Fenn · Surf lifesaving spec
Fenn Fennix LS
A 5.78m, 48.5cm-beam spec ski with a 40cm seat, built for round-the-cans racing and surf lifesaving events in all surf. The Fennix version has a reworked deck that deflects water, and a fully adjustable one-size-fits-all cockpit. Only the 17.5kg fibreglass build is SLSA compliant.
- Length
- 5.78 m
- Beam
- 48.5 cm
- Deck
- 39 cm
- Lightest
- 10.5 kg
Specifications
- Length
- 5.78 m
- Beam
- 48.5 cm
- Deck height
- 39 cm
- Category
- Surf lifesaving spec
- Usually paddled by
- Paddlers in chop
- New price
- A$3,450
Layup weights
On-water profile
Our estimate from published descriptions and reviews. Low confidence. Speed is our rating. Both are given at the hull's own design weight. How we rate.
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: Surf lifesaving racing through the break and round the cans, plus general surf-zone and coastal paddling.
Paddler weight
The estimated sweet spot is 94–109 kg, with a broader estimated guide of 77–114 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
Original LS spec ski, praised on surfski.info for comfort and stability at a club-friendly price (about A$2,500 at the time).
Fennix refresh that keeps the LS's speed, handling, stability and surfing ability, with large changes to the deck to shed water. Approved by Surf Life Saving Australia and World Surf Life Saving in the fibreglass build.
Pros and cons
Pros
- SLSA and World Surf Life Saving approved in fibreglass
- Stable and comfortable for a spec ski, per owners
- Reworked deck sheds water
- Lighter non-spec layups for training
Cons
- 17.5kg spec weight is heavy off the beach
- Reported to suffer in crosswinds (original LS)
- Bucket fills quickly when stopped (original LS)
What paddlers say
Grumpytex, surfski.info forum (c.2015, original LS): 'This is one of the most comfortable, stable skis that I have paddled.'Reported experience
Goldcoastkiwi, surfski.info forum (original LS): 'it continues to impress me, it is surprisingly fast, particularly downwind, and will pick up any assistance from waves very easily'Reported experience
Goldcoastkiwi, surfski.info forum (original LS): 'The LS is great fun, particularly in the surf zone and the rough, but does suffer more in cross winds'Reported experience
Gallery
Where to buy
Dealers:
Fibreglass (SLSA compliant) A$3,450 at Paddleshop and Ocean Paddler. Ocean Paddler also lists Hybrid (not SLSA compliant) A$4,350 and Carbon (not SLSA compliant) A$5,450. No US price found.
Similar craft
Closest in stability, speed and paddler weight.
Carbonology Surf X Pro
A$3,300new
Stability: editorial estimate, low confidence
Epic SLS10
A$4,895US$3,895new
Stability: editorial estimate, low confidence
Icon Hydrus Elite
GBP 2,550new
Stability: editorial estimate, low confidence