Fins or flippers are not an essential part of a scuba diver’s or snorkeller’s equipment. That is, it is possible to scuba dive or go snorkelling without fins or flippers. However they provide such a benefit when in the water that they are almost mandatory.
The main benefit of fins or flippers when snorkelling or scuba diving is the assistance the fins provide for moving through the water. Speed through the water is another function that fins provide.
Types of Scuba or Snorkelling Fins or Flippers
There are two main types of scuba or snorkelling fins or flippers.
- Closed heel. On this type of fin the foot slips into the fin like putting on a shoe. These are usually made of rubber that moulds around the foot. These types of fins are usually the cheaper option, and are generally a small fin. They are common with body-surfers.
- Open heel. These are the most common type of fin or flipper used in scuba diving. The foot slips into a pocket at the back of the fin with a strap holding the foot in place. Most scuba divers use a neoprene boot, with the fin pocket large enough to accommodate the boot. In this way the scuba diver (or snorkeller) can comfortably walk across rough ground, such as a coral reef, to the water’s edge before putting on their fins.
There are a few things to consider when purchasing or selecting a pair of fins:
- Comfort is the most important consideration. This should come before looks, colour, design or the latest "fad" in fins.
- The fins must suit the person using them. Some designs need large leg muscles to drive them through the water. If an unskilled scuba diver or snorkeller uses these it could lead to leg cramps or fatigue.
- The fins should be suited for the service they are to provide. If only snorkelling once a year in an easy location, then a cheap pair may suffice. However, if a snorkeller wants to graduate to open water scuba diving, then a better quality pair may be the best choice.
Using Fins When Snorkelling or Scuba Diving
One thing about fins is that for most competent swimmers, the kick with a fin will automatically adjust to the design of the fin.
A long, slow waving motion of the entire leg is the optimum way to fin when underwater.
When using fins on the surface, the fins should be kept just below the surface of the water. Too much splashing of the surface wastes energy and only creates white water and a lot of noise.
The use of fins when underwater on scuba assist in a scuba diver’s buoyancy control.
Caring for Snorkelling or Scuba Diving Fins
Fins don’t need much looking after. They can be simply rinsed off after a scuba dive or snorkel and dried off out of the sun.
Fins should be stored flat, or hanging up, in such a way that they don’t lose their shape. A pair of fins stuffed in the bottom of a gear bag for a few months between dives is not a good place.
The fin straps should be regularly checked for damage, as the strap is the only real place that a fin can be damaged enough to make it unusable.
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