Descending deep below the water’s surface with a single breath can be an incredibly challenging but exhilarating experience. Free divers often seek out ways to propel themselves further and beat their personal records, and fins can make all the difference. Combined with effective breathing and kicking techniques, the right fins can prolong your dive by several minutes.
Freediving fins are typically longer and more flexible than SCUBA fins, designed explicitly for conserving energy and displacing more water. The right fins will assist a diver in moving faster with less effort, helping them to stay underwater for longer.
But with so many materials and styles to choose from, it can take time to know which ones are right for you. This guide is here to help!
Table of Contents
Monofins vs Bi-Fins
When choosing fins for freediving, there are two styles to be aware of: monofins and bi-fins. Monofins are most popular with experienced and competitive free divers as they allow for more generous propulsion and power. Monofins resemble a mermaid’s tail, with both feet secured into a single fin, requiring a specialist diving technique.
More common are bi-fins, two single fins popular with recreational freedivers. Having two feet free is less intimidating and offers the freedom to use different kicking styles. The ease of bi-fins makes them the perfect choice for those just starting out and spearfishers who need to manoeuvre quickly and with ease.
Once you’ve decided between monofins and bi-fins, let’s look at the finer details.
Blade material
Freediving fins are typically made of either plastic, carbon fibre or fibreglass. Plastic blades are more flexible and forgiving, while carbon fibre blades are lightweight, stiffer and more powerful. Fibreglass fins bridge the gap between the two, offering more propulsion than plastic and more affordable than carbon freediving fins, making them a popular choice for recreational divers. Plastic fins are by far the cheapest option and the most durable, but they require more effort.
When shopping for fins, taking into account flexibility and stiffness is crucial. The stiffer the fin, the more mighty the thrust – but these fins are not the best fit for everyone. The flexibility of your fins needs to be matched with your weight, strength, and freediving ability.
Stiffer fins can be tiring, while more flexible fins provide less power. Softer fins are advised for most new freedivers and those weighing under 60kg.
Blade shape
Freediving fins come in two key blade shapes, full (or paddle) and split, offering different levels of power and control. Full blades provide the most power, while split blades are more efficient and require less effort to move through the water.
Split fins resemble a fish’s tail, allowing divers to conserve energy and move efficiently. A potential drawback is that the strokes can feel less powerful; however, it’s an excellent option for newbies wanting to work on their kicking motion or looking to rehabilitate a lower-body injury. Full blades use more energy but displace more water. They’re best suited to harsh currents and spearfishers looking for greater thrust.
Quality & Sustainability
Buying high-quality fins is an investment in comfort and longevity. Not only does it ensure a safer and more enjoyable freediving experience, but sustainable gear from brands like Agulhasocean, also helps protect the beautiful planet we love to explore. As a freediver, the water is your playground.
Eco-friendly practices like choosing sustainable equipment provide a great way to respect the planet and keep it healthy for generations to come. Do your research – does the company care about the planet? Look for brands trying to make a positive difference.
Foot pocket
The majority of freediving fins come with separate foot pockets. The foot pocket of the fin should fit comfortably and securely on your foot. It should also be easy to get in and out of, as you’ll need to take your fins off quickly when diving.
An advantage of foot pockets is that they allow you to change the blade as your skill and technique develop. A detachable blade also makes travel with your kit easier.
While relaxation is one of the most important benefits of freediving, discomfort can cause anxiety and impair your decision-making process. Comfort when diving is also critical to longer breath retention. Take the time to find a foot pocket that fits you well. Socks can be a valuable addition to your foot pockets, preventing rubbing and blisters, protecting your skin from stinging creatures and keeping your feet warm in cold waters.
Final Words & Top Tips
Here are our top tips for shopping for fins:
Beginners benefit most from fins with relatively soft blades
Softer fins help to train leg muscles and perfect your kicking technique gradually. Newbies may run the risk of leg cramps and picking up bad finning habits when starting with more expensive, stiffer carbon fibre fins.
Buying the most expensive fins won’t make you a better diver
But developing a good technique does. Buying foot pockets with detachable blades allows you to change blades as your skills and requirements change.
Consider your budget
Once you’ve decided on the material and blade shape that suits your level and requirements, buy from a sustainable, high-quality brand. This will help ensure the longevity of your fins, plus the comfort and safety of your dive.
A closed pocket/full-foot in fin maximises the kicking power
It’s vital to buy fins specifically for freediving, as the open-heel strap fins used in SCUBA diving can reduce your propulsion and power.
When it comes to breath-controlled diving, efficiency and comfort are everything
Fins that require less energy for more distance are your ticket to a successful dive.
