3 Best Electric Fins For Paddle Boards Reviewed (2024)
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An electric fin for paddle board lovers is an absolute gamechanger! Seriously. How many times have you been paddling and you start to not enjoy being on the water because you’re tired. It’s happened to me countless times.
And these electric fins completely solve this problem. They give you the little ‘oomph’ that you need to catch that wave, or paddle to shore 🏄♂️
Today, we’re reviewing three top electric fins of 2024 to boost your paddleboarding experience.
But here’s a quick summary:
“So what’s the best electric fin? Based on our testing, the best electric fin for a paddle board is the Boost Surfing fin. Not can it add 5 mph to your ride, but you can also install it in under 5 minutes. I loved using it and highly recommend it. It’ll be tough to find a worthy alternative at this point in time.”
Keep reading for a more detailed review below.
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Table Of Contents
3 Electric Paddle Board Fins You Should Seriously Consider
Here are the 3 fins that we reviewed:
| Category | Electric Fin For Paddle Board |
| Best Overall Electric Fin | Boost Surf Fin |
| Top Budget Electric Fin | Paradise Paddle Electric Fin |
| Great For Epoxy (Hard) Paddle Boards | Paradise Pad Electric Motorized Fin |
Here are the reviews of these different electric fin for paddle board options.
#1: Boost Surf Fin (Best Overall Electric Fin)
Where To Buy: Amazon
Specs & Features:
– Max speed of 5 mph with a ride time of 40 minutes at top speed
– Dimensions of 35.43 x 13.78 x 41.34 inches
– Weight of 3.3 lbs
– Charge Time: 2 hours
– Engine thrust: 20 lbs
Overall Thoughts:
I loved the Boost fin! Initially I saw that it got a lot of traction on Kickstarter and I see why, because it’s really fun! I was really excited to review it. All you need to do is find one for sale, get it and attach it to your sup pretty much like any other fin and you’re ready to go. You have a watch that controls the speed and you can use it to catch waves or just make your paddling easier. With the value that it provides you, I can’t think of a strong reason why you wouldn’t want it.
| PROS | CONS |
| – Clips in like a fin and can be installed out of the box in about 5 minutes. – Goes up to 5mph which is pretty fast considering. – Great price. – Opens up options for fishing and other activities | – The motor isn’t silent – Lower battery life (I’d recommend buying the replacement battery) |
Details:
The Boost surfing electric fin is the best electric fin for paddle boards in 2024. This fin revolutionizes the paddle boarding experience with its unique design and functionality. This compact, lightweight fin, weighing only 2.7 lbs, is crafted from Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer and durable ABS Plastic, making it both resistant and barely noticeable once attached to your board. Installation is straightforward and quick, requiring just five minutes to set up like any standard fin.
The electric fin is equipped with a 3500 mAh battery, supporting extended paddle boarding sessions with varying modes: SUP Assistance Mode offers up to 100 minutes of support, ensuring you can explore farther without worrying about conserving energy for the trip back. Its design minimizes drag and resistance, thanks to optimized propeller pitch, blade surface, and feathering prop, granting your watercraft a significant boost in speed and agility. Control over the fin is maintained through a remote, allowing for adjustable speeds to suit your paddling needs. If you’re looking for a boost then this is definitely worth considering.
What’s Included:
The kit contains:
- Boost Surfing Electric Fin
- SUP Motor Fin Adaptor
- Hand Controller
- Charging Station
- 1 Year Warranty
| Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
#2: Paradise Paddle Electric Fin (Top Budget Electric Fin)
Where To Buy: Amazon
Specs & Features:
– Max speed of 5.5 mph with a ride time of 60 minutes at top speed (8 hours at lower speed)
– 4 speed 350w motor
– Weight of 14 lbs
– Charge Time: 2 hours
– Horsepower: 350 watt
Overall Thoughts:
This electric fin for paddle board is a solid choice that many riders will love. Not only is it easy to install but it also works really well. My only complaint with it is that you need to attach the large battery to your board which isn’t the case for the Boost. Besides this, it’s a solid budget pick that you’ll be happy with.
| PROS | CONS |
| – Has a good high speed (5.5 mph) and lasts for over 60 minutes. – Comes with everything you need already included in the box. – Good price compared to the other options on the market. – Easy to install | – Much heavier than the Boost electric fin and requires the battery pack attached to your SUP which gets in the way. |
Details:
The Paradise Pad electric paddleboard fin is a great budget choice for paddle boarders in 2024. This electric motorized fin integrates easily with both hardboard and inflatable paddle boards, requiring only five minutes for installation. It distinguishes itself with a powerful 36V, 8Ah lithium battery, offering up to 8 hours of use on its lowest speed and enabling a full hour of operation at 5 mph, setting a new standard for battery life in electric fins.
The 350W motor provides four adjustable speeds, with the highest reaching up to 5.5 mph. This solid performance ensures that paddlers can easily keep pace with others, navigate sudden weather changes, and counter challenging winds or currents – making your SUP experience better.
It has a kill switch ankle leash that immediately turns off the propeller in case of a fall, ensuring maximum safety during use (1) and it is a smart investment for paddlers looking to maximize their time on the water with a reliable, high-performance electric fin.
What’s Included:
The kit contains:
- Paradise Pad Electric Fin
- 36v Lithium Battery Box
- Bluetooth Remote
- 2x Fin Box Fittings
- Ankle Leash
- Mounting Cords
| Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
#3: Paradise Pad Hardboard Fin (Great For Epoxy (Hard) Paddle Boards)
Where To Buy: Amazon
Specs & Features:
– Max speed of 5.5 mph with a ride time of 6 hours at high speed.
– 3 speed 10″ motorized fin
– Weight of 13 lbs
– Charge Time: 3-5 hours
– 36 volt rechargeable Lithium-ion battery
Overall Thoughts:
This is a good pick for hard paddle boards. The ultimate benefit of this is that it lasts a long time (up to 6 hours) which is much longer than other models. This means that it is a great addition to touring paddlers that are going to be out on the water for a longer time. The downside of this is that you have a heavy battery pack on your board, but its nothing you can’t handle if you’re taking coolers and other goodies with you for the trip.
| PROS | CONS |
| – Long ride time at a solid max speed. – Easy to install (under 5 minutes) – High quality material and comes with everything you need to get on the water fast. – Kill switch is included so it will turn off if you fall off the SUP. – Good price. | – Requires you have a heavy battery pack on your board. |
Details:
The original Paradise Pad Electric SUP Fin stands is really good for hard epoxy paddle boarders seeking a significant upgrade to their paddling experience. This motorized fin system is powered by a 12Ah battery, markedly better to the 3.5Ah batteries found in other brands, and operates at 33.3 volts for greater performance and longer usage times. This design choice, favoring a separate battery pack, ensures extended operation that smaller, integrated batteries cannot match.
This electric fin motor for kayaks and sups system is tailored for an air7 fin style, typically found on hardboards, and has been celebrated for its exceptional performance over four years of market presence. The package includes a 10-inch motorized fin, a 36-volt lithium-ion battery that recharges in 3-5 hours, a Bluetooth remote with three forward speeds, a battery charger, and an ankle leash equipped with an auto shut-off switch for added safety.
This E-Fin motorizing kit can propel your SUP up to speeds of 5+ mph for up to 6 hours, depending on factors like user weight, water conditions, and the craft type and size. Whether battling against strong currents, keeping pace with faster paddlers, or simply enjoying a leisurely tour or fishing trip, this system elevates the experience. Safety is also a priority, with a surf leash that immediately turns the motor off if you fall. The fin itself is crafted from durable marine-grade plastic, ensuring resilience against natural wear from rocks and sand.
What’s Included:
The kit contains:
- Paradise Pad Electric Fin
- 36v Lithium Battery Box
- Bluetooth Remote
- 2x Fin Box Fittings
- Ankle Leash
- Mounting Cords
| Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
Benefits Of Using An Electric Fin For Paddle Board
Using an electric fin on your paddle board makes things easier and more fun in several ways:
| You Go Faster: | With an electric fin, your paddle board can move quicker. This means you can see and explore more places without having to paddle harder. |
| Less Tiring: | Paddling can wear you out, but with an electric fin, you don’t have to work as hard. This is great for longer trips or just enjoying more time on the water without getting tired. |
| Help Against the Wind and Currents: | When the wind picks up or the current gets strong, an electric fin can give you the extra push you need to keep going without struggling. |
| Safer: | Many electric fins come with safety features. If you fall off, the fin stops automatically, helping to prevent accidents. |
| Good for Fishing and Exploring: | If you like to fish from your board or go on long explorations, an electric fin keeps you moving steadily and quietly, which can be really handy. |
| Adds Fun | It’s just cool to have that extra boost. Whether you’re speeding up for fun or cruising smoothly, an electric fin adds a new twist to paddle boarding. |
How To Choose Which Electric Fin You Should Get:
Choosing the right electric fin for your paddle board involves considering several key factors to ensure you get the best fit for your needs and preferences (2). Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Compatibility: Check if the electric fin is compatible with your paddle board type—whether it’s a hardboard or an inflatable. Some fins are designed specifically for certain board types or fin box systems.
- Battery Life and Speed: Consider how long the battery lasts and how fast the fin can propel your board. If you plan on longer paddling sessions or desire a significant speed boost, look for a fin with a long battery life and higher speed capabilities.
- Weight and Size: The weight and size of the fin can affect the handling and performance of your paddle board. Lighter fins are easier to maneuver and less noticeable during use, but they might offer less thrust compared to heavier models.
- Ease of Installation: Look for a fin that can be easily installed and removed. Most electric fins are designed for easy setup, but some may require additional tools or steps.
- Safety Features: Safety features like a kill switch ankle leash, which turns off the motor if you fall off, are crucial for preventing accidents. Ensure the fin you choose includes adequate safety mechanisms.
- Price and Budget: Electric fins vary in price, with some offering more advanced features and performance at a higher cost. Determine your budget and find a fin that offers the best value for your money.
By taking these factors into account, you’ll make sure that you’re not surprised by what you get.
How To Install An Electric Fin For Paddle Board
Here is a quick video that shows you exactly how to install most of them on your SUP.
Conclusion:
Electric fins are transforming the paddle boarding world, offering enthusiasts a way to enhance their experience on the water significantly. Whether you’re looking to extend your sessions, tackle strong currents with ease, or simply enjoy a more relaxed journey across the water, there’s an electric fin out there to suit your needs.
Among the top contenders of 2024, the Boost Surf Fin stands out as the best overall for its speed, ease of installation, and innovative design, while the Paradise Paddle Electric Fin offers great value for those on a budget, and the Paradise Pad Electric Motorized Fin shines for hard epoxy paddle boarders with its impressive battery life and performance.
Selecting the right electric fin involves considering factors like compatibility, battery life, speed, ease of installation, and, of course, safety features. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find a fin that not only fits your paddle boarding style but also enhances your overall experience on the water.
Remember, the goal of adding an electric fin to your paddle board setup is to make your adventures more enjoyable and less stressful, allowing you to spend more time doing what you love. With the right electric fin, you’ll find yourself exploring further, catching more waves, and maybe even discovering new spots you previously thought were out of reach. So, consider your options, choose wisely, and get ready to experience paddle boarding like never before. Happy paddling!
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FAQs:
How do electric fins for paddle boards work?
Electric fins are powered by a battery-operated motor that propels the board forward when engaged, offering an extra boost to paddlers.
Can I install electric fins on any paddle board?
Most electric fin models are designed to be compatible with a wide range of paddle boards and can be easily installed without extensive modifications.
Are there any safety considerations when using electric fins for paddle boards?
It is important to familiarize yourself with the operation of the electric fin and its controls before use, as well as ensuring proper maintenance of the battery and motor components. Most of them have kill switches to turn off the motor if you fall off, but DON’T put your fingers in the blade.
How long does the battery in an electric fin typically last?
The battery life of an electric fin can vary depending on factors such as usage intensity and speed settings, but many models offer several hours of continuous use on a single charge.
Can you put an electric motor on a paddle board?
Yes, you can attach an electric motor to a paddle board using an electric fin system designed for easy installation and enhanced propulsion. These systems are compatible with most paddle boards and offer a significant boost in speed and efficiency on the water.
References:
1 – Cottage Life, Paddleboard deaths are on the rise as sport grows in popularity, taken from: https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/other/paddleboard-deaths-are-on-the-rise-as-sport-grows-in-popularity/ar-AA1eEw5i
2 – Lee Bell, Paddle Boarding Tech: How The Sport Is Evolving Thanks To Inflatable Board Innovations, taken from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/leebelltech/2018/02/15/paddle-boarding-tech-how-the-sport-is-evolving-thanks-to-innovations-in-inflatable-board-designs/
