Fiberglass vs Honeycomb Fins — Real Performance Differences

Written By Graeme Gillmer

Which Surfboard Fin Construction Actually Performs Better?

When choosing surfboard fins, one of the biggest decisions is fiberglass vs honeycomb construction.

Honeycomb fins are marketed as lightweight and responsive, while fiberglass fins are known for drive and reliability — but what does this actually mean in the water?

This guide explains the real performance differences between fiberglass and honeycomb fins, so you can choose the setup that matches your surfing.

Quick Answer

Fiberglass fins provide:

  • Stronger drive

  • Better hold

  • More predictable flex

  • Longer lifespan

Honeycomb fins provide:

  • Lighter weight

  • Faster initial response

  • Easier turning feel

  • Reduced stiffness

For most surfers — especially in real surf conditions — fiberglass fins deliver more reliable performance.

What Are Fiberglass Fins?

Fiberglass fins are built from layers of woven glass cloth saturated in resin, creating a strong and consistent structure.

This construction produces:

  • Controlled flex patterns

  • High strength

  • Clean energy transfer

  • Reliable projection

Fiberglass fins have been the performance standard for decades because they maintain consistent behaviour under load.

Typical Fiberglass Performance Feel

  • Solid through turns

  • Predictable at speed

  • Strong projection

  • Reliable hold in powerful surf

Representative Eveley fiberglass fins include:

For sizing guidance see:

Thruster Fin Size Guide
https://www.eveley.com.au/guides/thruster-fin-size-guide

What Are Honeycomb Fins?

Honeycomb fins use a lightweight hexagonal core material sandwiched between fiberglass or composite skins.

This reduces weight and increases responsiveness.

Honeycomb fins typically feel:

  • Quick to turn

  • Light underfoot

  • Easy to release

  • Slightly less planted

They are often preferred by surfers who want a lively feel in smaller waves.

Real Performance Differences

Drive

Fiberglass:
Stronger drive through turns because energy transfers more directly into forward speed.

Honeycomb:
Less drive under heavy load because the structure absorbs more energy.

Winner: Fiberglass

Hold

Fiberglass:
Better rail hold, especially at higher speeds and in powerful waves.

Honeycomb:
Can feel slightly loose when pushed hard.

Winner: Fiberglass

Flex Feel

Fiberglass:
Predictable flex that increases gradually with pressure.

Honeycomb:
More springy and immediate flex response.

Winner: Depends on preference

Speed Generation

Fiberglass:
Better speed through projection.

Honeycomb:
Faster initial acceleration.

Winner: Tie

Stability at Speed

Fiberglass:
Feels planted and controlled.

Honeycomb:
Can feel nervous at higher speeds.

Winner: Fiberglass

Fiberglass vs Honeycomb Fin Performance

Drive

  • Fiberglass: High drive with strong projection through turns

  • Honeycomb: Moderate drive with a lighter, more relaxed feel

Fiberglass fins push the board forward more efficiently, especially when you lean into a turn.

Hold

  • Fiberglass: High hold and strong grip on the wave face

  • Honeycomb: Moderate hold with a slightly looser feel

Fiberglass feels more secure when the waves are fast or powerful.

Stability

  • Fiberglass: Very stable at speed

  • Honeycomb: Moderately stable but can feel lighter underfoot

Fiberglass fins feel planted and controlled when the board is moving fast.

Weight

  • Fiberglass: Medium weight

  • Honeycomb: Lightweight

Honeycomb fins are noticeably lighter, which can make boards feel more lively.

Flex Feel

  • Fiberglass: Smooth and predictable flex

  • Honeycomb: Springy and quick to respond

Fiberglass flex builds gradually, while honeycomb fins tend to feel more reactive.

Powerful Waves

  • Fiberglass: Excellent control and hold

  • Honeycomb: Moderate performance in heavy surf

Fiberglass fins handle speed and pressure better when the waves have power.

Small Waves

  • Fiberglass: Very good all-round performance

  • Honeycomb: Excellent for easy turning and looseness

Honeycomb fins often feel more playful in weaker surf.

When Fiberglass Is the Better Choice

Fiberglass fins excel if you want:

  • Maximum projection

  • Reliable hold

  • Powerful wave control

  • Predictable performance

  • Long lifespan

Fiberglass is especially beneficial for:

  • Overhead waves

  • Fast beach breaks

  • Reef breaks

  • Heavier surfers

  • Performance boards

See:

Best Fins for Powerful Waves
https://www.eveley.com.au/guides/best-fins-for-powerful-waves

When Honeycomb Makes Sense

Honeycomb fins make sense if you want:

  • Very light feel

  • Easy turning

  • Small-wave looseness

  • Fast response

They are most suited to:

  • Small waves

  • Fish boards

  • Grovel boards

  • Lighter surfers

Why Many Experienced Surfers Choose Fiberglass

Once surfers begin pushing harder turns, the advantages of fiberglass become clear:

  • More projection

  • More hold

  • Better consistency

That’s why most high-performance and step-up fins are still fiberglass.

Eveley Pro Glass fins are designed specifically around controlled flex and reliable projection.

See:

Choose the Right Surfboard Fin Setup
https://www.eveley.com.au/guides/choose-the-right-surfboard-fin-setup

Common Myths

"Honeycomb fins are faster"

Not necessarily.

They accelerate quickly, but fiberglass often generates more real speed through projection.

"Fiberglass fins are stiff"

Quality fiberglass fins are designed with controlled flex patterns, not rigidity.

"Lightweight fins are always better"

Very light fins can reduce control in powerful surf.

Balance matters more than weight.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Fiberglass Fins if you want:

  • Clean projection

  • Reliable hold

  • Confidence at speed

  • Performance consistency

Choose Honeycomb Fins if you want:

  • Lightweight feel

  • Easy turning

  • Small-wave looseness

Recommended Eveley Fiberglass Fins

Good fiberglass templates to start with:

These represent the core performance range of Eveley Pro Glass fins.

FAQ — Fiberglass vs Honeycomb Fins

Are fiberglass fins better for powerful waves?

Yes. Fiberglass provides better hold and stability when waves have power.

Are honeycomb fins better for beginners?

Sometimes. The lighter feel can make boards easier to turn.

Do fiberglass fins last longer?

Yes. Fiberglass fins typically resist fatigue and impact damage better.

Can you feel the difference?

Yes. Most surfers notice stronger projection and control with fiberglass.

Final Verdict

If you want:

  • Control at speed

  • Reliable hold

  • Clean projection

  • Consistent flex

Fiberglass fins are usually the better choice.

If you want a light and lively feel in smaller waves, honeycomb fins can be a good option.

Graeme Gillmer
Next

Best Fins for Powerful Waves