The swallow tail has a great deal of hold and traction. The upside down V shape in the tail gives the board control and fast movements out of turns giving it more drive in between turns to get over fat/softer sections on the wave. These tails are commonly found on boards such as a fish, and is suited to smaller waves.

What is the benefit of a fish tail surfboard?

The fish surfboard is also highly capable at catching waves in small wave situations because of the wide template at the tail. There's more planing surface to keep you afloat. A wide tail also provides great drive down line, which is very important when the waves are small.

Who invented the swallow tail surfboard?

Split-tailed surfboard design, refined by Hawaiian surfer-boardmaker Ben Aipa in 1972. "With a swallowtail," TransWorld Surf magazine noted in 2003, "you have the width and volume for speed, while the split at the end means the wide planing surface will loosen up, making the board easier to turn."