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How to choose the perfect fins
We all know that fins that are perfectly adapted to our physiognomy will help us to improve our finning performance significantly. But sometimes it is not so easy to choose the right fins.
The market offers us a wide variety of models, made of different materials and with a multitude of shapes; which one is the best for each one of us? It is not an easy question to answer, in this article we give you a series of keys that will be of great help when making the decision.
MANUFACTURING MATERIALS
In the early days of diving, the first fins were made of rubber, a material that would soon be discarded because it had enormous limitations.
Manufacturers were thus forced to investigate in the search for alternative materials that offered greater performance for the diver.
All this technological development gave rise to the fins we know today, made with materials called technopolymers, specially designed to resist marine corrosion, which greatly increases their durability.
This material has also allowed the realization of fins of many different shapes, as we can see by taking a look at the market. The most suitable one in each case depends on multiple factors that are described below.
FINGER FINS VERSUS ADJUSTABLE FINGERS
- SHIMMING FINS: Shimming fins eliminate the need to use booties, so they are usually used in high temperature waters. There are two types
- Short-bladed foot pocket fin: suitable for beginners or shallow divers
- Long blade foot pocket fin: these are usually made of fiberglass and carbon fiber and the foot pocket is usually made of rubber. This is the type of fin used by the experienced freediver who descends to great depths.
These fins are larger and heavier, requiring greater technical mastery and physical strength (the volume of water displaced is greater than with the other fins).
They are usually used for fast ascents in competitive freediving
- ADJUSTABLE FINS: these are fins with an open rear end, to allow the entry of a foot with booties; the fin is adjusted to the foot by means of an elastic strap made of technopolymer.
If we choose this modality, it is advisable to try them on with the booties on. We should not feel any discomfort or any kind of pressure. The foot should be supported along its entire length and this support should be maintained at all times, but without pressing at any time.
The adjustable short blade fin: the standard width fins are the most used by those who start diving, in fact they are known as traditional; they are light and easy to put on, with the disadvantage of the little displacement they provide.
If this type of blade has an extra width, it will provide an extra thrust, much appreciated by somewhat experienced divers - - HYBRID FINS: We call hybrid fins those fins that have the characteristics of adjustable fins and footpockets, with a long and rigid blade.
They require an extra effort in each stroke, so they are only valid for very experienced divers with good leg musculature
- BEGINNERS: If you are just starting out in the world of diving, our recommendation is that you opt for short blade fins with extra width. This type of fins usually have channels, which gives them an additional 25% performance compared to traditional fins. They also eliminate the twisting effect on the ankle, thus improving the elasticity of movement and obtaining greater propulsion in the displacement.
The extra width also improves underwater stability as it presents greater balance - SALVAMENTO: we will opt for fins with a wide and long blade, but with many channels, which will allow us a greater displacement with less effort. This type of fins are also used in diving against currents.
It must be taken into account that these fins require a greater physical effort due to the volume of water that is displaced with each stroke - SNORKEL: Short, soft, channelless footpocket fins are recommended
- APNEA: the choice between footpockets or adjustable fins is a personal one, depending on the characteristics of the diver and the place where the activity takes place. It is advisable to use rigid and long fins
Fins are undoubtedly the most versatile part of the diving equipment. They have a clear purpose: to make the most of the diver's leg impulse, reducing the effort needed to move forward, while greatly increasing speed.
In general, we can say that the basic characteristics that good fins should have are as follows
- Oblique layout: which will allow us to take advantage of the effort of the clap to the maximum, at the same time that it avoids us to adopt complex positions that can produce cramps (thanks to its layout the foot remains in a position very similar to the normal one)
- The blade of the fin must be sufficiently rigid to counteract the resistance of the water
- It should not have any hardness and should be perfectly adapted to the foot: we advise you to use a larger size than normal shoes in order to avoid uncomfortable pressure
One last tip: if you are considering buying your first fins, let your diving instructor advise you, he is the one who knows best your physical characteristics and way of finning, besides being up to date with what is happening in the market, so he will know how to advise you properly.
How to know my fin size
FIN SIZE CHART
Care of the fins
Undoubtedly, the most versatile part of the diving equipment. Its purpose is to make the most of the diver's leg drive, reducing the effort needed to move forward, while greatly increasing speed.
If we want them to fulfill all these functions, their condition must be optimal. Follow the tips below to make this happen
- Rinse them with plenty of fresh water after use
- Do not leave them exposed to the sun for long periods
- Try to remove any saltpetre or chlorine residue from the pool, which will eventually damage them
- If you are not going to use them for a long period of time, it is advisable to keep them with a few talcum powder
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