Surf Talk Guru

Bat Tail Surfboard

If you have ever wondered what the differences are between roundpins, squashes, fishes,and bat tails, there is a lot to learn about surfboard tail design. The important thing to remember is that the tail influences how the board digs into or skids across the surface of the wave. An angular tail will allow for more angular, square turns and will dig into the wave. A rounder tail will create rounder, smoother turns and slide across the wave.

If you want to experience the difference in surfboard performance, borrow a board with a tail you’ve never tried from a friend and ride it for about a week. Surf shops often have demo boards you can test out, too. If a certain tail you want to try keeps eluding you, keep your eyes open for a used surfboard rather than getting a new one. You’ll save money and you don’t want to buy something you aren’t sure if you’ll like.

Here is a link to an article on the specifics of different types of tail designs: http://www.surfinghandbook.com/surfboard-design/surfboard-tail-design/