MM: Why the single fin?
DP: The single fin represents the perfect renunciation of
programmed, repetitious, and chaotic multi-fin surfing and a return to a
form of surfing that is as free and unscripted as real jazz.
Essentially a neutral surfboard design, the single fin responds to rider
input with far broader and crisper nuances of sensation than a
contemporary tri or multi-fin. Though the myth and old wives’ tale
claims they are ‘stiff’ handling surfboards, the inverse is true – they
are actually much looser than multi-fin surfboards but require real
ability and proper technique to generate Thruster-like speed in
low-voltage waves. I am thrilled that so many surfers are revisiting the
single-fin design now, but I hope that it is for the right reasons. It
would be disappointing to see this trend evaporate into a vogue or pose.
Today’s ultra-refined and streamlined shortboards have to be surfed
with one and only one kinetic ‘style’ or they will not go, and so all
too often on that equipment it feels like it is someone else surfing, as
if you are just shadowboxing along with the images you are hypnotized
into mimicking. On a properly designed single fin the difference is that
it feels like YOU are surfing.
Above quote is from a truly excellent interview Mike Machemer did with Dave Parmenter. The full text is on the
Pilgrim Surf & Supply site and is absolutely worth a read. That's T. Curren demonstrating some single fin jazz in the photo.
