Fins & Flippers
Scuba diving and free diving would be virtually impossible without placing fins on your feet. The length and shape of fins increases the surface area pushing against the water, allowing you to propel yourself more quickly and efficiently in this type of environment. There are a variety of fins available in today's market, each lending themselves to different facets of diving and/or snorkeling. The main categories of fins are as follows:
Open Heel Fins with Adjustable straps:
The open heel fins with adjustable straps allow for a variety of foot sizes and footwear to be used with the fin. Divers may need to adjust their footwear due to water temperatures, or varied terrain when performing shore entries. The adjustable strap makes it easy to change footwear or accommodate different sized feet without requiring a new pair of fins. The design in this case is generally larger than other types of fins. This allows the diver to produce more power, and more easily slice through the water even when thicker, heavier exposure suits are utilized. Also, the straps themselves can be easily replaced in case of breakage.
Full Foot Fins:
Full foot fins are best suited for tropical diving destinations where the water is warm. They can be used by both divers and snorkelers. No wetsuit type boot is required to warm or protect the foot. This permits easy donning and doffing. As an added bonus, the lack of under boot, and the fact these fins are generally smaller and lighter, allow one to pack lighter for one's favorite vacation destinations.
Free Diving Fins:
These fins possess a significantly longer blade than the others mentioned above. The goal is to accommodate the free diver who needs a very powerful kick, while expending as little energy as possible.
Force Fins:
The Force Fins can be very easily recognized as they have a very unique design. They are incredibly efficient, easy to walk in, and tend to be a bit smaller which allows for easy packing. Offering a wide array of styles, everyone from recreational to commercial divers can benefit from using this type of fin.
