Boxes are placed beneath the glass to ensure structural integrity and a watertight installation.
Our latest generation GEARBOX product elevates the system to another level.
Drawing from our experience with the current generation, we have upgraded GEARBOX to be stronger, more user-friendly, and more adjustable. We have enhanced its shape for improved stability after installation and have designed a new installation system to align with these enhancements.
The box serves as the heart of the system. Both its outline and bottom display an elliptical shape.
The shape distributes load forces and enhances foam stability.
Its standout feature is the elliptically domed frame and dam, which allows the glass cloth to drape smoothly over it, making it easy to achieve a clean, air-free lamination.
Additionally, this design ensures that the cloth layers fit snugly against the dam, reinforcing the installation.
Boxes are placed beneath the glass to ensure structural integrity and a watertight installation.
The system provides 3/8" of adjustment for precise fine-tuning, which greatly influences performance.
The system's design emphasizes strength in every aspect. The elliptical shape maximizes stability while effectively distributing loads.
The box features a unique dam shape that facilitates effortless installation, allowing the glass to drape over it smoothly. It uses a single rout installation method.
A comprehensive routing system streamlines installation.
This comprehensive kit includes a router jig, a replacement router base specifically designed for Makita trim routers, a detailed layout guide for accurately positioning the jig on the shaper marks, a router bit with a guide bearing, a depth gauge, and a trim spacer for precise dam trimming.
There is a lot to learn about this new system, and we offer information to make this easier.
We provide as much information as possible to help our customers succeed with the new system.
To this end, we offer a variety of resources that can be beneficial. These include layout guides to assist in selecting the ideal fin setup, as well as information about the system and the requirements for fins to fit this box.
A fin layout primer is also provided, which can help users understand the results of changes to the fin setup.
This primer provides extensive information about fin setups and the effects of specific changes. It also covers some terminology used in these discussions.
A variety of fin layout guides are available for download. These cover all modern layout styles for both surfboards and kneeboards.
Technical details are provided for the system. These details cover aspects such as the base of the fin to ensure a proper fit for a GB24 box.
"I have been using the GEARBOX fin system for many years. After reconnecting with Robin Mair and Lancelot Pearson, I realized that GEARBOX is the surfer shaper experience you have with the HANALEI FINS, which pair perfectly with this surf science fin system created by Robin.
In 2024, a new installation kit will simplify the installation process.
The new GB24 dome box is elegant and beautifully designed. It offers 3/8" [10 mm] of adjustment both forward and backward, and its design provides added strength due to its shape.
Once you team up with HANALEI FINS and GEARBOX, your product will see a quality upgrade."
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. 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 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 feature multiple double concaves and/or channels with VEE, so with this system, I can experiment with the various angled fin plugs to find the perfect one.
The last board I built was an '80s twin replica with a significant amount of vee and channels. I reversed the 4-degree box, giving me the exact cant for the fins I desired. The jig also proved helpful here, as it has little feet that can be inserted or removed, eliminating the need for shims. Additionally, the jig is transparent, allowing you to see what you are cutting.
I also make my own timber and fiberglass fins. Previously, I only used glass-on fins for my boards. Now, with a full slot, I can create a timber fin with sufficient strength in the base without worrying about cant.
I also discovered 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 over 12 years.
During that time, I can honestly say that the GEARBOX system has been the best I’ve ever used. The boxes are light yet incredibly strong and don’t break even with larger twins and keels.
The latest GEARBOX allows for approximately 3/8" of forward and backward movement, which is quite helpful for asymmetrical boards.
HANALEI FINS, designed and made by Robin Mair, are the most progressive fins on the market. I have tried many different shapes and sizes. Although I was initially skeptical, the results of surfing with them are truly amazing. The turns are quicker, the fins are faster, and the sensation is unlike any other.
I strongly recommend Robin Mair’s GB24 and HANALEI FINS to anyone who wants to get more out of their boards and surfing.
Cheers."
Russell Lewis
Shaper/Designer
Reverse Logic Surfboards, Hawai'i
Visit our sister site to explore our fantastic range of high-performance fins.
HANALEI FINS consistently produces high-quality, truly unique advanced fins.
There is nothing like them on the market, and the range is extensive.
Check them out.
Evolution of a fin system
GB24 takes the GEARBOX fin system to the next level, adding simplicity, adjustability, strength, and ease of installation.
GEARBOX Surf Hawai'i
Hanalei, Kauai
+1 808 639 5303
SANDED Australia
NSW, Australia
+61 243 399 580
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Effective Date: 2025-06-02
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