# Fenn XT-S

> Surfski by Fenn. Canonical page: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/fenn-xt-s/
> Cite as: Fenn XT-S, Surfski Index, https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/fenn-xt-s/ (checked 2026-10-15). Terms: https://surfskiindex.com/using-our-data/

## Specifications
- Length: 5.8 m
- Beam: 49 cm
- Deck height: 32 cm
- Layup weights: Glass 13 kg, Vacuum 11 kg, Carbon 10.5 kg
- Usually paddled by: Paddlers in chop

## Ratings (Surfski Index estimates)
- Stability rated 8 out of 10 (traced hull, medium confidence).
- Speed rated 6 out of 10.

Modelled from this hull's traced beam and depth at its design weight. Medium 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 based on a trace of this hull’s geometry. Qualitative context includes 3 paddler reports and 4 linked sources.

## Paddler weight
Estimated sweet spot 76–89 kg, broader estimated guide 62–92 kg. An estimate from hull dimensions, not the designer's intended weight.

## Suits
Flat water to solid downwind swell; used for club races, Miller's Run-style downwind days, and as a step-up training ski before an elite hull.

## Hull
Refined version of the original XT hull, marginally wider (49cm vs 48cm) with revised rocker and volume distribution for improved secondary stability and downwind manners; Fenn describes it as having 'the response and feel of elite-level skis while offering a very stable platform.'

## What works
- Genuine step up in speed/glide over the original XT while keeping strong stability
- Excellent downwind manners
- Light for the category (10.5-11kg Carbon/Hybrid Vacuum)
- Actively sold new by Australian dealers (Paddleshop, Oceanpaddler) - easy parts/warranty support

## Trade-offs
- Noticeably less stable than the Blue-Fin S if coming straight from flat water/kayaking
- Some reviewers note steering felt sluggish until a bigger rudder was fitted
- Priced above beginner-tier skis, competing with Epic V7/V8 and Stellar SEI

## Generations
- 2018-present ('Fenn Mako XT S' / current 'Fennix XTS'): Direct update of the original XT; current Fenn website lists it as 'Fennix XTS,' body copy still calls it 'XT S.' Sits between the Blue-Fin S and Swordfish S in the current lineup.

## What paddlers say
- "Though it's exceptionally stable, it glides easily and behaves agile and predictable in the water" - surfski.info review of the Fenn Mako XT S (Feb 2019)
- "Like all the new Fennix boats the XT S has the response and feel of elite-level skis while offering a very stable platform for ocean paddling" - fennkayaks.com product copy
- "I tried it out on a proper Miller's Run downwind with 22-27kt of SE..." - Robin Mousley, YouTube 'Fenn XT S Miller's Run' review

## Sources
- https://www.fennkayaks.com/products/surfskis/single/fennix-xts/
- https://www.paddleshop.com.au/?s=fenn (Fennix XT S From [price omitted])
- https://surfski.info (Fenn Mako XT S - Review, 3 Feb 2019)
- YouTube: Robin Mousley, 'Fenn XT S Miller's Run'

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