How to Fit Swim Fins Properly

Scuba divers, snorkelers, free divers and open-water swimmers all use swim fins. Each water activity uses a different kind of fin, from the super-long free-dive fins to split fins, which are used in snorkeling and scuba diving. Fins are sized similarly to shoes, and they should fit like shoes -- comfortably yet snugly and without crunching your toes or squeezing your heels too tightly. Regardless of the activity in which you're engaging and the style of fin you wear, make sure that your pair fits properly.

Instructions

  1. Open-Heel Fins

    • 1

      Have your foot measured with a Brannock Device, the common foot measuring tool found in most shoe and sporting goods stores. Use your regular foot size and width to select a pair of open-heel fins.

    • 2

      Remove your socks. If you plan on wearing neoprene booties with your fins, wear them while you try on the fins.

    • 3

      Insert your feet into the fins. Push your toes all the way in so that they're visible at the front of the fins. Connect the heel straps and tighten them until the fins fit snugly, but not so tight that your circulation is cut off.

    • 4

      Slide your index finger into each fin, at the top of each foot. When this type of fin fits properly, it should be difficult for you to insert your finger, but not impossible.

    Full-Foot Fins

    • 5

      Have your foot measured with a Brannock Device, the common foot measuring tool found in most shoe and sporting goods stores. Use your regular foot size and width to select a pair of full-foot fins.

    • 6

      Remove your socks. If you plan on wearing neoprene booties with your fins, wear them while you try on the fins.

    • 7

      Insert your feet into the fins. Push your toes all the way in until your heels rest against the backs. Check all sides of each fin for any gaps. Slide your index finger into each side to make sure that there's adequate space between the fins and your feet.

    • 8

      Feel your heel and where the fins make contact with your Achilles' tendons, at the backs of your feet above your heels. Ensure that the fins fit snugly but are not cutting into the tendons.

    • 9

      Walk around and make sure that the fins are not too loose. You don't want your fins to slip off in the water. If you find that you're in between sizes, select a pair that's slightly too small. When you wear your fins in the water, they will loosen up a bit, so choosing a smaller size rather than a bigger one is a better option.