# Fenn Elite S Double

> Double by Fenn. Canonical page: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/fenn-elite-s-double/
> Cite as: Fenn Elite S Double, Surfski Index, https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/fenn-elite-s-double/ (checked 2026-10-15). Terms: https://surfskiindex.com/using-our-data/

## Specifications
- Length: 7.45 m
- Beam: 46.5 cm
- Deck height: 38 cm
- Layup weights: Glass 24 kg, Vacuum 18.5 kg, Carbon 17 kg
- Usually paddled by: Racers

## Ratings (Surfski Index estimates)
- Stability band 5–7 out of 10 (dimension estimate, low confidence).
- Speed rated 9 out of 10.

Modelled from published beam, length and deck height. Low confidence. Speed is our rating. Both are given at the hull's own design weight.

These ratings are Surfski Index estimates, worked out from published dimensions, traced hull shapes where we have them, and reviews. They are not supplied by the maker or timed on the water. How a ski feels depends on your weight, skill, set-up and the conditions, so use them to shortlist skis and paddle one before you buy. Method: https://surfskiindex.com/how-it-works/#limits

Evidence note: This band is estimated from published dimensions. Qualitative context includes 2 paddler reports and 4 linked sources.

## Paddler weight
Estimated sweet spot 75–87 kg per seat, broader estimated guide 61–90 kg. An estimate from hull dimensions, not the designer's intended weight.

## Suits
Experienced crews only - downwind ocean swell, surf racing, flat-water speed work; not forgiving for mismatched or novice paddlers.

## Hull
Lower-volume, narrower racing double hull (465mm) with a fitted seat set forward in the hull to reduce leg hump and improve flat-water speed; wetter ride in the back seat due to lower volume but built for maneuverability and downwind surfing ability.

## What works
- Fastest Fenn double, especially downwind and on flat water
- Excellent surfing/maneuverability for a double, 'handles like a single' in runs
- 'S' seat fit works for smaller/lighter paddler pairs, unlike the tall-paddler-oriented original
- Long racing pedigree - dominant double in SA and international ocean racing

## Trade-offs
- Least stable Fenn double - needs a competent, well-matched crew
- Wetter ride in the back seat due to lower hull volume
- Not beginner-friendly; unforgiving in chop for mismatched paddlers

## Generations
- 'S' seat generation, current; earlier non-S Elite Double (7.45m x 46.5cm) predates it: 'S' revision moved seats forward, reduced leg hump, moved the rudder forward, lowered footwells, and added leg-leash attachment points in both seats - aimed at smaller paddlers than the original Elite Double.

## What paddlers say
- surfski.info 2011 forum thread ('Double Ski choice'): recommends the Elite Double only if 'you're stable and paddle a top end single ski yourself,' otherwise steers buyers to the XT Double.
- surfski.info review of the earlier Mako Elite Double (2009): 'The ski is hugely lighter than my previous double and this produces noticeably better acceleration on the water'; noted for catching runs well and good finish quality.

## Sources
- https://oceanpaddler.com/fenn-surf-skis
- https://oceanpaddler.com/surf-skis/fennix-elite-s-double/
- https://www.nauticexpo.com/prod/fenn-kayaks/product-25466-559273.html
- https://surfski.info (forum: 'Double Ski choice'; review 'Fenn Mako Elite double')

## Prices
Current new prices and dealers: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/fenn-elite-s-double/#buy