This picture is an example for a fixed fin made of that material. Check with where you bought it whether it suits your model, then follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Took your board out of the bag and the fixed fin looks bent? Before you bend it back hard by hand, check what material and construction it is. This picture is a care example for one specific flexible fixed fin.
01. Tell fixed fins and removable fins apart
The original is about flexible fixed fins attached to the board. It isn't guidance for handling removable fins, rigid carbon or composite fins, or fin boxes the same way.
If you're not sure whether this method suits your model, have photos and the product name ready and ask where you bought it. It's also better not to treat a crack or a lifting attachment point as simple bending.
02. The tools in the picture aren't a fix for every product
The picture shows softening the material with a hair dryer, reshaping it, then using tape and cold water. It doesn't, however, give a general heating temperature or time.
More heat for longer doesn't mean it will straighten better. You also need to keep electrical appliances and water safely apart, so for the actual work, put the manufacturer's instructions and a professional check first.
03. Reduce pressure points the next time you store it
Even after reshaping, look at the condition of the fin and where it attaches, and if a problem remains, have it checked before use. Just because it looks right, like in the photo, it's hard to tell whether there's no damage.
When you fold the board, check that the fin isn't bent too far or pressed against hard parts. Looking at this together with the board-folding picture below helps reduce repeated deformation.
Sources and scope
The artwork is Starboard's original care example for a flexible fixed fin; the explanation is Starboard Korea's commentary. It doesn't apply to every fin, fin box or carbon/composite part, and we don't guess at temperatures or heating times.
The illustration is Starboard's original artwork; the explanation is Starboard Korea's editorial guide, translated into English here. Sources checked: 2026-09-08.
