Sonic
Sonic
SUP Racing Fin Maximum Agility In Ocean, Surf & Downwind Racing
$175.00
SUP Race Fin For Maximum Maneuverability For Advanced Level Paddlers
The Sonic is a SUP racing and downwind fin designed to maximize board maneuverability and speed. Ideal for advanced and professional paddlers looking to enhance their flow on downwinders, this small fin utilizes a surfing-inspired curved outline with a narrow cord and thinner foil to help paddlers ride and connect swells at speed. Ideally suited to downwind conditions, this fin also performs well in technical surf races, shallow water and rivers with a strong flow and debris. In situations when the fastest racing line is not a straight line, the Sonic enables you to seek out and connect the fastest bumps, waves and sections of flowing water.
- A small fin (18cm / 7.09” & 193cm2 / 29.9 in2 ).
- Designed for advanced and professional paddlers in downwind and surf races.
- Progressive Surf Concept (PSC) for easy carving and control on swells.
- Surfing-inspired outline maximizes agility and flow in ocean racing.
- Short fin base increases positional tuning options, even with short fin boxes.
- The small size, surfing orientated outline & narrow cord make this fin ideal for rapid changes of direction.
- Complete with premium fin cover, fin screw, leash string and board sticker.
- Deep Foil Concept (DFC) for enhanced efficiency.
- 30T Pre-Preg carbon construction, lighter, stronger, faster.
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Reviews (13)
Sonic
13 reviews
SUP fin with solid performance
March 17, 2022 at 3:47 pm
Just started my intensive paddling course and equipped my stuff with the best SUP equipment Sonic will give you solid performance on speed and maneuver, perfect suits for those who find a speed and maneuverability in buoy turning. Glad to be part of this community.
Sonic fin Rocks
October 28, 2021 at 3:19 pm
I have a Flying Fish Freedom 13’X25”. The Find I have are the Tiger and the Sonic. The Sonic allows a lot of freedom and speed on all water conditions. Great tracking and side to side movement when weight shifting. Maximum maneuverability 100%it’s now my go to fin!! Also Black Project has great customer service I ordered the wrong fin base Chris J was really quick to make sure I got the right fin base. I couldn’t be happier!!
"There can be only one"
October 20, 2021 at 1:44 am
I’ve got the Tiger, Sonic and Condor…. the go to for all conditions is the Sonic. Tracks well. Fast!!! Flat water, ocean, downwind and racing this is the one fin if you can choose only one. It pivots well for the over all length of the fin. Light weight. If you’re a seasoned paddler this is the one for you!
My “Does it all” fin
October 17, 2021 at 7:33 pm
I had been paddling for several months and had gained a lot of confidence and endurance and was looking for more speed. I spoke with Chris and he recommended the Sonic Fin. Since then I have used it on paddles up to 41 miles long in all kinds of conditions. It does it all. The Sonic does not disappoint!
My go-to fin
September 9, 2021 at 6:51 am
The Sonic has become my go-to fin this summer. Good speed and tracking in many different conditions and sheds weeds like no fin I’ve ever owned. I do a distance race almost every year on a tidal river where weeds are a real problem in once section; this was the first year I didn’t need to stop to clean off my fin. I picked up no weeds (and I won the race). If I only had to own one fin, this would be the one.
Sonic!!
August 30, 2021 at 1:45 pm
It is very light and has great speed at the beginning of pedaling, less stable than the Ray, but it has the speed and turn performance to replace it. In technical situations, it will show its full potential.
New Improved V2!
August 11, 2021 at 7:55 am
Really liking the V2’s shorter chord and base and lighter weight (-25 g!) after replacing my prior favorite V1 Sonic. It turns and deals with current eddies better while preserving the tracking of the V1. I own a full library of fins and now feel like it could be distilled down to just this fin and the Maliko.
Tracks well, super light
February 9, 2021 at 6:06 am
I picked up a Black Projects’ Sonic for my 425Pro Outlaw. I am mostly a flat water/river paddler….with aspirations of downwinding, surfing and not struggling in choppy ocean races. Sonic was about midway in fin box, stability was really quite good at even slow speeds. I was having much better luck with steering footwork than ever before and tracked really well. At a full stop, it was slightly wobblier than my normal large fin and after an hour of interval work I was a bit wobbly here and there, but that is probably from first hard and over an hour workout since end of racing season . I really am glad I bought this fin!! I look forward to checking it out in the ocean!
Sonic ..
May 14, 2020 at 11:16 am
This fin..it’s in the name..paddle as fast as Sonic the hedgehog. Love doing technical surf ocean ins/outs with this fin ..can turn the board on a whim and ride waves like a short board with it 🙂
Very Responsive
May 11, 2020 at 9:52 am
I have both the Sonic and the Tiger fins for my RS and find the Sonic to be the go-to for open water and downwind, exactly as designed. The board just loosens up underfoot with the Sonic and steers better on the bumps or tide eddies. Given neutral feet and calm water, tracking with the Sonic is great. Fit and finish are Formula 1 level.
Good balance between stability and looseness.
May 10, 2020 at 10:13 pm
This fin releases really well between bumps, but still paddles straight when needed. Not as straight-line or buoy turn stable as the Tiger, but that’s not what you want when cutting diagonal across bumps on a downwind.
I’ve been using the Sonic for a month now in every condition imaginable.
October 23, 2019 at 8:48 am
I’ve been using the Sonic for a month now in every condition imaginable – flat water, race, surf, bump, and current. Incredible. The response to the conditions is amazing. It’s stable and keeps the board loose for turns – buoy and on the wave. It’s light, strong, and solid. Stoked on this fin. You will be, too.
Excellent fin for beach race and surf conditions.
March 2, 2019 at 8:24 pm
The sonic is an excellent fin for beach race and surf conditions that provides good handling in tight buoy turns and can be used as well in downwind conditions as it offers you an easy and accurate handling of the board once you’re on a bump. I would recommend this fin to anyone that wants to start getting into wave conditions with their race board.
Why Black Project?
Premium SUP paddles and fins designed to maximize performance, efficiency, and feel on the water.
Quality & Reliability
The finest materials, extensive testing, innovative manufacturing practices all backed by our efficient customer support to ensure products exceed the needs of enthusiasts.
Performance & Innovation
Relentless pursuit of innovation driven by a desire to enhance the performance of paddling equipment, delivering meaningful change and enhanced experiences.
Community & Environment
Active, committed, and supportive of the standup paddling community in a collaborate manner which enriches the lives of paddlers and nurtures the restoration of the environment.
Quality & Reliability
The finest materials, extensive testing, innovative manufacturing practices all backed by our efficient customer support to ensure products exceed the needs of enthusiasts.
Performance & Innovation
Relentless pursuit of innovation driven by a desire to enhance the performance of paddling equipment, delivering meaningful change and enhanced experiences.
Community & Environment
Active, committed, and supportive of the standup paddling community in a collaborate manner which enriches the lives of paddlers and nurtures the restoration of the environment.
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Step #3 – Exploring Fixed, Adjustable, & 3-Piece Shafts
Choosing the right shaft is just as important as choosing the blade. Shaft type, flex, diameter, and shape all impact comfort, control, and performance on the water. Don’t worry—we’ll break it all down so you can choose the right setup with confidence.
Understanding SUP Paddle Shafts: Types, Flex, Shape, and Diameter
Your paddle shaft is the connection between you and the water, influencing power transfer, comfort, injury prevention, and endurance performance. Whether you prefer a lightweight fixed shaft for maximum efficiency, an adjustable shaft for versatility, or a 3-piece design for travel, each option has its advantages. Weight, flex, shaft diameter, and shape further impact how your paddle feels and performs. In this section, we’ll explore the key factors to help you confidently choose the best shaft for your needs.
Racing & Touring Shaft Flex Guide
SUP Surfing Shaft Flex Guide
SUP Foiling Shaft Flex Guide
Recreational Shaft Flex Guide
SUP Paddle Shaft Flex Tips & FAQs
Relax—Don’t Stress About Shaft Flex
Choose the Right Shaft Style for Your Needs
From lightweight 1-piece designs to versatile 2-piece adjustable and travel-ready 3-piece options, we offer shaft configurations to match every paddler’s lifestyle and goals. Whether you prioritize weight savings, adjustability, or portability, there’s a setup built for you.
1-Piece Fixed (Custom built to Fit)
2-Piece Adjustable
Our FUSION adjustment system redefines adjustable paddles with an ergonomic design, internal marine grade brass pin, and Slick Rail Technology. Lightweight and durable, it ensures precise adjustments, resists sand and salt, and delivers a seamless paddling experience for paddlers of all levels.
Explore: FUSION – The Future of Adjustable SUP Paddles
3-Piece Adjustable
3-Piece Fixed (Custom built to Fit)
Innovative solution offering fixed paddle feel in a travel-ready 3-piece build.
Shaft Flex, Simplified.
Why SUP Shaft Flex Matters
Shaft flex is one of the most important and often misunderstood aspects of paddle performance. It affects how your paddle feels in the water, how much power you generate, and how much strain is transferred to your body. At Black Project, we tune flex by adjusting carbon grade, fiber layup, shaft shape, and diameter—so every paddler gets a paddle that feels responsive, comfortable, powerful, and efficient, no matter their size or paddling discipline.
Is Your Paddle Shaft Too Stiff? Here's How to Tell.
Is Your Paddle Shaft Too Soft? Signs to Watch For.
If your paddle blade is too big, you may experience these common issues:
The Benefits of Choosing the Right Shaft Flex
Getting the right shaft flex means you’ll paddle more efficiently, reduce strain on your body, and enjoy a better overall experience on the water. Here’s what you can expect:
What Do Black Project Shaft Flex Ratings Mean?
Paddle Shaft Shape Types and Terminology
Round
The most common cross section used.
Oval
An oval cross section design influences flex.
Straight
A consistent diameter throughout the shaft.
Tapered
Wider at the base and progressively thinner.
Every Stroke Starts Here – Black Project Carbon Shafts
Every Black Project shaft is crafted with 100% carbon construction, using premium Japanese Toray pre-preg carbon for exceptional performance and durability. From the ultra-responsive Tour Carbon, to the surf-optimized Apex, and the all-round Quest, each model is purpose-built to meet the demands of different paddling styles. Use the options below to explore and compare the shaft that’s best for your goals on the water.
Tour Carbon
APEX Carbon
QUEST Carbon
Lightweight. Responsive. Tuned for Excellence.
Tour Carbon
Apex Carbon
The Apex shafts also feature 30T pre-preg carbon laminates for reduced weight and increased paddling power. Being marginally stiffer than previous models the shafts have been optimized for the full range of paddlers. Available in both 29mm and 26mm straight round options. With the trend towards slightly higher volume SUP surf boards, we wanted to increase power slightly and these new shafts help us achieve this while maintaining our familiar flex, reducing fatigue, and safeguarding against injury – when the surf is good, we want you to make the most of it with long pain free sessions.
Quest Carbon
What to Consider When Choosing a SUP Paddle Shaft
Convenience Needs: Fixed vs. Adjustable vs. 3-Piece
Your paddling lifestyle plays a big role in shaft choice. If you want the lightest setup for pure performance, a 1-piece fixed shaft is ideal. Need versatility for sharing, changing boards, or evolving technique? A 2-piece adjustable shaft is the most flexible option. Traveling or tight on storage space? Go with a 3-piece travel paddle that fits in your bag without sacrificing performance.
Paddler Weight: More Power, More Stiffness
Paddler Height: Longer Paddles Flex More
Taller paddlers typically use longer paddles, which naturally flex more due to their length. To maintain consistent performance and feel, taller paddlers benefit from using stiffer flex ratings—especially for racing or high-output paddling. Shorter paddlers may prefer softer shafts to match their body type.
Prior Injuries or Joint Sensitivity
If you’ve experienced shoulder, elbow, wrist, or back issues, a slightly more flexible shaft can make a big difference. Added flex reduces shock and softens transitions during each stroke, easing the impact on joints without sacrificing performance.
Type of Paddling: Sprint, Surf, Foil, or Touring?
Ready to Get Your Paddle?
Order online for fast, direct delivery—or visit a trusted retailer for expert advice and in-person support.
Budget: Materials and Construction Matter
Hand Size: Match Grip to Fit
Shaft diameter has a big impact on comfort. Paddlers with smaller hands often find standard shafts tiring or hard to grip, especially over long sessions. Our Slim Fit shaft options offer a thinner diameter that enhances grip, reduces fatigue, and improves control—especially for youth, smaller paddlers, or women.
Chris’s Advice: Read the Chart, Then Read Your Body
Use our shaft flex chart as your starting point, then personalize your choice. Depending on your height, weight, paddling style, and physical condition, you’ll either choose a stiffer shaft, stay with the recommended option, or select a softer shaft.
If you’re heavier, taller, or prefer powerful, aggressive strokes, consider a stiffer shaft (lower flex number). If you’re lighter, recovering from an injury, or favor longer, relaxed paddling sessions, a shaft with more flex (higher number) will typically be beneficial.
One factor alone might not justify changing from the recommended stiffness unless you’re already at the upper or lower end of a range. However, if two or more factors align, even paddlers in the middle range should consider adjusting. The goal is to find the perfect balance for your paddling comfort and performance.
More Flex. Less Fatigue
SUP Racing Shaft Stiffness Guide (e.g. Hydro SynergyX, and Hydro SprintX)
This table is not designed to be a one-size-fits-all solution, shaft choice will depend on the paddler’s preference, height, and any previous injury. Stiffness recommendations are detailed according to paddle length, if your length crosses over remember that the higher the number = more flex, so if you are at the lower end of the weight range select the softer shaft (higher number) and if you are at the upper end of the range consider the stiffer shaft option (lower number). If you need help in selecting the right shaft flex, please view our Tour Carbon shaft (detailed) guide, 5-step guide, the FAQs or contact us.
Weight
(kg / lbs)
Paddle Length
65 - 78"
165 - 188cm
Paddle Length
74 - 85"
188 - 216cm
Shop SUP Race and Touring Paddles
Hydro TempoX 2-Piece Adj.
Racing & touring paddle with FUSION adjustment technology
$375.00
Hydro SprintX
Fast & Efficient – The SUP Paddle for Short & Middle-Distance Racing, Complete with Premium Bag
$650.00
Hydro SynergyX
Lightweight & Efficient – The SUP Paddle for Long-Distance Racing, Complete with Premium Bag
$650.00
Nexus
Precision & Responsiveness – The SUP Paddle for Dynamic Middle & Long-Distance Racing, Complete with Premium Bag
$650.00
Jump to Guide for:
SUP Surfing
SUP Foil
Recreational
SUP Surfing Shaft Stiffness Guide (e.g Surge)
Weight
(kg / lbs)
Recommended
Alternative
Shop SUP Surfing Paddles
Surge
Performance, Lightweight & Durable - The Best SUP Surf Paddle, with Premium Bag
$575.00
Surge 3-Piece
Lightweight & Travel-Ready – The Best SUP Surf Paddle with Travel Bag
$575.00
Jump to Guide for:
Racing & Touring
SUP Foil
Recreational
SUP Foil Paddle Shaft Stiffness Guide (e.g. FoilX)
Weight
(kg / lbs)
Paddle Length
60 - 72"
152 - 183cm
Paddle Length
70 - 80"
178 - 203cm
Shop SUP Foil Paddles
FoilX 2-Piece Adj.
Adjustable SUP Foil Paddle For Downwind, Flat Water & Surfing
$525.00
FoilX 3-Piece Adj.
3-Piece Adj. SUP Foil Paddle For Downwind, Flat Water & Surfing
$525.00
FoilX
SUP Foil Paddle For Downwind, Flat Water & Surfing
$575.00
Jump to Guide for:
Racing & Touring
SUP Surfing
Recreational
Recreation and Touring Shaft Guide (e.g Hydro TempoX, and Lava)
Weight
(kg / lbs)
Hydro TempoX
Lava
Shop Recreational and Touring Paddles
Lava 2-Piece Adj.
All-round paddle with Fusion adustment technology
$300.00
Lava 3-Piece Adj.
All-round travel paddle with FUSION adjustment technology
$350.00
Hydro TempoX 2-Piece Adj.
Racing & touring paddle with FUSION adjustment technology
$375.00
Nexus 2-piece Adj.
Smooth & Responsive – The 2-Piece Adjustable SUP Paddle for Racing, Fitness & Touring
$375.00
Nexus 3-piece Adj.
Smooth & Responsive – The 3-Piece SUP Paddle for Racing, Fitness & Touring, c/w Bag
$425.00
Jump to Guide for:
Racing & Touring
SUP Foil
Recreational
Not Sure Which Shaft Is Right For You?
Contact us for personalized recommendations based on your paddling goals, body weight, and experience level.
<< Previous Step
Step #2 – Finding the Right Blade Size for You
Next Step >>
Step #4 – Selecting a Handle For Comfort and Control
Frequently Asked Questions
We have collated some of the most frequently asked questions about paddles. If your question is not covered, on this page, in the 5-step guide or in these FAQs, you are encouraged to reach out to us for a personal consultation or support.
Thanks to our innovative designs, quality manufacturing and attention to detail, our paddles have a very low failure rate. For your peace of mine, we have a standard 1-year warranty to cover faulty manufacturing. Thanks to hot glue assembly it is possible to replace any damaged parts. If you feel that you have an issue which you feel should be covered, please contact us for support.
We want you to be 100% satisfied with your new paddle. If something goes wrong, we are here to help resolve any issues in a fast and effective manner. Please contact us for support.
We ship to all 50 U.S. states and worldwide directly from Maui, Hawaii.
Every order is sent via FedEx 2-Day, ensuring a fast, reliable, and hassle-free delivery experience.
Shipping costs are based on the products in your order — and you’ll only ever pay one shipping fee. For example, if you order two paddles and a fin, you’ll be charged for just one paddle shipment.
Each package is carefully prepared in Maui and delivered safely to your door, ready for your next session.
Explore shipping rates for domestic and international orders
For maximum paddling enjoyment and performance, it is extremely important to choose the right paddle for your needs. At Black Project we pride ourselves in providing first class support and offer you a 1:1 paddle consultation via email, text, phone, or in person at our Maui workshop.
Ask a questions and arrange a consultation
Yes, if your local SUP store is an official Black Project retail partner they will be able to arrange your new paddle. If they are not currently one of our retailers you can either buy online or ask them to get in contact with us.
Refer to our Dealer Locator Map to find your closest store.
Paddle length paddle depends on your height, the type of standup paddling you are doing and the board you use. The correct length will protect your body against injury and maximize your performance. For recreational paddling and inflatables your paddle will be longer while for SUP surfing paddlers use shorter paddles. Use our paddle length guide to determine the correct length. Refer to the paddle specific guides on each product page.
Get your paddle length
Yes, our 1-piece paddles are assembled with hot glue. You can heat up the shaft just below the handle to remove it, and then shorten the shaft. We have a number of guides on our YouTube channel which explain the process. Be sure to use quality extra-strength, high temp, hot glue and not hobby grade glue. This is particularly useful if you move to different board or change focus.
How to correctly measure paddle length
How to shorten your paddle
We offer paddles for all types of standup paddling, racing, touring, foiling, surfing, and all-round recreation. Finding the right paddle which best fits your needs in terms of performance, price and preference is extremely important. Check out our guide to determine which paddle is best for you.
Choosing the right paddle for your experience, budget, and needs
Blade size depends on paddler weight, height, the type of standup paddling you are doing and any prior medical issues. Bigger blades offer more power and are suited to heavier paddlers while smaller paddler will want to select a much smaller blade size. Many paddlers are using the wrong size blade and that is reducing their enjoyment of the sport. Use our blade size guide to determine the correct size for you.
Find the correct size blade for your weight
All Black Project paddles have carbon reinforced edges and can withstand a good amount of abuse. The use of protective tape is not needed for general consumer use.
All Athlete Series and Ultimate Series paddles, as well as our 3-piece travel paddles, are supplied complete with a Black Project Paddle Bag unless otherwise stated. Some models are supplied without a bag. For example, the FoilX does not include a paddle bag. Bag inclusion is clearly shown on each product page. Black Project Paddle Bags can also be purchased separately. Some US and international retailers may offer paddles without a bag at an adjusted price. We strongly recommend protecting your paddle with a quality padded bag, ideally a Black Project Paddle Bag.
View Paddle Bag
View 3-Piece Paddle Bag
Paddles are very expensive to design, produce and ship, hence the price which you pay for your Black Project paddle is extremely reasonable. We have cut out a number of business layers and work directly with customers and smaller independent retailers to ensure that markups are reasonable. If we operated a more traditional business structure paddles would be 50-100% more expensive. Standup paddling is a small sport so it is hard to produce enough units to benefit from mass production and gain significant economies of scale.
Yes, our componentized paddle system enables you to swap or replace parts. If you decide that you want to change blade, shaft, or handle, due to preferences or damage, thanks to our hot glue assembly, this is possible and saves you needing to buy a completely new paddle. This is especially important for SUP foiling.
SUP paddles are not one-size-fits-all, and different factors come into play when determining the ideal paddle length. That’s why many of our SUP paddles offer a wide 30cm (12 inches) range of non-twist adjustment. This means you can easily adjust the paddle length to suit your height, paddle board, water conditions, and paddling style. Whether you prefer a shorter paddle for your SUP surfing sessions or a longer paddle length for relaxed touring, our adjustable paddle options have you and your Ohana (family) covered. Toggle Content
Absolutely! As part of our commitment to exceptional service, we provide a free personal consultation with Chris Freeman, a renowned expert in the SUP industry. Chris, with his extensive knowledge and expertise, will personally guide you through the process of selecting the perfect paddle and fin based on your height, paddling style, and preferences. At Black Project SUP, we believe in going the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction and success on the water. Don’t miss out on this invaluable opportunity – contact us today to schedule your free personal consultation with Chris Freeman.
Recommended Paddle Resources
Black Project Unscripted Ep.2 | SurfGrip vs PowerGrip, Fins, TourCarbon Shafts & 3-Piece Paddles
Black Project Unscripted Ep.1 | Fixed vs Adjustable + Paddle Setup & Shipping
Introducing Black Project Unscripted Video Series: Your Paddling Questions—Answered
Introducing the Ultimate Series: Redefining Paddle Construction
The Black Project Three-Tier Concept: A Clear Pathway to Performance
Built to Evolve: Why Black Project Uses Hot Glue Paddle Assembly
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