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
- Usually paddled by
- Racers
- New price
- Not listed new
Layup weights
On-water profile
Modelled from published beam, length and deck height. Low confidence. Speed is our rating. Both are given at the hull's own design weight.
Stability here means how steady the ski feels sitting still on flat water. Where two craft have overlapping ranges, we can't say which is more stable. Downwind handling is a separate thing, covered in the evidence note below.
Evidence note
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
The estimated sweet spot is 72–83 kg, with a broader estimated guide of 58–87 kg. This estimate is a guide, not a limit. Seat fit, conditions and paddling style matter. Lighter paddlers can still enjoy a larger hull, especially downwind. A test paddle is the best check.
Estimated from hull dimensions using a formula fitted to makers’ own paddler limits. It does not establish the designer’s intended paddler weight. How this is worked out.
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 Superseded ~2020 by the redesigned Fennix Elite S (separate listing) - the original moulds were destroyed, so it is used-market only.
Pros and cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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
Gallery
Where to buy
The Elite S (pre-Fennix) is out of production. You can only buy it second-hand.
Dealers:
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).
Similar craft
Closest in stability, speed and paddler weight.
These prices haven't been checked for more than three months and may be out of date. Check with a dealer before relying on one.
Huki S1-Z
No list priceask a dealer
Stability: dimension estimate, low confidence
Fenn Fennix Cuda
A$4,350new
Stability: traced hull, medium confidence
Scofits Ayahavela Bullet
US$4,200new
Stability: dimension estimate, low confidence