Flexible Fins versus Stiff Fins

Fins, or flippers, are manufactured from either rubber or plastic Fins provide a larger surface area, assisting in efficient movement through the water and are therefore used in many water sports, including swimming, underwater diving and bodyboarding.

Most fins nowadays are composite, that is, the foot part is made of neoprene rubber and the blade is made of a plastic. Some fins however, are made only out of rubber. Composite fins tend to be lighter than those made purely of rubber, and the full rubber fins are most commonly used in bodyboarding.

The basic paddle fins are simple and traditional in design. They are suitable for casual diving due to the fact that the water will move up and down the fins, allowing more power with each kick. These fins are generally made from either stiff plastic or rubber, and are well suited to men. Woman, however, tend to find a flexible fin more agreeable, due to the fact that less leg power is required with a flexible fin. Split fins reduce the resistance of the water allowing most of the water to go straight backwards, ensuring a more energy efficient dive; these fins are not as efficient when diving near to the ocean floor or when cave diving.

Vented fins allow water through the vented blades. They are designed with the purpose of reducing water resistance. You will find that the vents which let the water run through the fin during the rest stroke, are definitely more effective on stiffer fins. They allow energy saving while lifting the fin on the upstroke. However, in contrast, fins with vents that let water through on the power stroke are more popular, primarily due to the fact that energy is saved during the power kick downwards.

Freediving fins are similar to paddle fins but longer. They generally have a very rigid footpocket which maximizes the power transfer from the leg to the fin. They are usually made from plastic but sometimes fiberglass or carbon fibre is also used.

Monofins consist of one surface and are also made from glass fibre or carbon fibre. The required stiffness of the fins will vary and will be determined by the type of water sport the fin is used for.

Stiff diving fins are most suited for shallow waters where strong currents may prevail. Under these circumstances, a stronger thrust is needed, which the stiff fins will adequately provide. If there is an absence of currents, the more flexible fins will be a better choice.

When selecting your fins, remember that it is important to consider what the fins will be used for. Some fins are flexible while others are very stiff. Stiff fins are popular when used for frog kicking and other propulsion techniques. Although longer, stiffer fins propel the diver further than flexible fins, if you're not very fit or find that your legs are weak, flutter kicking with stiff fins for a lengthy period of time can prove to be quite an exhausting exercise.

Whether you opt for the longer stiffer blades, or the shorter, more flexible fins. it is imperative to choose the correct size diving fins. The open diving fins are available in sizes such as small, medium and large, whereas full foot fins have to fit 100% correctly on your foot.

Always take the time to rinse your fins with fresh water after use. This also applies to swimming pool water, as the chlorine can damage the fins. Keep out of direct sunlight and ensure that they are stored in a dry place.