Find out about the most popular FCS Fins NZ
If you’re a surfer in New Zealand, having the right fins can completely transform your surf. From construction to template, it all makes a difference. Whether you’re shredding the waves at Wainui Beach, Raglan, or Taranaki, choosing the right FCS fins for your board can boost speed, control, and overall performance. In this guide, we’ll break down the top 5 FCS fin sets every Kiwi surfer should try, with options available right here at Blitz Surf Shop.
Understanding FCS Fin Constructions
Before we dive into the top fin sets, it’s important to understand the different fin constructions. Each material changes the way the fin feels and performs in the water. This list starts form the lower price point and goes to the top price point. An easy rule of thumb to follow here is that as you go up in construction and price point the fins get more responsive i.e they do what you want them to do more quickly:
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GlassFlex (GF) – A lightweight, flexible, price point fin that offers smooth turns and forgiving performance. Ideal for beginners and all-round surfers looking for a balanced ride and low cost. Only available in a couple of options
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Neo Glass (NG) – A medium flex composite that offers excellent response while maintaining some flexibility at a greta price. Great for surfers wanting control without sacrificing flow and putea.
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Performance Core (PC) – Harder and stiffer, delivering maximum drive, speed, and response. Perfect for high-performance surfing and aggressive turns. Probably the most popular material for volume of sales
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Performance Core Carbon (PCC) – Combines PC with carbon fibers to give extra stiffness at the base while still allowing slight flex through the body and tip of the fin. Excellent for intermediate to advanced surfers wanting great response.
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Performance Glass (PG) – High-performance fiberglass with the most precise control and stability. Ideal for pro-level surfing in powerful waves. Rcently added to the FCS range in shortboard fins due to demand for ultimate performance
Knowing which construction suits your style and conditions is just as important as picking the right fin shape.
Now to the 5 most popular FCS Fin models
1. FCS II Performer Fin Set
Why it’s popular: The Performer is the go-to choice for most surfers thanks to its versatile, all-round design. It’s part of the Essential Series, making it perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. The Performer is an all round fin which provides a nice balance of drive and release to suit a wide range of surfing abilities and surf conditions. Available in the largest range of materials due to the volume of sales
Construction options: GlassFlex, Neo Glass, Performance Core and Performance Core Carbon.
Who it’s for: Surfers seeking a balanced fin set that works in small to medium waves, offering smooth turns and reliable drive.
Get it in NZ: Available in all constructions at Blitz Surf Shop.
2. FCS II Accelerator Fin Set
Why it’s popular: Known for its speed and performance, the Accelerator fin set is ideal for high-performance surfing in powerful waves. Its design focuses on drive and acceleration, helping you generate speed quickly out of turns. More drive than the Performer series for those wanting to push their turns harder in a range of conditions
Construction options: Neo Glass, PC, PCC.
Who it’s for: Intermediate to advanced surfers looking to push their boards harder in hollow or fast-breaking waves.
Get it in NZ: Find the Accelerator set at Blitz Surf Shop.
3. FCS II Mick Fanning Fin Set
Why it’s popular: Mick Fanning’s signature fins are a staple for Kiwi surfers who want speed, control, and versatility. Known for their smooth release and drive, these fins excel in a wide range of conditions. In the Carver family for long, drawn out, power turns. The most popular of FCS' Athlete series of fins
Construction options: Performance Glass PG (for those wanting to push things to their limits), PC (the most populat consruction of MF fins), Neo Carbon (for a lower price point, yet still good performance fin).
Who it’s for: Surfers aiming for high-performance surfing while maintaining control in critical sections.
Get it in NZ: Available now at Blitz Surf Shop.
4. FCS II Al Merrick Fin Set
Why it’s popular: Designed by world-renowned shaper Al Merrick, this fin set offers precise control and response. Perfect for surfers who want to combine speed with tight, aggressive turns. This is the most popular of all the FCS Shapers ranges of surfboard fins
Construction options: Performance Glass and Performance Core.
Who it’s for: Surfers tackling punchy beach breaks and hollow point waves.
Get it in NZ: Check out the Al Merrick fins at Blitz Surf Shop.
5. FCS II JS Fin Set
Why it’s popular: The JS fin set, designed by world champion JS Surfboards, offers excellent drive and stability while allowing radical turns. These fins are a trusted choice for high-performance surfboards.
Construction options: Performance Core Carbon.
Who it’s for: Surfers looking for aggressive performance fins that respond to every subtle movement.
Get it in NZ: Available at Blitz Surf Shop.
🏄 FCS Fin Construction Comparison
| Construction | Flex Pattern | Best For | Ideal Conditions | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GlassFlex (GF) | Moderate flex | Beginners & All-rounders | Small to medium waves | Lightweight, forgiving, cost-effective |
| Neo Glass (NG) | Medium flex | Intermediate surfers | Small to medium waves | Lightweight, responsive, eco-friendly |
| Neo Carbon (NC) | Spring-loaded flex | Surfers seeking speed | Small to medium waves | Lightweight with quick response |
| Performance Core (PC) | Balanced flex | All surfers | Versatile conditions | Lightweight with consistent flex |
| Performance Core Carbon (PCC) | Stiff base with controlled tip flex | Advanced surfers | High-speed, powerful waves | Enhanced base stiffness with carbon inserts |
| Performance Glass (PG) | Stiff base with responsive tip | Experienced surfers | Powerful, critical waves | Durable, traditional fiberglass feel |
Why Choose FCS Fins in New Zealand
FCS fins are engineered for performance and durability, and have the biggest range of fins available to us here in NZ, making them ideal for NZ’s diverse surf conditions—from small, playful beach breaks to big, punchy reef waves. The ease of removing the fins and changing for another set with FCS' patented system is amazing. Choosing the right fin set can:
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Improve board speed and drive
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Enhance turning response and control
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Suit your surfing style and wave conditions
All the fin sets listed here are available in multiple constructions at Blitz Surf Shop, making it easy to find the perfect match for your board and style.
Shop FCS Fins in NZ Today
Ready to upgrade your surfboard? Head over to Blitz Surf Shop and browse the full FCS fins range. Take advantage of our winter sale on selected FCS fins while stocks last!
