Boxes are installed underneath the glass for strength, and a watertight installation and extra layers of glass are added over the boxes for additional strength.
Find all of the details about the system and its various components.
Details on how to install the systems effectively. Describes the entire process and provides tips on how to improve success.
A Starter Kit provides everything needed to get up and running with the system quickly.
Our newest generation GEARBOX box takes the system to the next level.
Based on our experience with the current generation, we decided to upgrade GEARBOX. This newer version is easier to install, stronger, and allows for more adjustment. The shape has also been enhanced to improve stability once installed. A completely new installation system has been designed to complement the design changes.
The heart of the system is the box. Both the outline and bottom are an elliptical shape.
This shape effectively distributes load forces and increases foam stability.
The most unique feature is the elliptically domed dam.
This shape allows the glass cloth to drape over the dam easily, making it simple to get a clean, air-free lamination over the box.
More importantly, it means the layers of cloth over the box fit tight to the dam, enhancing the integrity of the installation.
Boxes are installed underneath the glass for strength, and a watertight installation and extra layers of glass are added over the boxes for additional strength.
The system features 3/8" of adjustment, enabling the fine-tuning of the fins. Adjusting fins can have a massive impact on performance.
Everything about the design of the system was geared towards strength. It starts with an elliptical shape that provides maximum stability and load dissipation.
The box has a unique dam shape that simplifies installation by allowing the glass to drape over the box effortlessly. Utilizes a single rout install method.
A complete routing system is provided to simplify the installation process.
A complete routing system is provided to simplify the installation process.
This system includes a routing jig to guide the router when creating a cavity in the surfboard foam—a router base with an integrated guide bushing for Makita trim routers.
A layout guide also fits within the jig to position it on the shaper's marks.
Finally, there is a router bit and depth gauge.
Additionally, a trim spacer is provided so that the router can be used to trim down the box's dam.
There is much to learn about this new system, and we provide information to make this easy.
We provide as much information as possible to help our customers be successful with the new system.
To this end, we have a lot of different resources that can be helpful. These include layout guides to help pick the perfect fin setup. As well as information on the system and the requirements for fins to fit this box.
A fin primer is also provided, which can help understand the results of changes to the fin setup.
This primer offers a lot of information about fin setups and what the effects are of specific changes. It also covers some of the terminology used in these discussions.
A wide range of fin layout guides are available for download. These cover all of the modern layout styles for both surfboards and kneeboards.
Technical details are provided for the system. These cover details, such as the base of the fin, to correctly fit a GB24 box.
"I have been using the GEARBOX fin system for many years now.
After reconnecting friendships with Robin Mair and Lancelot Pearson, I realized that GEARBOX is the surfer shaper experience you have with the HANALEI FINS, which go hand in hand with this surf science fin system created by Robin.
In 2024, another installation kit will make it much easier to install. The new GB24 dome box is elegant and beautifully designed. It has 3/8" [10 mm] of adjustment forward and back and strength in design due to the shape.
Once you team up with HANALEI FINS and GEARBOX, your product will upgrade in quality."
Mick Pierce
Shaper/Designer
Eastern Light Surfboards, Australia
"I love the new GB24 boxes!
One rout installation is quick and easy, and the alignment system is accurate. The new roundtop design eliminates all bubbles.
Super strong, too. I’ve crashed into the reef and ripped out my fin. The boxes were fine. The fiberglass fin was damaged. They look great. Work great. And are an overall improvement to the GEARBOX system."
Mitch Haynie
Chief Test Pilot
Mitchin Hawaii
"I have used the GB24 boxes in all my builds for six months. I love that they have different cants in the box, so I only need to cut one even hole when using the high-density insert. Most of my boards have many double concaves and/or channels with VEE, so with this system, I can play around with the different angled fin plugs to find the perfect one.
The last board I built was an 80s twin replica with a huge amount of vee and channels. I reversed the 4-degree box, which gave me the exact cant for the fins I wanted. The jig also came in handy here, as it has little feet you can take in and out, omitting the need for shims. The jig is also clear, so you can see what you are cutting.
I also make my own timber and fiberglass fins. I only used glass-on fins on my boards before. Now, with a full slot, I can make a timber fin with enough strength in the base without worrying about cant.
I also found out that the box is very strong. I landed on a rock in the last swell, and the fin split at the top. There was zero damage to the box or board!"
Aaron Vanderstaay
Shaper/Designer/Builder
AV Timber Surfboards / Moon Eagle Surfboards, Australia
"I have been using GEARBOX and HANALEI FINS for 12 years plus.
In that time, I can honestly say that the GEARBOX system was the best I had used. The boxes are light but amazingly strong and don’t break even with larger twins and keels.
The latest GEARBOX permits approximately 3/8" of forward and backward movement, which is quite helpful with asymmetrical boards.
HANALEI FINS, designed and made by Robin Mair, are the most progressive fins on the market. I have used so many different shapes and sizes. Although I have often been skeptical at first glance, the results when surfing them are truly amazing. The turns are quicker, the fins faster, and the feeling is unlike any other.
I strongly recommend Robin Mair’s GB24 and HANALEI FINS to anyone who wishes to get more out of their boards and surfing.
Cheers."
Russell Lewis
Shaper/Designer
Reverse Logic Surfboards, Hawai'i
Check out our sister site for our fantastic range of high-performance fins.
HANALEI FINS has consistently produced high-quality, genuinely unique advanced fins.
There is nothing like them on the market, and the range is extensive.
Check them out.
GB24 takes the GEARBOX fin system to the next level, adding simplicity, adjustability, strength, and ease of installation.
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