True Ames

Then and Now

For more than three decades Chuck Ames and the True Ames Fins team have been at the forefront of the fiberglass fin industry. Balancing a surfer-driven design ethic with an unyielding commitment to innovation and production excellence, we have forged an international reputation in the surfing and windsurfing communities as the guys who, simply put, make your waveriding vehicle of choice work even better. After all, as Chuck likes to say, “You could have the best board in the world shaped for you but, if the fins are off, it won’t go- the thing just won’t work the way it should.” Day in and day out, it is our goal at True Ames to make sure such fin failures never happen to you.

This mission started one afternoon in 1979 in the parking lot at Rincon when Chuck found a flyer on his car post-surf session at the Queen of the Coast. The fateful note was advertising a fin business for sale and, well, being a recent college grad with designs on making a few bucks and still having time to chase waves, the offer was too good to refuse. Soon enough, True Ames was born and Chuck was busy laying up fiberglass, cutting fins, and grinding away foils in the bean fields of Oxnard.

The early 1980’s was a heady and occasionally tumultuous time in Southern California’s exploding surf industry and the Santa Barbara area was right in the middle of the madness. Lockstep with the innovation of that historic era, we worked closely with local comrades and emerging legends like Reynolds Yater and Channel Islands Surfboards’ Al Merrick to produce fins that helped make some of the best surfboards on the planet even better. True Ames templates and foils helped navigate a young Tommy Curren towards his first World Title and also played a critical role in the Campbell Brothers cutting edge Bonzer experiments of the day.

The mid-80’s saw True Ames jump head first into the technically challenging world of windsurfing. Forming a tight relationship with George Geenough, another one of Santa Barbara’s most brilliant and eccentric ocean-minded innovators who was already quite engrossed with the hydrodynamic challenges of windsurfing, we set to developing progressive fin foils that quickly set new standards for the industry. True Ames riders came to dominate race courses the world over and, when the first windsurfer broke the 50 MPH mark, he was propelled by one of our skegs.

EVOLUTION. by True Ames

The design adventure only continued for us in the 1990’s as the surfing world rediscovered longboards. Seemingly overnight, an unprecedented demand for Bane box fins was created and, with it, came a new wave of surfers and shapers demanding an ever-expanding palate of longboard fin templates for a wide variety of wave conditions and surfing styles. More than happy to oblige, we jumped in the fabricating shop with a mix of forward thinking shapers/surfers like Wayne Rich, Greg Liddle, Skip Frye, Dale Velzy, and the Yaters, to create their own signature True Ames fins, all of which continue to flourish and evolve. It was also during the latter half of the 90’s that we first started applying our vast fin experience to the sport of wake boarding.

Today, as the 21st Century enters its teenage years, True Ames remains as committed as ever to providing the best fins for your ride, no matter your vehicle of choice within the vast family trees of surfing, windsurfing, wake boarding and kite boarding. Long hours of research and development have led to our industry leading True Lite Hexcore line for FCS and Future systems, be they twin fin, thruster, quad or 2+1 set-ups. Knowing full well that a proper magic

board requires collaboration between shapers, fin makers and surfers alike, we continue regular work on our signature fins for world class board companies like Channel Islands, Lost, The Campbell Brothers, Timmy Patterson, and Eric Arakawa. And, perhaps most importantly, envelope pushing and design-conscious world class surfers like Tyler Warren, Christian Wach, Josh Farberow, Adam Robertson, and the scores of 805-based surfers who care about what is under their feet, remain regular visitors to our headquarters in Goleta where we work together to vision quest the future of fin design and construction. From new foils and shapes, to our emerging wood fin project that features perfectly produced CAD system cut bamboo and cedar fins, ours is a world of constant evolution and dedication to keeping True Ames as the fin industry’s greatest resource.

ConstruCtion All surf fins are not created equal! We take advantage of a vast amount of fin manufacturing experience to create fins that work in many different applications. Designs are executed using the required materials and foils to create the highest performance surf fins available today.FlexFlex is a very important element in our designs. Many of our surfboard fins come with a tuned flex. A fin that has flex can be very different than a fin without flex. The flex concept brings to life an otherwise average ride. Cutbacks have more power and bottom turns have more projection.FoilsTrue Ames Surf Fins incorporate a constant foil which means you will not find any flat spots on our fins that may cause water disturbance which will ultimately cause poor performance. Our bigger solid color fins are foiled from 7/16” solid 6oz. glass sheet stock. Smaller fins do not need to be so thick to have the proper foil.sizeThe depth of your fin is measured from base to tip vertically. Adjusting your fin size will affect the performance of your board. Larger fins provide more stability and control, so a larger board will need

bigger fins. For example a 9’6” single fin surfboard needs at least a 9.5” fin and if nose riding is most important to you then you will find bigger fins give more forward control.templateThe outline of a fin is what determines the area and the look. The way the area is distributed on the fin is what makes fins individual and work in so many different ways. A wide base fin with a wide tip is the most stable but not forgiving. A narrow base fin with a narrow tip will be very loose and fast but unstable at slow speeds. The fin’s sweep (or rake angle) affects the board’s ability to carve turns. A more vertical fin will make tight turns and fast directional changes while a more raked fin will carve wider arcs and handle more power through turns. Tail width is also a factor in fin choice. Narrow tail boards do not require deep fins because there is less distance from the fin to the rail. A wide board requires a deeper fin than a narrower board. For example an 8’ egg style board that is on the wide side should use about an 8.5” to 9.0” fin. A narrow tail single fin board that is 7’6” can use a fin in the 7” to 8” range.

Understanding Fin Design

trying new Fins: mix it upYou might have your board and fin setup exactly how you like it. That’s great, but, you might be surprised to see how much different your board will ride by adjusting up your fin setup. Waves are always changing shape and size, condition-wise, you might find that trying a few different setups can give your board a new feeling, maybe even better than before. Whether you are going with a 2+1 setup or just sticking to the basic single fin, there are lots of ways to improve your board’s ride.

Don’t hesitate to try new boards and fins. It keeps your surfing fresh and allows you to keep progressing. We offer a bunch of templates and size ranges for a multitude of variables in your fin experimentation.

We are constantly evolving our line. The website is the place to see the latest...

trueames.com

Fin Experimentation

CaliFornia ClassiC

SizeS: 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10

Nine sizes make up this collection for a wide range of choices. The medium build and rake make this design the foundation to begin to expand your quiver. All boards and designs accepted. A great all-around fin.

SMALLeR SizeS ( 6” - 7.5” )

Perfect for a 2+1center fin.

LARGeR SizeS ( 9” - 10”)

A favorite for bothsolid carving turns to elegant full control

tip rides.

the heritage the sliCK

SizeS: 9.75 | 10 | 10.5 SizeS: 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10

Our version of what Bing and Rick surfboards brought to tip riding long ago. This fin complements any long board that can find trim and stay there. A great nose rider, and when it is time to turn, step way back and pivot the tail… repeat as long as the wave peels.

A full area design with more rake than our Heritage fin, giving you long, smooth, flowing arcs. Chris Slickenmeyer is currently living on the South Shore of Oahu and actively working on new fin concepts for a variety of boards. For now, go with the Slick for a full area template that will give you amazing carveablility.

ALL SizeS Mostly the heavy squaretail

versions seem to do best with this model.

velzy noserider

SizeS: 9 | 9.5 | 10

A slender, slippery Pivot / Noserider special. We offer this as an alternative to the more full area relatives including the Heritage. Velzy knew the subtle footwork from the likes of Nuiiwa would benefit with only just enough fin far behind his toes. Loose yet stable, this one will come alive for the more sensitive types.

velzy ClassiC perFormer

SizeS: 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 SizeS: 5.45 | 6.25 | 7.25 | 8In the turmoil that came before Velzy’s passing we found this design really lit up his longer V-bottom boards. This is a minimal area fin with a fair amount of sweep. Drawing longer lines and smooth turns are an inherent characteristic of this fin. Designed not to flex, the projection comes from the rails and directional V-bottom on your board. We also have reports of this fin working quite well with other slippery equipment.

The foundation of this design is competition & high performance 2+1 longboard surfing. John Perry, one of Santa Barbara’s most notable long time shapers, has lent his hand in fine-tuning these gems, most recently. A powerful, full base fin, with an extremely smooth ride.

THE 9.5” AND 10” ARe THe FAVORiTeS.These sizes complement a 9 to 10 foot board nicely.

SMALLeR SizeS ( 5.45” - 6.25” )

Pair up with a larger set of side bites for a great combo.

LARGeR SizeS ( 7.25” - 8”)

Try these out as a single fin setup.

greenough 4-a

SizeS: 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 9 | 9.75 | 10 | 10.5

George Greenough has certainly made his mark on all things surfing and here is the best of the best. The full base coupled with the tapering, moderately flexible tip creates a balance that transcends and complementss so many aspects of surfing. Of course a unique understanding of his aquatic fish friends is the foundation here. Install the 4-A on any performance surf vehicle and you will find instant bliss. Currently available with matte finish.

SMALLeR SizeS ( 7” - 9” )

Use the smaller sizes for a single fin or 2+1.

greenough 4-C greenough stage 6

Size: 9.5 SizeS: 5 | 5.5 | 7.25 | 8 | 9 | 9.75

The predecessor to the 4A, this template is important. Conceived in the early ‘70s, a direct descendent from the original Stage 4 that swept the surfing world. We offer this fin to be used as you see fit. Reports have come in with a wide range of applications.

This fin has its roots in George’s windsurfer! He and others have lent strong encouragement to bring this design to the surf world. The basic theory is a “stiff leg” and “active paddle” (sometimes called the paddle fin). By putting the working part of the fin deeper in the “clean” water, the feeling is solid yet highly maneuverable. This fin is one of the only designs we have ever claimed to noseride as well as it performs in the turns. The 9.75” is a perfect complement to a 9’6” single fin. These fins surf a bit smaller than their size compared with conventional fin sizing.

THe PeRFeCT SizeWe just say this is one of the

most classic, fundamental designs or a single fin longboard… ever!!

sKip Frye Flex

SizeS: 6.5 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 9.25

What makes this flex fin unique is that it is a perfect compliment to one of the greatest surfboard craftsman… period. Skip designed these fins to work with his ultra sensitive boards in the mid 70’s. They excel when used in thinner, planning type boards. But they also can be used in a broad range of equipment… such as 2+1 center fins for performance longboarding.

l-Flex Farberow Flex

SizeS: 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9-A | 9-B SizeS: 9 | 9.5 | 10

Hulls, eggs, platters, boards that are designed to dig deep rail carves are what the L-Flex is all about! These fins are direct from the archives of the Gregg Liddle library. Thin foils with tuned flex make them precision tools for high performance riding. The 9.0” comes in 3 templates ranging from super narrow, low area, to a moderate, more conventional planform that could be used on a wide variety of shapes. Features a matte or raw finish.

Josh Farberow came to us with a request… Just make the California Classic as flexible as possible, the rest is history. One of our most popular all around flex fins! Give this fin a try in your favorite long board that seems to be stagnating in potential. The feeling of a turn with added power and the potential for subtle trim adjustments is what this fin is all about.

AVAILABLE IN RAW FINISH.Sanded with 220 and no finish coat,

allowing you to re-foil and play with the flex for optimal fin experimentation.

yater rudderyater ClassiC

SizeS: 7.25 | 8.25 | 9.25 | 9.75SizeS: 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 10

Designed to be a broad area flex fin. The full, raked area in the tip, combined with the reduced area in the mid section, create smooth carving turns. Modern long boards and 2+1 set-ups will be enhanced when coupled with this fin. A unique fin for those looking to experiment.

Rennie created this design for high performance single fins in the mid-70’s. This one has become quite versatile and is used over a wide spectrum. Retro single fins, longboard single fins, and a fantastic 2+1 center fin cover just a bit of the possibilities. The upright template, combined with minimal flex, creates a fin that has stood the test of time!

SMALLeR SizeS( 6.5”- 7.5” )

A great size to match up with some 3.7” sidebites.

LARGeR SizeS( 8” - 10” )

Try these sizes on your favorite single fin boards.

yater spoon

Size: 9.75

The transition fin from the D-fin to anything that turns. In the mid 60’s Yater removed the back area from the traditional D-fin to create a “looser” feeling design… A perfect complement for the “Yater Spoon.”

THe PeRFeCT SizeUse this design on a traditional

long board for an all around stable but maneuverable ride

the purChase

Size: 10.25

The Purchase “Block Fin” was created by Christian Wach of Canvas Surfboards. The idea behind the cut away was to minimize the base without compromising the width of the fin. With the smaller base, transitions into turns are much smoother, less pivot and more flow. It also makes it possible to move the fin a lot further back in the box. This is a contemporary pivot fin design that is great for any noserider.

nat young norm Flex

Size: 9.5 SizeS: 7 | 8 | 9This fin has been in the True Ames template library from the beginning. Classic lines with curves that come from the single fin revolution era. An excellent choice for all around traditional long boarding. It will noseride but responds better in the turns. An ideal pick for boards in the 9’ – 9’6” range.

Conceived as an extreme. This design has found its place mostly in the retro single fin world. It has been known to find a spot on some 2+1 boards with great results. It features a narrow base, combined with a tip the sweeps way back. It has a good amount of flex for long projecting turns.

FiN MeASUReMeNTS.This is a large area fin. An inch and a half up

from the base, the widest point is 7 inches. At the base the actual width is 6 inches.

Size: 9.75

parrish Cutaway

SizeS: 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8In the mid 70’s the single fin was king. Tom Parrish is probably the ultimate figurehead shaper for this dreamy time zone. Today, Tom and Charlie Smith have teamed up and are producing some beautiful boards. This fin design is just the beginning of more to come. Their cutaway is for 2 + 1 setups and those who want increased looseness and quicker direction changes by minimizing area at the base of the fin.

smith / parrish parrish single Fin

SizeS: 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 Size: 7.5

Primarily targeted to the 2+1 set up. The curves and balance on this fin are quite exceptional. Charlie Smith is the artist here. We highly recommend you consider this fin. Expect smooth and powerful turns with great hold. There are only 3 sizes here and all of them deliver!

Classic ‘70s era single fin! Tom Parrish is known for those beautiful pipeline, single fin guns, that everybody dreamed about in the mid ‘70s. This fin is a bit refined from what was used then but all elements remain: a wide base and nice curves sloping to a narrower tip.

THE BEST 2+1 COMBOThe 3.7” sidebite works amazing with this fin for a looser feeling

on 2+1 boards.

( Full base )

Cut away

SizeS: 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5

One of our timeless shapes. This design is mostly delegated to the 2+1 set up. There is no other fin combination that makes longboarding seem so easy. You will be making turns when and wherever you want. We recommend this fin for anyone that may want to start surfing on a longboard.

squirrel Cut away ta noserider

SizeS: 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 SizeS: 8.75 | 9.25 | 9.75

Developed in Florida, for riders that want high maneuverability. Whether you use this as a 2+1 fin for your mini longboard or as a dedicated single fin, this fin will deliver an ease to turns not experienced with most other fins. The very slender base and middle section help to loosen up turns, while the full tip down low in the water create forward drive. A great choice for creative experimentation.

This is a large area fin that offers solid nose riding potential! When this fin is on the tail of your single fin log, you are locked in and nothing is going to slow you down. Maybe not the easiest fin to turn but you got this design to hold no matter what. A staple fin from an era gone by.

MID RANGE SIZES FOR 2+1 SETUPThe most popular sizes for a 2+1 setup

are the 7”, 7. 5” and 8”. For more radical fin experimentation

try the smaller sizes.

hobie ClassiC

SizeS: 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

As Mark Johnson of Hobie once said “ This is just a plane vanilla design.” The curves and balanced area are anything but! A very well thought out fin that works in a wide range of equipment. A design that is very pleasing to the eye.

SMALLeR SizeS( 7”- 8” )

The 7” is a great small board single fin.

LARGeR SizeS( 9” - 10”)

The 9” carves smooth turns for shorter

longboards.

hobie alter hobie Flex

Size: 9.5 Size: 8.5

From catamarans to sunglasses, the Hobie logo is silk screened onto everything you can imagine, but it remains a symbol of the classic surfing aesthetic. The Hobie Alter template, much like today’s Hobie board designs, upholds a classic noseriding influence while paying heed to functionality and maneuverability.

The crew at Hobie created their own flex fin. It is not an extreme flex design. The moderate area of this fin allow it to be used in many board designs. We like this one because it easily fits in a wide range of boards.

wayne riCh power

SizeS: 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5

We really like working with Wayne. He has an eye for great outlines and foils, like nobody else! The “Power” collection is dedicated to power surfing. The fuller base allows for more push which can be a big benefit when there is a long section ahead.

wayne riCh ClassiC wilderness

SizeS: 7 | 7.5 Size: 7.6

2 sizes for this one…. A very neutral center fin when used in combination for a three-fin set up. Ideal for those who would like easy turns and effortless surfing. This design can truly be put in the “classic” category. Your surfing ego will boost while using the “WR Classic”!

Just a great offering from Bob Duncan at Wilderness Surfboards! Use this one in a small single fin or in combination with 3 fins. The swept tip and slight flex create the drive needed to link the long sections found in our point waves. A specialized design for sure but you will be happy you have this in your quiver when you see real surf!

SMALLeR SizeS( 6” - 8” )

Use the 6.5 - 7.5 sizes as 2+1 center fins.

LARGeR SizeS ( 8.5” - 9.5”)

Use these sizes for your single fin.

side bites

SizeS: 3.25 | 3.7 | 4Side fins for 2+1 setup. With a flat inside foil, this template has great balance and will perform in a variety of boards and conditions. These are available in futures and fcs compatible and are made of truelite hexcore, for optimal flex and drive.

small box surF KayaK

SizeS: 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 SizeS: 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5

We cover a lot of territory with these small fins! Experimentation and necessity are the foundation for these little guys. The templates are a bit more straight up and not as full as traditional fins in this size range, yet they produce fantastic results! Use them wherever small fins are needed! We also make these with flat side foils for 3 fin set-ups.

Once you merely dotted the horizons, but now your boats are shorter and you dot surf lineups around the world. You get into waves earlier. You paddle with ease and grace. True Ames, unlike your other surfer counterparts, chooses to swallow our envy and offer to give you a little direction. That is, accept a set of precision-foil fiberglass for the control and maneuverability you desire. These fins come in sets of 3, or 2 if you only want the side sets. Side sets are flat inside foil. Mix and match for the perfect set up.

GREAT COMBINATIONS FOR 2+1 SETUPS

Try the Smith and Parrish Full Base fin with these 3.7” side bites

for a looser feeling.

SizeS: 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5

True Ames was first established in an old water tower in the bean fields on the fertile Oxnard plain. Just so happened the Campbell brothers had recently vacated that same water tower for better shaping quarters. After almost 35 years the True Ames/Campbell Brothers relationship continues as we are as stoked on developing and refining bonzer fins as ever!

In the quest to make the fins lighter and lighter we have introduced TrueLite, Hexcore, technology to both the runners and center fin. We are hoping to introduce a production version of the center fin in solid core bamboo, using our cad/cam machining project…stay tuned.

For more Technical information regarding the Bonzer set up see the Campbell brothers website…. www.bonzer5.com

bonzer Center Fins bonzer runners

SizeS: 6 | 6.5 | 7Set of Four( FRONT FINS )HEIGHT: 2.375” / 58 MMBASE: 4.75” / 121 MM

( BACK FINS )HEIGHT: 2.75” / 70 MMBASE: 5.25” / 135MM

Set of TwoHEIGHT: 3.0” / 75 MMBASE: 10.0” / 255 MM

Fin KeyHEx KEy FITS FCS AND FUTURESStandard size fin key for quick and easy installation.

evolution tee shirt logo tee shirt logo hoodieSizeS: S | M | L | XL SizeS: S | M | L | XL SizeS: S | M | L | XLThese vintage soft tees are extra comfortable and have a stylish look. They are a 60% Cotton / 40% Polyester blend for a great fit. This is a front logo print.

These vintage soft tees are extra comfortable and have a stylish look. They are a 60% Cotton / 40% Polyester blend. This is a back logo print with a 3” left chest print as well.

10 oz. 80/20 Zip Hooded Fleece. Ultra soft and nice and warm for those chilly morning surf checks!

hex sCrewSTAINLESS STEEL - HEx SCREWMetal screw and plate fits standard fin boxes. Hex screw compatible with hex fin keys.

Fin sCrewSTAiNLeSS STeeLMetal screw and plate fits standard fin boxes.

sKeg saverSTAINLESS STEEL -FIN PROTECTION SySTEMProtects against fin tab breakage, fin box damage, fin box delamination, Leading edge damage to the fin. Note: This product will only work with front load fins.

SizeS: S | M | L | XL

The evolutionary curve continues at True Ames with the construction of solid core bamboo and cedar fins. We are offering ultra light glass-on fins in a variety of templates that is rapidly growing. Fins are made in house using cad/cam for precision foils. We then apply a layer of glass and sand. The result is the highest quality wood fin ready for top-level board construction.

Check our website for further details, updated information regarding new templates, and a possible limited offering for fins that will fit in the standard long board fin box!

Gephart #1Bamboo

Hobie FishBamboo

Tyler Warren-SoapCedar

Parrish Modern Single 7.5”Bamboo

True Ames Fins6409 Camino Vista #AGoleta, CA 93117

Phone: 805.685.8341Fax: 805.562.8540

[email protected]

Introduction Written By: Ethan StewartDesign and Photography By: Ryan Kleiner

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