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Scuba Fins

Scuba fins are long flat rubber or plastic extensions of your feet that allow you to swim with much greater ease and speed. The two primary varieties of fins are full-foot and open-heeled. Full-foot fins completely cover the foot like a shoe and are most commonly used in warm tropical water. Open-heeled fins have a strap across the back and are worn with booties to allow the feet more warmth and comfort.

In colder water it is normal to wear neoprene boots with open heeled scuba fins to keep the feet warm. These boots are normally called booties. They are also used to protect the feet, particularly when shore diving. Some divers find them more comfortable than full foot fins.

Scuba fins work by forcing water in different directions which in turn propel the diver or swimmer in the direction intended. Different sizes and flexibilities affect how each fin operates - a smaller and stiffer fin will be more maneuverable but will make the diver tire quicker. A large fin pushes more water, so it is a better choice for long distances and will be easier to maintain momentum.

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