Fenn · Surfski · Out of production
Fenn Elite S (pre-Fennix)
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.
- Length
- 6.44 m
- Beam
- 43 cm
- Deck
- 31 cm
- Lightest
- 10.5 kg
Specifications
- Length
- 6.44 m
- Beam
- 43 cm
- Deck height
- 31 cm (est.)
- Category
- Surfski
- Skill level
- elite
- New price
- Not listed new
Layup weights
On-water profile
Both scores are rated at the hull's own design weight. How these are derived.
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.
Paddler weight
This hull is built around a paddler of about 81 kg. It stays workable from 71 kg to 86 kg, and sits at its best between 75 kg and 83 kg.
Derived from published hull dimensions and calibrated against manufacturer paddler limits, not taken from a marketing range. The method, in full.
Generations
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 Superseded ~2020 by the redesigned Fennix Elite S (separate listing) - the original moulds were destroyed, so it is used-market only.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 works, and what it costs you
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 (AUD 5,450 carbon)
- Cable-actuated rudder/pedal adjustment less convenient than click-stop systems
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 reportReported experience
"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 ownerReported experience
Where to buy
The Elite S (pre-Fennix) is out of production. It turns up on the second-hand market; there is no new-boat channel for it.
Dealers in the markets we have mapped:
No longer sold new - superseded by the Fennix Elite S ~2020 and the original moulds were destroyed ('they don't make the old Elite S anymore as moulds were burnt' - owner report, surfski.info).
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