Fins

The creation and advancement of fins has become a science. Without them scuba diving is almost impossible; with them scuba diving is a dream of fluid underwater movement. adjustable fins allow you to propel yourself through the water with the least amount of energy and effort. When you are fully clothed in your scuba diving attire, including: wet suit, bcd, tank and weights - moving in the water can be almost impossible and extremely tiring. The right pair of fins will allow you to go further and swim faster using the large muscles in your thighs.

There is an incredible selection of swim fins to choose from. There are fins shaped like a dolphin's tail, fins with channels like the webbed feet of a duck, split swim fins, curved swim fins, stiff swim fins and flexible swim fins. The choice is almost overwhelming, but advantageous for the wide variety of scuba divers. Each pair of swim fins will perform differently on different people, so you want to choose the right scuba diving fin for you. You want to make sure you choose swim fins that are comfortable to wear, will allow you to kick/swim for long periods of time without cramping your legs and which don't pinch your toes or heels.

Not all fins are made of the same material, but they all must withstand the effects of sun, salt and sand. To ensure your swim fins last for many years you will want to purchase a high quality pair of swim fins.

Adjustable fins are worn over neoprene boots. The boots offer durable, pliable padding and protection so that you can strap the fins securely and comfortably to your feet. Swim fins have an open back and a thick strap which buckles behind the heel.

When shopping for fins the most difficult decision you will need to make is between a split fin or a non-split fin. A traditional fin is a simple, elongated flat foot extension (like duck feet). Split fins are a newer design where the fin is split in two parts by a lengthwise slit. Split fins are more expensive and offer slightly better propulsion. It is up to the scuba diver whether the higher price justifies minimally improved performance. Suffice to say that while split fins are a nice luxury a properly fit non-split fin is perfectly effective.

Buy your fins and boots at the same time. You will want to try both on at once and be absolutely certain they are comfortable together. Once you have both fins on sit in a chair and flap them around vigorously. A well-fitting swim fin and a scuba booty will not rub or chafe, it will be snug and secure, but not tight.

The other feature to insist upon is a good strap. Fin straps should be attached on both sides with quick-release buckles which allow you to loosen the strap without detaching it. When loosened, your foot should slip out easily and when tight should be snug and secure. The straps should be thick and durable and the buckles should be equally durable and release with just a little push - easily, but not too easily.