A popular recreational activity, snorkeling involves swimming just below the surface of water to view underwater wildlife and environments. The right equipment for snorkeling includes a diving mask or goggles, a breathing tube -- the snorkel -- and snorkeling fins.
Benefits
While you can snorkel without wearing snorkeling fins, the benefits they provide are important to note. Snorkeling fins provide better propulsion in the water. Your fins depend on the power from your legs, so you don't need to work your arms and hands as much. Snorkeling fins can also increase your speed by 50 percent, according to Snorkeling.info.
Open Heel Fins
Open heel fins slip on your feet while leaving the heel uncovered. Other features of open heel fins include an adjustable strap for a secure fit, channels for improved speed and water flow, and stability. To protect your feet from scraping against anything underwater, purchase a pair of neoprene booties to wear under your fins. Open heel fins come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are made out of either rubber or a combination of composite materials, which make the fins lighter than other kinds.
Full Foot Fins
Full foot snorkeling fins cover your entire foot. Because they lack an adjustable strap like open heel fins have, finding a secure pair of fins can be difficult. Full foot snorkeling fins are made out of rubber or composite materials as well. They come in different sizes and styles to provide better speed, stability and control of your kicks.
Tips
Whatever set of snorkeling fins you choose, make sure the fins feel comfortable and secure both in and out of the water. If the fins are too tight, they may cause pain or blisters. If the fins are too loose, they may fall off in the middle of your adventure. Make sure the foot pocket reaches your ankle and that your toes don't aren't touching the end of the foot pocket. There should be enough room for you to wiggle your toes. If you're a beginner, start off with a smaller and flexible fin. Long, rigid snorkeling fins can be difficult to use and are better suited to experienced snorkelers. Swimming with snorkeling fins takes practice. Try them out in shallow waters before you head out to deeper seas.
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