better on rights , and I need all the help I can get too , I’m not that good on my back hand , but as a quad I love it , got the same board 5’4” ,

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Yeah, the aipas look a little narrow. Definitely agree quad is best backhand

[@martinvelezmoro7250]

@@ThomyeSurfs yes , and lefts too , feel more in control , didn’t ride it as a thruster yet

[@RBNK157]

What size of waves do you think it’s best for and what size you would prefer another board?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

The Mashup is 1 to 5 feet waves. The 2 plus 1 setup works best that size. On the top end of that scale, I think i would just want slightly smaller side fins but still a 2 +1. as it gets bigger, you don't need to make as much of your own speed. rather, just control the speed the wave gives you.

[@RBNK157]

@@ThomyeSurfs thank you! Since I’m not at your level i feel like it’s very loose for me maybe I should try AM template large?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@RBNK157 AM is good, the Mick Fannings are good, I also like the Naked Viking Dan Mann. They are very large fins and can tighten up a board well. I have a set of the Dan Manns but they are in single tab (futures) but my mashup is fcs2. I also called Naked Viking up and asked if they would consider making a set of different size trailers. I think a slightly bigger trailer would tighten up the board too.

[@Toades8513]

Tomo Revo is sick board, grabbed it soon as it came out. Maybe you can add to list :)

[@ThomyeSurfs]

yeah, looks sick. they seem to be pumping them out over there at Firewire Factory.

[@artichokeantigua]

Good stuff Thomye! I'm a similar height and weight as you, and I'm curious if you have a go-to twin + trailer for when the waves turn on? I'm new to twins and have defaulted to thrusters in the past when it gets good. As a smallish guy I wonder if going with a smaller fin than the MRs and more pivoty is the call.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

I think there are a couple of factors. when waves are weak (small and soft) I like bigger fins. But, when the board is big, I also like smaller fins. some time ago, I used to have a 5'8 spitfire which was 31 L and about 20" wide. it was way too big for me but at bolsa using the machado twins + stabilizer, it was fantastic. I took it to Waco thinking it would be the best board since it was my daily driver but i figured out really quick that the fins were way too big for that big a board in that fast a wave. Having said that, the MR's were my goto but now it is the Naked Viking Taylor Knox. not sure I need any more pivot. but if i need it, maybe I would take the stabilizer out vs going with smaller fins. depends on waves though. if it got super punchy, then maybe quads to really make it turn on a dime.

[@kristianszeto6424]

Awesome review and super informative as always! I’m riding it as a large quad KS1’s, but they are a little too sticky for my liking. Would love to try one of these would you choose the NV over the MR?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Yes for smaller or softer waves. I have yet to test them in punchy waves. NVS also carries a twin that is almost the shape of the MRs. Save yourself $30 or so dollars

[@surfnvs]

Our Nautilus twin is similar to the MR's: www.surfnvs.com/collections/apex-twins/products/nautilus-twin-stabilizer-apex

[@trestlesrocks]

Have you tried Rob’s 2+1 in the mashup?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

no I have not. But I would imagine it would go decent, maybe a tad tighter off the tail since the rear fins is so big. My guess it would be somewhere in the middle of a 2+1 and a thruster but closer to a 2+1

[@trestlesrocks]

@@ThomyeSurfs I just picked up a 5’8” Mashup as a better wave compliment to my 5’6” Cado that I’ve been enjoying so much. Haven’t gotten the Mashup in the water yet, but I’m thinking Rob’s 2+1 is where I’ll start as a baseline. Hopefully it’s as good as the Cado for me. 🤞 Keep up the good work. You’re an excellent resource and I enjoy your surfing as well. 🤙

[@shannonyoung3465]

I have everyone of those fin’s. (My Fanning’s are Medium’s) I prefer medium fin’s to large. Have the Machado 2+1’s in my 5’3 Baked Potato. The MR 2+1’s in my 5’5 Chumlee. NVS Taylor Knox 2+1’s in my 5’8 CI Neckbeard 2 board. Captain Fin CF-TWIN es 2+1 in my 5’8 (80’s Retro) Wave Tools board. Knock Off MR 2+1’s in my 5’9 Stu Sharpe Town & Country SINR board. Also want to try the Noel Salas 2+1’s The Aipa 2+1’s & the T&C (Pang) 2+1’s!!! I need more board’s! Lol 😂

[@ThomyeSurfs]

LOL. your last bit was too funny. I laugh at myself too because they made these removeable fins to be able to move from one board to another and yet, I too have way too many fins and tend to set it and forget it. In fact, I have 3 sets of machado seasides/nvs so that I don't have to move them from seaside to seasdie and beyond. LOL

[@shannonyoung3465]

@@ThomyeSurfs It’s crazy how different fin’s can bury a board or bring it to life! When I find fin’s that make a board come to life, I never take them out!

[@g35pm]

Did you test the MF Neo Carbon large or the MF Large in Perf Core? I'm of similar weight and height to you and the Neo Carbons feel a like they have a little too much flex and a bit sticky. Speedy yes, but I guess I use the Perf Core fins more and the response is quicker to me. I like the Toledos Medium in everyday shortboards as i'm trying to surf the pocket more, but you make a good point about them not really matching the Mashup.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

i was using the neo carbons. I like the neo's for smaller waves where you can flex them and have them spring back to help with speed. I have the PC as well but use them in more traditional performance boards which I don't surf anymore. haha I may need to buy one just so my Fanning PC fins have a home. :(

[@BryanBrohare]

Thomye great video! This helped me go with the NVS since I live in Florida and need all the speed. What trailer stabalizer fin did you end up buying? Only thing I'm finding as a single set right now is the "Ho Stevie" but I'm sure there's others out there you'd recommend? Thanks!

[@ThomyeSurfs]

I went with the NVS stabilizer. I also have the MR but that one is part of another set. NVS sells them as singles.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

i just looked at the ho stevie ones, don't do the nubs. you will need a tad more hold than that. the nubs are good for filling in a tad more hold on a quad. they don't really work well for thrusters. They do work well if you are riding a 2+1 specific though since the side front fins are further back. Hope that makes sense.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

www.surfnvs.com/collections/apex-twins/products/stabilizer-apex

[@BryanBrohare]

@@ThomyeSurfs just ordered the apex stabalizer, thanks! Didn't realize how difficult it was to find a stabalizer fin! You should add your product links to the videos and get referral links ;-)

[@tyronemones9557]

Awesome fin comparison review🤙🏽🤙🏽 how was the top to bottom pocket surfing of the Taylor Knox compared to the MRs? Might have to snag these nvs now. Lol

[@ThomyeSurfs]

I think it was the same if not better than the MR since I felt like i had more speed to work with. around the 6:56 mark, I do this top turn where my fins come completely out. It was because i got some much bottom turn projection. I think the most important aspect of a groveler is speed and the board is already fast given wave speed but when the wave lacks speed, the fins add so much to that equation. I need to try the nvs in other boards to see how versatile it is. Yew!!!

[@tyronemones9557]

Done. Ordered!’🤙🏽Thanks for the rec Thomye. I’m addicted to speed and I love twin + trailers. I have the nvs Dan manns 5 fin too and they go with anything 🔥! You’re so close to landing that air reverse🔥🔥🔥🙌🏽

[@tyronemones9557]

Thomye, you were spot on with the nvs Taylor Knox fins. The speed is insane but pivots on a dime and holds through turns. I like them so much that I have both fcs2 and future tabs now and been using them exclusively on everything even my thruster boards. Mahalo for the recommendation 🤙🏽

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@tyronemones9557right on. yeah. I need to get the future set for my other boards

[@mikedemaster6751]

I'm getting ready to purchase 2+1. Do you still like the NVS over MR for the mashup? Thanks

[@ThomyeSurfs]

For the mashup definitely. It’s a subtle difference but faster. But you save money. 😊

[@mikedemaster6751]

@@ThomyeSurfs Thanks Thomye

[@eatsurfsleeprepeat5485]

Would be good to know your weight and board dims

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Yeah I put them in some videos but then forget to in others. I started putting it in the description in my recent videos just to be consistent. But I'm 5'8 and weigh 145. The mashup is 54 and 27.1 L.

[@jose2x784]

Do you think the taylor knox fins would be faster in any hybrid shaped board? For example rnf96

[@ThomyeSurfs]

the RNF96 to me, looks a lot like the Mashup so I'd have to imagine yes. Hard to really say for sure unless someone tests them side by side. But, by visual comparison, I'd say yes. I have been trying to get hold of an RNF96 but haven't had any luck. :(

[@jose2x784]

@@ThomyeSurfs thanks for the quick reply! Rnf96 review would be amazing, throw in a fin comparison as well ❤️

[@catinthehat8412]

I'd love to get a set of nvf but I live in western Australia and they would cost double the price

[@ThomyeSurfs]

yeah. hopefully they start distributing soon. They are definitely up coming.

[@billwill2150]

Did you have any problem getting those NVS fins into your fin boxes ? I had to get fcs fin plugs for mine which I’m not super confident how well they will work but we will see.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

no issues getting the fins in. I personally prefer the fcs base and now that NVS has those click ins, it's just 1 screw and you are good to go.

[@kenkohncke7929]

Did you use a trailer with the NV's or strictly twin?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Trailers. Although I feel like the NVS might do well without because of the wider base and hatchet tip.

[@zuma3334]

Hi Thomye, Surfin well my friend. Question, twice baked or mash up for grovel? I have a baked potato that I still love and ride but thinking of updating my groveler. Can they compare or is the mashup a step up from the twice/baker potato? Thank you

[@ThomyeSurfs]

The mashup is a definite step up from the BP and/or Twice. So, if you are looking for the same type of board as the BP, go with the twice. If you are looking for slightly more rail to rail performance, Mashup.

[@zuma3334]

Hey thanks friend. I have been surfing since 1982 or somethin like that. I just love that we have so many options now and your type of services as well. I hope to see you in the water one day so I can personally thank you

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@zuma3334 thanks brother, cheers. hope do we bump into each other.

[@10SNE1]

Have you tried the NVS Nautilus twin, which is the MR template?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

No, I don't own the Nautilus because I have the MR's. I probably should get it in single tab for my futures boards. I do like the MRs but since I own them never thought to get the Nautilus.

[@10SNE1]

I think you might like them better because of the superior construction over FCS. I use them with the Knox trailer and works great for me. I’m also interested in trying the medium NVS Rusty twin with Knox trailer, which is basically the same setup as the FW Machado twin+1.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@10SNE1 I'll definitely take a look. Yeah, i've pretty much moved all my futures fin quiver over to NVS cuz of the G10 glass. I only had a couple futures options before so it made sense. As for FCS2 and FCS, I have so many already, hard to justify the spend. I need to start selling my old FCS 1's before the fcs2 patent runs out. LOL

[@Carlosferreira1983]

I want to buy a set of NVS fins but there are so many, could you send a link to the ones you actually tried (also a link for the 2+1) Many thanks

[@ThomyeSurfs]

These are the Taylor Knox 2+1's www.surfnvs.com/collections/apex-series/products/taylor-knox-twin-apex for quads I have tried 3 and they are all good in different situations and different boards: But all around, the Rustys are good and for a fish, something like the Seasides, the Kestrel Quads. www.surfnvs.com/collections/apex-quad/products/rusty-quad-m-l-apex-1 www.surfnvs.com/collections/apex-quad/products/kestrel-quad and for Thrusters, I like the Dan Manns: www.surfnvs.com/collections/apex-thrusters/products/mannkine-m-l-apex

[@ThomyeSurfs]

in the video they are Mick Fanning by fcs: www.surffcs.com/products/fcs-ii-mick-fanning-tri-fins?_pos=1&_sid=b13cbf381&_ss=r Toledos by fcs: www.surffcs.com/collections/athlete-series/products/fcs-ii-filipe-toledo-tri-fins?variant=39517562535997 and the MR's by fcs: www.surffcs.com/collections/twins/products/fcs-ii-mark-richards-twin-stabiliser-fins?variant=7411514736701

[@Carlosferreira1983]

How to sponsor the channel?

[@billgates9996]

Have you tried any new fins on it since or is t knox still your jam?I was wondering if a pure twin fin set worked too.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

I haven't tried any other fins. Knox for sure is my favorite so far. I got stuck on the Sharpeye FT for a bit and now got my hands on the Revo and FRK+. Just waiting on semi decent surf now. Once I'm done with those, I'll go back to the Mashup. I miss riding it. Also, the surf has really sucked around here. There is only like once place breaking and everyone and their mothers are out there. Been avoiding those spots.

[@ETYSURF]

I think you were getting the need for speed with the faster fins and you were running away. When you surfed the slower fins your top to bottom surfing looked on point but I suppose that’s an opinion of what style is better looking to the individual

[@ThomyeSurfs]

I grew up in closeouts so surfing the pocket is harder for me but when the pace is right, I do like it more than down the line surfing for sure. I want to test the NVS TK's at trestles soon. that would be a good test.

[@ETYSURF]

@@ThomyeSurfs for sure!!

[@rctrix9063]

So after watching lots of reviews of this board I bought one. I can't agree with much in this video. I will go through some different fin combinations but so far it's a NAAA.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

what size did you get? I found that most people love it but I did talk to 2 guys that didn't but in both their cases, they bought it too big. One of the guys ended up getting it smaller and ended up liking it much better. Let me know, just curious to see if there is a pattern. But for sure, not all boards are for all people.

[@rctrix9063]

@@ThomyeSurfs This is my future self and after trying this board as a twiny I'd say it's a twin-fin only design. As a thruster, I still maintain it's horrible.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@RCTrix 2+1 or straight twin? I am going to try it as a straight twin using these nvs convertible fins.

[@rctrix9063]

@@ThomyeSurfs Ok there's a vlog topic. I'll what for it.👍

[@surfininmy40s]

So 2 plus 1 over quad on this board?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

yeah, for me certainly. Although it's personal preference because I noticed that based on having traded boards, traded fins, etc. everyone seems to have a different take on what they like. In terms of 2+1, i feel it has the best push back aka drive when I'm doing down the line. When I step back to do a maneuver, I am not the type to step all the way back so just getting behind the 2 big fins allows me then to get the looseness I need. But the board doesn't feel like it is slipping or dead. When I surf thrusters, i get this dead feeling when pushing. ultimately, it depends on what feeling you like and where you are stepping to get that feeling. My buddy likes his boards to much looser and sunk in the water. I sort of like being on top.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Also, i'll shoot you a dm on insta.

[@surfininmy40s]

@@ThomyeSurfs always appreciate your feed back. I will give 2 plus 1 a try

[@NCsurfer607]

Have u tried the MRS in the dominator 2.0?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

I don't think so. If I am remembering correctly, I think the D2 was futures and my MR fins are FCS. but it probably would have been a good combo though.

[@raybert148]

Is this bolsa chica?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

most of it was Bolsa, some in HB, but only a few.

[@kingsofmayhem]

So just curious if you have surfed the NV fins in any other waves since this vid. Are they as easy to turn and as smooth as the MR but more drivey?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

Yes, I have been surfing it in the Hypto Krypto. so the wide base makes it great for generating quick speed on the low end. Meaning when you pop up and you don't have a lot of speed, it can quickly get you speed if you know how to use them, almost magically. I think a good word is acceleration. it accelerates well. They aren't sticky or slow, they carve amazing on the hypto. They carve good on the Mashup. The mashup has some design feature that don't help you carve, the board carves but for someone like me that is learning to transition certain turns and maneuvers into muscle memory, it is not as smooth. I hope that makes sense but in the HK, amazing. One thing to note, when I surfed the NVS on the mashup, I realized that it is so quick to accelerate that I don't stay in the pocket as much, I just see down the line and see the end sections. makes me want to air or bash it. It does surf the pocket very well like the MR and in fact, can't tell much of a difference for top to bottom, there isn't a ton of speed with this type of surfing to begin with. anyways, the NVS feels like it can get me places so now, I find myself pushing my timing. Like section that seem to late on other fins, I just try it and throw my board up and often, it makes it. I'm going to try it in my sharpeye Modern 2 next. :) that would be a great test since that board is actually designed to be a 2+1 while the mashup and HK are both thrusters. I'll do a video of the fin in the three boards so that I can have a well rounded opinion of it. right now, I love the speed so much, I have been fixated on it.

[@kingsofmayhem]

@@ThomyeSurfs Right on, appreciate the breakdown. They seem to be pretty versatile. Surfing mostly beach break waves I'm used to just pumping down the line and getting in a quick wrap or a couple snaps. I need the speed haha...!! Looking forward to your next review...mahalo

[@DavidJones-yl9kk]

How well do the NVS fins fit into the FCS II boxes?

[@ThomyeSurfs]

they fit very well, tight. I grease mine up a bit with wax or nose grease or sunscreen. The click tabs are cools cuz the front slots in so you only need 1 screw for the back. 1 screw is similar then to a futures fin.

[@DavidJones-yl9kk]

@@ThomyeSurfs thanks that helps a lot. Are the Taylor Knox fins stiffer than the MF Twins? And if so are they significantly faster? Thanks

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@DavidJones-yl9kk I've never tried the MF Twins. The only thing I can say for certain is that the MF Twins are much lighter in weight. The Apex series fins by NVS are made thinner but they are heavier. The thinner fin makes is a tad more hydrodynamic and although stiffer by nature, the design of the thinner foil makes them likely about the same, in terms of flex although Im' thinking there is more flex at the tip of the NVS and less flex at the mid and base. I would say if you like lighter weight fins, go MF. If you want to save at little money, you can't go wrong with the Knox. It is my go to for the Mashup for sure. I think the only time I wouldn't use it is when the waves get bigger and super punchy. then I personally would go back to my Toledo Medium thrusters.

[@DavidJones-yl9kk]

@@ThomyeSurfs thanks for the info. I am trying to decide between the Pang TC Twins from FCS and the MF Twin Fins.

[@ThomyeSurfs]

@@DavidJones-yl9kk I've not tried the pangs. the MF twins are very similar to the nvs knox and those I love. If it for the mashup, I would say MF between those two.