FIN FOR A FIN is a new social enterprise and symbol that represents the coexistence of sharks and surfers.

The symbol has been applied to custom surf fins, intentionally designed to act as a visual signal that alerts authorities to a surfer’s wishes for a shark not to be killed in retaliation to an attack. As sometimes the surf fins are the only thing that survive. The symbol tells the world “If my life’s taken, don’t take theirs.”

Rolled out across multiple touchpoints, the brand is creating a wide spread messaging system. Fronted by shark attack survivor and advocate, Mike Coots, the symbol enables surfers to state their beliefs, while helping to protect themselves and sharks.

Profits are funding mobile shark alert service, Dorsal, and educating people on shark behaviour through charity, Tag For Life. Creating a cycle of coexistence. Not killing.

The FIN FOR A FIN brand marque represents the coming together of both surfers and sharks, symbolised by their two fins. Applied to custom thruster sets and longboard fins, they’re more than just a powerful statement, they’re designed to perform. Made from hand-foiled fiberglass, then cut out with high-pressure water jets and shaped by hand, the fins are made for high performance manoeuvers. The two-colour combination of black and grey nods to the natural colour of sharks.

The brand’s interaction extends beyond surfers and fins. Anyone can show their support across collateral including board stickers, t-shirts and towels, social as well as the web platform where they can purchase the products.

FIN FOR A FIN’s impact is further extended with a global registry. This enables surfers to register their wishes on a searchable database, letting next of kin and authorities know they want the shark protected.

FIN FOR A FIN has been embraced by surfers and shark conservationists alike.

Shark killing is a divisive issue across the world. As a social enterprise and symbol, FIN FOR A FIN gives a voice to surfers who want to publically declare their stance on the protection of the sharks, even in the wake of tragedy. And in doing so, is empowering them to fund a cycle of coexistence.

FIN FOR A FIN has already sparked a new and positive conversation, amplifying the voices of a niche demographic of surfers, who are also shark conservationists. Their support has enabled the production of the fins beginning in June 2017.

With zero media budget, over 1.5 million people were introduced to the product in the first week of launch.