Skishing with Grip Studs

When skishing, I prefer long split fins for maximum propulsion with minimal effort.  My Tusa fins provide just that.  But!  Like other long split fins, they have soft 1/4″ thick heels— which is not a stable platform for studs.  Using high density polyethylene (HDPE), I made a cleat for each fin.   I pre-drilled 5/16″ holes into the cleats and threaded #1800 Grip Studs into the holes using the GripStuds tool on a power drill.  After securing the Grip Studs to the cleats, I mounted the studded cleats to the heels of my Tusa fins using marine epoxy and 3/4″ aluminum posts and screws.   In theory this fin traction solution should work.  Theory is good for academics.   When skishing, gear failure can be life altering.   I field tested this setup on the reacherous rocky shoreline of Cuttyhunk Island, Massachusetts while my friend Jonathan O’Connor worked my GoPro.

OMG!  The Grip Studs griped on the slippery rocks ornamenting the shoreline of Cuttyhunk Island without compromise!  The HDPE cleat kept the Grip Studs vertical whilst supporting my full body weight.  But, in order for this setup to work, your feet need to be all the way into the large “boots” of your fins.  This will keep your centre of gravity above the cleats, which helps you maintain your balance as you negotiate entry and exit over slippery rocks.   The marine epoxy failed to adhere to the HDPE under pressure.  It’s a good thing I had the aluminum posts and screws!  I have since completely removed the marine expoxy and added two additional aluminum posts and screws to each fin.

When it comes to negotiating a safe entry and exit across a rocky shore line, I trust my Portuguese bottom with field-proven Grip Studs.  No screws through soft 1/4″ thick rubber for me!

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