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Scuba Fins

Scuba fins are used by divers and swimmers to increase the amount of power each leg kick can provide. The reason a fin works is because it has a large surface area which allows lots of water to be pushed around. Without fins most divers would be struggling to get anywhere underwater. They are used for steering and other maneuvers as well.

Scuba fins come in two basic styles and many different lengths. They are either full foot flippers that encase the entire foot in rubber, common among divers because of the increased amount of comfort and warmth, or they are behind the foot fins that merely enclose the front of the foot and secure with a strap around the back of the foot.

The rubber material used on many scuba fins flexes the fin when kicked and then the fin responds by springing back giving the diver increased propulsion. For deep dives larger fins are used to combat the extra weight of the equipment. The larger the fin the slower it will be, but the more powerful each stroke will be. Small fins are good for coastal waters and pools where quick maneuverability is important.

 

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