Feathers are often longer than vanes, making them susceptible to wind drift when shooting at great distances. Vanes are more robust and water-resistant than feathers, making them popular among bowhunters for withstanding rainy weather and brush assault. Vanes exist in a range of forms and sizes, according to Arnold. Some are flat, while others are rounded. Some are straight, while others have slightly angled ends. The design of the vane determines how much it will affect shot patterns when used in an arrow. Vanes are made from fiberglass, carbon fiber, or wood. They may also be made from metal or plastic. However, because they are usually hand-made, prices can vary significantly. Carbon fiber vanes are the most expensive option, followed by wooden vanes and then fiberglass vanes. Metal vanes are the least expensive option. All vanes have some degree of flex to them. This is because no matter what material is used, they will always need to bend in order to fit into an arrow shaft. However, this flexibility allows carbon fiber and wood vanes to move more freely in response to wind conditions. This means they can change the amount of lift that is applied to the arrow, which in turn changes the distance that the arrow flies. Fiberglass vanes do not have this flexibility and so tend to stay put once they are attached to an arrow. Carbon fiber vanes are the only option for high-end arrows.