Diving is a fun-filled water activity that took the interests of a lot of people these days. Unlike before, people are more interested in recreational water activities, and most likely, they would all agree that freediving is a challenging one. Thrilling as it may sound, freediving is way different from any other water sports. Meaning, you have to be well-prepared and learn the tricks and techniques, and be geared up with the best freediving fins that would fit your needs to make sure great diving experiences, without spending much.
If you are new to freediving sport, read on as this article will guide you on how to pick the right freediving fins from various materials and how it would benefit you; before and after use care; as well as pricing so you will know which one would best suit your budget.
Note: Besides of freediving mask, you can also need 1 freediving watch, 1 freediving mask that I mentioned in the previous article.
What Are Freediving Fins?
A diver’s getup will never be complete without this kind of diving footwear. These are fish fin-like accessories that will help divers to move through the water. The freediving fins come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. They also vary in skill types, from beginners to experts.
Swim fins, also known as flippers, may be worn on both feet. Since the human feet are too small, they cannot produce the amount of force or thrust needed to swim through the water. These diving accessories can also help divers avoid stiffness, cramps, and other muscle-related injuries.
Do You Need Freediving Fins ?
Freediving fins are essential for divers as these can help them to move underwater with less effort. But before you jump into shopping for diving outfits and accessories, we have to make sure that your diving fin fits your skills, preferred materials, and of course, your budget. Preparation is essential to make sure a safe yet fun diving experience, including testing of the equipment and checking if all the accessories are a perfect fit. To check if your fins fit perfectly: Put on your fins and gently move or shake your feet. Next, hold the tip and see if they are loose or not. Be sure that the diving fins will not slip off your feet. Your heel should not pop out from foot pockets too.
Properly fitted fins will help avoid unwanted cuts, muscle cramps, and usage of too much energy. Always check for options, especially when it comes to sizing. Being comfortable with the equipment you are going to use underwater is necessary.
Every dive action is a moment to cherish and is something we would like to enjoy the fullest. As much as possible, we want to avoid gear malfunction, which is why we need to invest in our diving materials.
To know more about freediving fins feature and how to get the best one, we have some lists of swim fins listed on the latter part of this article that could help you be more familiar.
Best Freediving Reviews 2020
1. Rob Allen Scorpia Freediving Fins Plastic Long Blade Spearfishing Fins
The Rob Allen Scorpia Freediving Fins are one of the most used freediving fins available on the market today. It can be both used for freediving and spearfishing. These fins are available in 7 different sizes, extra small to 2X large. The foot pockets are molded rubber. These outlined foot pockets help avoid flexing too much leg muscle.
What I like about this product is it has a high-ranking conveyance of leg power going to the blades. On the other hand, some divers find these freediving fins to have a softened blade character. These divers preferred stiffer blades depending on the depth of their dive plan.
Since they are economical, yet sturdy, these fins are perfect for beginners for their freediving practices.
2. Cressi Gara 2000HF Long Fin
These freediving fins guarantee high performance on every use. It is made by Cressi, which is also known as the creator of watersports tools since 2003, I bet that it is true, mainly because it is finely made in Italy and crafted only with the premium quality materials.
Something to love about this equipment is their superfine long blade fins. It helps divers move underwater in lesser time and effort. The weight of the fins is 4.52lbs and a dimension of 41x9x9 inches. Sizes are not indicated and may need to contact the merchant first for recommendation and availability.
3. Beuchat Mundial One Fins
Another dual-purpose freediving fins, the Beuchat Mundial One Fins, works for freediving and spearfishing. It has a thermoplastic elastomer foot pockets and technopolymer blades. Each blade is 61cm long and weighs 1100g.
I noticed the color is not available from the options. So, those who want to dive in fashion will only settle for black. In terms of sizing, they range from 39 to 48. Price may vary based on the size. Price is a whole lot cheaper than most freediving fins.
I believe, Beuchat Mundial One Fins are best for beginners who want to test the water first, since they don’t have to invest in expensive ones right away. No need to worry about quality! I’ve seen videos uploaded by some divers using the exact products, and yes, these products would work just fine.
4. Mares Pure Instinct Razor Pro Freedive Fin Size 5.5/6.5 for Diving or Snorkeling
If you are size 5.5/6.5 and you are looking for lightweight freediving fins available in the market today, look no further, because the Mares Pure Instinct Razor Pro Freedive Fin is definitely on the list. With a dimension of 10x12x32 inches and weighing only about 2.2 pounds, it sure is a lightweight fin!
The foot pocket looks very promising with a guarantee of comfort, aside from effective finning techniques. It’s not all the time that we get both: efficiency and comfort. Thus, this specific freediving equipment could have an edge as compared to other fins out in the market. The side ribs are perfectly designed for optimal support to its blades so they can easily direct the water flow.
Another outstanding feature is its anti-slip rubber sole. The only downside of the Mares Pure Instinct Razor Pro Freediving Fin is the sizing since it is only available for a single size.
5. Mares Pure Instinct Razor Spearfishing Fins
The Mares Pure Instinct Razor Spearfishing Fins are one of the most talked-about freediving fins on the market. It has a modular, specially designed foot pocket with the arched instep for maximum comfort. The blades are extra flexible, and they go along well with every bend and phase of the finning movement.
Sizing won’t be a problem since they have available sizes from 5.5 to 12/13. Other than black, I love the way they combined the colors gray and black, which is an option. Price may be a little higher, but from the materials used, up to the specially designed foot pockets and blades, I agree that this one is among the best fins on the market.
The only thing that bothers me is the screws that hold the blades. A diver once mentioned that a screw fell off after a few hours of use. I know that it is easy to find a replacement if the manufacturer cannot include some, but it would be best if they would check on this minor issue and maintain their quality level to high.
6. Gara Professional LD
The Cressi Gara Professional LD is an excellent choice for deep freediving, spearfishing, as well as long-distance swimming. It is also another good option for first-time freedivers because the blade fins are not too long. This kind of fins helps neophytes to feel more comfortable in maneuvering underwater.
The blade, on the other hand, is from a special elastomer polypropylene that provides a more fluid movement underwater and demands fewer kicks. In terms of pricing, these Soft Full Pocket Long Blade Fins are reasonably priced based on size.
Bad news for our lady freedivers with smaller feet size, these fins are only available in men’s size from 7/8 to 12/13. With or without neoprene socks, the fins can promise of comfort and perfect fit.
7. Cressi Men’s Gara 3000 LD Long Distance Long Blade Diving Fins (with Bag)
The Cressi Men’s Gara 3000 LD is also one of the most loved freediving fins. It is a multi-purpose swim fin for freediving, scuba diving, spearfishing, and long-distance swimming. The fins have softer, flexible materials and work best for cold water.
While the long blades are from durable plastic materials, the foot pockets are personalized soft elastomer that would wrap around the diver’s feet. Another best thing about this specific brand is the free traveling bag that comes with the fins. It will surely help divers to carry and transport their equipment easily.
On the other note, there is possible confusion with the sizes. American size is a little different from European size and may give a snug feeling to the diver’s feet, so make sure you have the right measurement. If you have already ordered the wrong size and you don’t have time to return them, use thick diving socks to make a good fit.
I think this is a stellar choice for both entry-level divers and the experienced ones.
8. MAKO Spearguns Freedive Hunter Freediving Fins
The MAKO Spearguns Freedive Hunter Freediving Fins have polypropylene composite blades. It uses soft, thermoplastic rubber foot pockets for comfort and Polypropylene made blades. Both are permanently attached, professionally engineered to maximize thrust and stability while underwater.
The foot pockets may be soft, but it could also provide needed stiffness to convey the body’s energy. Some freedivers viewed this swim fin best for entry-level freedivers, but I think it is for more experienced ones since they are a little stiffer, and it may require advanced finning skills.
Although size preference is available online, the product description does not include the dimension of the fins.
9. SEAC Shout Camo S700 Long Fins for Scuba Diving, Spearfishing, and Freediving
Crafted in Italy by Seacsub spa, the SEAC Shout Camo S2700 Long Fins for Scuba Diving is best for prolonged diving. With soft blades, angled at 22 degrees, it could provide more powerful strokes.
The 2.5mm foot pockets, on the other hand, are from neoprene materials. It may be perfect for some divers, but you may still opt to wear socks if you are not comfortable diving barefooted.
The smallest fin is 1cm long and weighs 1kg. Preferred by most divers, the largest one is 1 meter long with a weight of 1.24kg. If you wish to add color for more fun freediving, the SEAC Shout Camo is a better choice since it is available in 3 different colors; Green, Grey, Brown.
The size option is in UK Sizing, so if you are not familiar with their sizing guide, you have to do your research first. And since sizing varies, the price also depends on the preferred size.
One thing I don’t like about this freediving fin is its weight. I think heavy equipment can have effects on the performance of the divers, but surely, they can get used to it over time.
10. DiveCatalog Gara 2000 HF w/Lanyard Coil
Another Cressi Freediving Fin, the DiveCatalog Gara 2000 HF w/Lanyard Coil, is the first-ever freediving fin that combined 3 different substances; Polypropylene, Copolymer, and Elastomer. Polypropylene is a light-weight material used for blades. For more efficiency in hardening some footprints, they added solid copolymer. The soft elastomer comfortably wraps the foot pockets to the feet.
This Cressi fin has stringers on the blade that is attached to its bottom. They help to regulate the flexibility of the blade fins. It works like a spring that absorbs shocks.
Good thing that the size options are available in the EU and US to avoid confusion. Wearing socks is optional. One best thing about purchasing the DiveCatalog Gara 2000 is that it comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
How To Choose Freediving Fins – Buying Guide
A good pair of freediving fins helps divers to go into the deep water, but divers who geared up with a perfect set of fins can swim through the deeper parts of the ocean for less effort. I know you feel excited about getting yourself a pair of your freediving fins, but let us remind ourselves to avoid impulsive buying so we could get only the best deals.
Just a heads up, there is a wide range of diving fins available today, and yes, choosing can be tough. Remember, our goal is to have the fins that are tailor-fitted to our diving needs. There are ways for you to know whether a freediving fin is for you. Below are the few things to consider before buying:
- Skill level assessment. First, divers will get the details of their dive, including the depths, time, and decompression status. They also test the accessories and equipment like freediving fins, masks, and suits to avoid muscle cramps, cuts, and general discomfort.
- If you are new to diving, you must have a dive buddy or best, a trainer who knows how your equipment operates since we do not know what could happen underwater. Certified divers know what suit to wear and freediving fins to choose. It does not mean that the entry-level cannot do the same. All they need is a little research and continuous checking of options available to make sure that they get the correct equipment and accessories.
- The next thing to consider is the materials of the freediving fins. Each of them has a character that could either work for you or not. The materials used are polymer plastic, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. To give you a brief description of these materials:
- Polymer plastics are either synthetic or organic biodegradable plastics. Although they are the cheapest, they are not as effective as the fins made from the other two elements.
- The fiberglass is a specially formulated glass compound of low defects with plastic coating.
- The carbon fiber, which is also known as graphite fiber, is a strong, yet lightweight element.
- Another significant factor to consider when buying freediving fins is the budget. You do not need to spend too much. The quality, the material, and the reasonable price are the most important things to consider instead of the designs, the costs, and brand names.
Foot Pockets and Blades
Foot pockets are part of the freediving fins. Perfectly fitted freediving fins with an enclosed heel could effectively transfer the leg power and could produce greater finning force.
You may also check on what most divers call the Quality Foot Pockets. They have a thermo-rubber mix for softer texture around the ankles and the diver’s toes. It comes with different designs, too. You will see a kind with an open toe or a closed one.
As much as possible, we want to go diving well-prepared to limit the possibility of arising issues when we are underwater. A little bit of research before buying can serve as a big help for the diver. Once they know better, they will be more knowledgeable and conscious of what to buy. They can ensure compatibility of the feet to the foot pockets too.
Aside from the length, a diver may either have wide or narrow feet. It is another factor to consider when buying swim fins. There is a chance of needing 2-3mm thick socks if you land on bigger sized foot pockets. That is the best remedy, and it is good to know that they are conveniently available online, or you may ask your retail stores. However, if your swim fins are too tight for your feet, then I believe your only option is to get a new one.
Usually, manufacturers have the best way to help you figure out your size by using a chart or sizing guide on their packaging. Some divers are using their actual shoe size, yet this is not advisable and could not give a guarantee of effectiveness and perfect fit since materials used may differ.
Blades are also a crucial factor in deciding which freediving fins to purchase. They are created in various ways to make the diving experience way better. With innovative ways of designing, they can use combined materials that help in improving the function when underwater. The risk of muscle cramps can be lesser, as well as tiredness since divers will be using less kicking effort.
A good set of blades can also make diving more attainable for kids. At their young age, it will be more effortless for them to learn diving and could encourage them to do it again. With the right set of diving suits and accessories, as well as the right freediving knowledge, the experience in total will be less tiring and more fun.
Stiffness
Stiffness has three classifications: soft, medium, and hard. It should depend on your body type and the type of diving you are going to do. May it be scuba diving, freediving, or snorkeling. Nowadays, most diving fins manufacturers are trying to offer a combination of stiffness on their products.
The use of soft to medium stiffness is best for neophytes. They need a whole lot of practice because they may have a risk of leg muscle pains and cramps and a tendency to burn too much oxygen when diving. It is needed for the beginner diver to ensure that their legs are strong enough before they decide to use a hard level of stiffness of their blades.
For divers with a bigger built, getting a stiffer blade is advisable as it will assist them underwater. There is a risk of inefficient finning if they use a soft blade. Best to ask the experts or see product labels and instructions.
Moreover, some divers believe that the stiffness of the blade depends on the depth of their dive. They thought that they would need a stiffer blade if they wish to go deeper. This diving myth it is known to be the common mistake of a diver.
The deeper dive they will be into has found nothing to do with the stiffness of the blades. For fewer vibrations underwater, the stiffness should be soft. This way, it will not affect the communication of the sea creatures.
Fin Rails or No Rails
Aside from blades, pockets, and stiffness, we also need to determine whether you will need or would want to have fin rails or not. We have two kinds of fin rails; the water channeling and the tendon rails.
When we say water channeling, this is usually helpful to divers when they do downstrokes. They help to eliminate the water to slip off the fin. There is a chance of unpredictable movement of the fins if the blades will not get a matching rail. The absence of water channeling rails will possibly cause difficulty to take movement control once underwater.
Tendon rails, on the other hand, look like a capital T and is made from a stronger amount of rubber. They are using the best glue for rubber to put the blade surface together. It makes a quick bond that is long-lasting.
As you go along with freediving activity, you and your trainer will decide whether fin rails will be beneficial or not. You have the option not to include it, but I highly suggest having them on your fins for more effective strokes. Some online shops offer fin rails kits, which include foot pockets and water rails, so you won’t have to buy them per piece.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How Do I Use Freediving Fins?
A: Just like other swim fins like scuba diving fins, freediving fins are used by divers to swim deeper down the ocean. It is easy to use as if you’re wearing your shoes. The blades connected to the foot pockets can be permanent or detachable. It provides maximum efficiency when fitted perfectly. There’s a lot of online video tutorials for finning styles and strokes that could help you get started.
Q: Why Are Freediving Fins So Long?
A: Typically designed longer because it helps the diver to travel further underwater without using too much energy which means, more distance covered in lesser time. Essentially, this helps the diver to have a lower chance of leg cramps and muscle pain. The long freediving fin blades will help you efficiently propel through the water as quickly as possible. It allows divers to reach further distance without consuming too much oxygen, human power, and time.
Q: How Long Are Freediving Fins?
A: Freediving fins almost have the same look as the snorkeling fins. They are longer and are about 25 to 30 inches. They are longer than other swim fins because they aim to move faster, deeper underwater with lesser effort and consumed time.
Q: How Hard Is It To Use Freediving Fins?
A: As far as safety is concerns, divers must know the correct way of using freediving fins, especially when they are underwater. If the diver improperly fins, a lot of finning efforts will be wasted, as well as time and consumed oxygen. You can learn efficient freediving, as well as how to properly gear up, based on your skills and body requirements. As soon as you have the right knowledge and proper training, for sure, you will agree that it is not as hard to use freediving fins as what others think.
Q: How to travel with long freediving fins?
A: Traveling with diving fins requires separate luggage. Some fins come with a free bag to avoid scratches or any other damages. If you don’t have a carrier, browse the web or check out with your local sports stores. Remember to get the size of your fins or brand name and model to make sure the right fit.
Q: How to Care For Your Freediving Fins?
A: Some freediving fins come with proper care instructions and storage. After use, remember to wash it with water and soap. Use a soft bristle brush to remove remaining sand, dust, and dirt, then towel it dry before storing them completely.
Conclusion
Most freedivers’ goal is to have a memorable underwater experience. It also means, no to minimal concerns during the big day of your planned dive. We all wish to have uninterrupted time off from our day-to-day lives, and a minor issue with diving fins can ruin a day.
Swim fins play a significant role in freediving. If you want to go that extra mile, or in this case, go deeper down the ocean and explore further and beyond, choose only the best fishdiving fins. With that in mind, it is only rational to learn all the tips and tricks available for you off and online.