Tail Shapes

The shape of your tail is by far the most recognizable feature of a surfboard design. Although the shapes and functions of tail designs vary greatly it takes a surfer with some experience to be able to recognize the difference in feel from one tail design to another. Tails really make the personality of a board. Squash tails say fun with big lip bashes, deep sliding turns, and tons of speed. Pintails signify danger, tubes, and drawn out situations. You should try lots of different tails to figure out what you like. There has been a real comeback for the swallow tail as of late - they work insane on fishes and some people swear by swallowtail shortboards. They have a significantly different, rail-to-rail feel. Surfers who use a heavy back foot will probably decide to stick to a squash. True pintails belong on guns. If you don't have any pintail guns then you need some. There is nothing like the feel of a good 6'8" pin under your arm walking up the beach on a hollow, offshore, 6'+ day.

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