How to Fit the Perfect FIns
A pair of diving fins are part of the basic equipment for a diver’s mobility. Which fin is right for you? Let me guide you.
There are many types of fins and mainly they fall into two categories. A full-foot fin can be worn barefoot as it does not require boots, and an open-heel fin requires boots.
Full-Foot Fins
These fins are flexible, lightweight, and worn without boots. They tend to be worn in warm water for diving or snorkeling. They tend to cost less than open-heeled fins and a major disadvantage is that they tend to cause blisters on your feet.
Open-Heeled Fins
Divers usually opt for open heels. Wearing boots with this type of fin is a must which will keep your feet warm when you dive into cold water and provide full exposure protection for your feet before or after shore dives.
They are generally wider, longer, and stiffer than full-footed fins. That also means these fins are stronger, which is an advantage in open water.
This is the most fragile part of the open-heel fin is the strap, so don’t forget to carry an extra strap when traveling.
Traditional Fins
These fins are all-around dive fins and can be either full-foot or open-heeled. This style is usually used with a flutter kick.
The sails retain their shape but are flexible enough to propel, a powerful thrust to face currents in the water.
Some models are very stiff and may require more leg strength. Paddle fins are stronger than split fins because they help push water back and propel you forward through the water. The length and stiffness of the paddle fins are also different. These two factors influence the required speed and pedaling power. Higher stiffness means faster forward speed, but harder to pedal and is good in stronger currents.
Split Fins
A relatively new option for divers, the split fin has the same shape as the fishtail but has a slot in the middle. This slot creates a vortex that helps the diver achieve optimal thrust and speed underwater, rather than simply moving forward.
Split fins act like propellers. The slots allow the water to flow smoothly on the upward fin stroke and into the foil shape from both sides of the blade. This shape allows you to propel yourself through the water by creating just the right amount of buoyancy. However, split fins will not allow you to swim faster than your current speed. The longer and harder the kicks with these dive fins, the less efficient the flow design. This design also creates less forward thrust.
These scuba fins have their drawbacks, including reduced swimming speed and kicking power. Regular fins excel in both departments as they give you stronger force underwater. You can also use blade fins in a wider variety of situations, from technical dives to rescues.
Technical Fins
They are heavier than traditional fins and are mainly used in dry and technical diving.
They are made from a single piece of molded rubber that is stronger than other types of fins. They’re also shorter and stiffer, better suited to frog kicks, and provide excellent propulsion. Their spring-strap design makes them easier to get on and off, and they’re ideal for close-quarters positioning and turning.
How To Size Your Fins
Fin sizing is similar to shoe sizing. The sizes are very close.
Men should start with a fin size that matches their shoe size. A woman’s starting point is usually one size smaller than her shoe size.
If you choose open-heel fins and wear boots with your fins, buy the boots first. Boots should be worn when trying on dive fins to get the correct size and fit.
Try them on and see how they feel. If you wear boots, you may want to go up one fin size depending on the thickness and sole of the boot. Scuba fins should fit like shoes. Not too loose, not too tight. It should fit snugly without pinching anything.
With your heel fins open, adjust the straps to their loosest position and insert your foot. Adjust the straps for a snug fit.
Open heel fins require the foot to protrude a few inches behind the heel of the boot, with the upper lip in line with the instep.
If your feet are too far forward in your pocket, the fins may be too big.
With full-foot scuba fins, the fins should fit snugly without taking up too much space. No need to struggle to put them on.
Shake tests should be done on both types of fins. Sit down and swing your legs in all directions. The fins should feel secure, but not scrape or pinch anywhere. If you feel stuck and cramped, try one size up. If there is a lot of movement when swinging your feet, please go down a size and try again.
Proper fitting fins help in having a nice and comfortable dive.
Natalie and I both dive with ScubaPro Seawing Nova’s when not traveling. They come in many colors so don’t be shy. They provide rocket-type thrust through open water with ease. They are great for tight spots with little to no ankle or leg strain.
We use ScubaPro GO Sport Fin when traveling. This fin is a fast and nimble performer in the water. They fit in our carry-on luggage making it great for travel.
Scuba Fin Care and Maintenance
There’s not a lot to do here so you should be able to use your diving fins for scuba for years to come. Some tips on fin care:
1. Rinse thoroughly – Rinse your fins in fresh water after each dive. The salt could start eroding the dive fins.
2. Dry thoroughly – Let the fins dry thoroughly before storing your fins. You don’t want any unpleasant surprises when you go to pull them out for your next dive.
3. Keep out of direct sunlight
4. Store in cool, dry place – Do not store fins in the trunk of your car. The temperature in the trunk can get awfully high if it is in sunlight. Excess heat can warp the fins.
5. Do not store fins on the tips – The blades of the fins could distort if they are stored on their tips.
6. Avoid contact with oil, aerosol, chemical solvents, etc. – Coming in contact with any of these materials can cause the fins to begin to erode or degrade.
