The fastest surfboard on the planet
So far, we consider the double wing quad fish the fastest surfboard design we have tried so far. It was designed as a logical derivation from the classic fish outline (no wings, twin keels).
This board is a contemporaneous interpretation of a fish, Manuel the shaper, under Mandala Label, describes it as an integrated design where everything works in harmony in order to create speed and maneuverability.
5'10''x20.25''x2.25'' Mandala, photo by Alexandro
5'11''x20.25''x2.25'' Mandala, photo by Nuno
The larger lead fins provide drive, while the raked trailer allows release providing drive without sacrificing maneuverability and responsiveness in hollower surf.
The wings are located where water trails off of the trailing edge of the leading fin. The swallowtail tips are located where water flows off of the trailing edge of the trailing fin.
The advantage of the double-wings over the classic fish template is that the wings bring the tail curve in with steps, from around 16" wide to an 8" swallowtail without sacrificing parallel effective edge. This allows a fusion between the typical fish speed to new approaches.
5'10''x20.25''x2.25'' Mandala, photo by Nuno
5'11''x20.25''x2.25'' Mandala, photo by Nuno
What surprises us is that the double wing quad has a lively feel, and it’s own will. That feeling has is origins in the “PendoFlex theorys” from Steve Pendarvis and George Greenough. These concepts are present in the fins and in the stringer.
Stringers can taper from 3/8"-1/4" in the nose to 3/32"-1/16" in the tail allowing the tail to flex through big turns. Tail rocker increases under pressure and allows you to make tighter turns, while stores energy, which is released when exiting turns.
To give strength to the whole idea, plywood and bamboo are the better choices. They are excellent material as far as fins go because they’re light, they float and they have an unbelievable flex pattern that stores and releases energy through turns.
5'10x20.25''x2.25'' Mandala, photo by Alexandro
5'11''x20.25''x2.25'' Mandala, photo by Nuno
If you want to know a bit more:
http://www.mandalacustomshapes.com
http://www.theswallowtailsociety.blogspot.com
http://www.101fins.com
http://surfermag.com/features/onlineexclusives/marlin-bacon-handson
http://www.johncherrywoodcraft.com
