Fenn · Surfski · Out of production
Fenn Elite
Narrow, low-volume elite hull with a proven downwind-surfing pedigree; higher rocker and a higher hump/seating position than the later Elite S. One of the first-generation elite-class hulls that established Fenn's reputation before the S-series lowered volume, moved the rudder/cockpit forward and reduced the hump.
- Length
- 6.4 m
- Beam
- 43 cm
- Deck
- 31 cm
- Lightest
- 10 kg
Specifications
- Length
- 6.4 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: Flat-to-moderate ocean racing and downwind runs for experienced paddlers; not forgiving below advanced skill - narrow beam and high rocker punish poor balance/technique.
Paddler weight
The estimated sweet spot is 71–83 kg, with a broader estimated guide of 58–86 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
First available in Australia in 2008. Fenn's flagship elite racing ski of that era. Spawned two offshoots with distinct hulls - the narrower Elite SL and the lower-rocker Elite Glide (each listed separately) - before the whole family was superseded by the Elite S. Discontinued as a current model.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Proven elite race pedigree, multiple SA and international podiums when current
- Fenn build quality and durability reputation
- Cheapest way into an elite-class Fenn hull second-hand
Cons
- Discontinued for a decade-plus, ageing carbon/gelcoat condition risk on used examples
- Higher hump and less refined cockpit vs Elite S
- Narrow, unforgiving for anyone not already advanced/elite
- Scarce on the AU second-hand market compared to Elite S
What paddlers say
"The Fenn Elite has been a proven success over the years as one of the best downwind surfing skis... since superseded by the Elite SL, Elite Glide and more recently the Elite S, all of which have been designed off the original Fenn Elite model" - Oceanpaddler (Fenn AU distributor) model history pageReported experience
"[Elite S is] more stable than the Fenn Elite... extremely responsive on the waves" - Rob Mousley, surfski.info forum, comparing the Elite S against the original EliteReported experience
Gallery
Where to buy
The Elite is out of production. You can only buy it second-hand.
Dealers:
No longer sold new, superseded by the Elite S (Hybrid A$4,350 / Carbon A$5,450).
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.
Fenn Elite SL
Out of production
Stability: dimension estimate, low confidence
Vajda Hawx 43
Out of production
Stability: dimension estimate, low confidence
Vajda Makai 43
A$5,200new
Stability: dimension estimate, low confidence