Buying fins
Without fins, movement through water, especially when wearing scuba, becomes slow and awkward and very tiring. While most fins perform adequately most of the time, those who need to rely on performance to remain safe, need to make careful choices.
The basics
A good quality fin will improve power on the thrust and reduce resistance of the return stroke. The downward 'thrust' kick produces forward momentum from the quadriceps or thigh muscles. The upward 'return' kick requires minimal effort as it uses the weaker calf muscles and is carried out simply to prepare for the next thrust. Therefore, a good quality fin will improve power on the thrust and reduce resistance of the return stroke.
Surface action
For once-a-year snorkellers, who prefer to spend time on the surface in calm waters, low-cost full-foot or 'slipper' fins are a good choice. Those intending to 'duck dive' down and swim along underwater might consider a higher-quality slipper fin similar to that designed for scuba. Strong plastics and often softer foot pockets add to enjoyment for the keen snorkeller.
Diving choices
When diving, it is essential to remember that your additional weight, your larger surface area, and your greater resistance when moving through water, require a fin capable of creating more power with each stroke. Open-heel style fins are used with a wetsuit boot and are adjustable to suit varying foot sizes. These are the best choice for scuba divers as they have larger blades, which create more power with each kick. Warm-water divers who prefer to use full-foot designs should take care to choose a high quality fin capable of providing enough forward thrust for swimming into currents. Cheaper full-foot fins are not suitable for scuba diving.
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