California Downwind Carbon SUP Fin / Keel Stand Up Paddleboard

I got a Red Sport 11' but te first time I paddled it, I was very disappointed by the tracking. The stock fin is pretty small, so I reasoned that a bigger fin would help. The problem is that the fin box is short, about 6.5", and most bigger fins are too long. I spent a lot of time looking for a fin that would work. When I read the description of this fin, it looked perfect for my needs, as it has a listed base of 6.01". When it arrived, my heart sank, as it didn't fit. The base was actually about 6.75". Maybe they measure "base" as something different so the description is right, but for my purposes, the base is the length from the nose of the base where the screw hole is, to the rear where the fixed pin is. Since there really weren't any other options, and I was desperate, I decided to modify it. So out came the angle grinder. I ground off just enough from the both ends so that it would fit into the fin box. I took material off of both ends so I wouldn't get too close to the screw hole. I don't think the durability of the fin will be compromised. So if you don't mind taking material off of a brand new piece of gear, this will work in the Red Paddle 6.5" US fin boxes (which they started using in 2015, I believe).As for the performance, I wouldn't say it makes my board track like my 14' coast runner, but it's way better. Very noticeable improvement, and well worth the money. The fin appears to be well constructed and durable. I don't have a lot of experience with different boards and fins, so I can't confidently say "it's the best", but it definitely improved tracking on my board that had a flexible surf style fin (it's the sarusurf 8" fin, which I'll keep for times when I don't need the tracking and want something that can take a hit).If you're looking for ultimate tracking and you have a regular length fin box, I think you probably would be better off with something bigger (Future Fin makes some, and after this experience, I would definitely consider them), but if you want something that tracks well but still allows for relatively quick turns, this is a nice size. And if you're looking for something to improve your Red board, well, you don't have any other options. Get this one, and fire up the grinder! A wood file might work, too, if you don't have a grinder. You don't have to take too much off, just about 1/4".

futures makes great fins, very nice finish and great performance.

Awesomeness