# Fenn Elite S (pre-Fennix)

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

## Specifications
- Length: 6.44 m
- Beam: 43 cm
- Deck height: 31 cm (estimated)
- Layup weights: Glass 13 kg, Vacuum 12.5 kg, Carbon 10.5 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 3 linked sources.

## Paddler weight
Estimated sweet spot 72–83 kg, broader estimated guide 58–87 kg. An estimate from hull dimensions, not the designer's intended weight.

## Suits
Downwind ocean racing is its signature strength, but it holds flat-water speed well - built for experienced/elite paddlers racing from glassy flat to big ocean swell.

## Hull
Narrow, low-volume elite racing hull with more rocker than the original Elite (aiding manoeuvrability) while retaining strong flat-water speed. Lower deck height and a slightly forward-shifted seat versus its predecessors; rounder hull sections and lower rails than the later Fennix version - a wetter, twitchier but beautifully responsive ride, with a deep narrow bucket many long-term owners preferred over the Fennix seat.

## What works
- Multiple World Surf Ski Series titles/podiums - proven elite race pedigree
- Rare combination of downwind surfing ability with genuine flat-water speed
- Fenn build quality/durability reputation
- Cable steering gives precise, fine-tunable rudder response

## Trade-offs
- Narrow (43cm) and low-volume - unforgiving of poor balance/technique; remounts 'more difficult than the Evo or V10' per an experienced tester
- Nose dips noticeably downwind per reviewer notes
- Premium pricing ([price omitted] carbon)
- Cable-actuated rudder/pedal adjustment less convenient than click-stop systems

## Generations
- ~2013-~2020: Replaced the original Elite/Elite SL/Elite Glide family. Moved the cockpit and rudder forward, lowered the deck/volume, reduced the hump; holds multiple World Surf Ski Series titles and podiums. Superseded ~2020 by the redesigned Fennix Elite S (separate listing) - the original moulds were destroyed, so it is used-market only.

## What paddlers say
- "Very narrow boat. More stable than the Fenn Elite. Extremely responsive on the waves; catches waves very easily... when it accelerates onto a run, you really feel as though you're moving fast" - Rob Mousley, surfski.info forum, early Elite S test-paddle report
- "I'm paddling Fenn Elite S (hybrid) for 5 years now, primarily in tame downwind conditions in the Mediterranean sea. When I cannot find the conditions, I usually surf the shorebreak" - surfski.info forum member, long-term Elite S owner

## Sources
- https://surfski.info/forum/21-fenn/18152-fenn-elite-s.html
- https://surfski.info/forum/19-boats/19981-fennix-elite-s-v-elite-s-any-reviews.html
- https://www.geartrade.com.au/index.php?page=list&uid=3174

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