Swimming With Fins Vs. Without

Whether to use fins while swimming depends on several variables, including how long and how far you will be swimming and the type of activity you plan. Fins are very useful tools, but can be inappropriate and counterproductive when used incorrectly.

  1. Why use fins?

    • Fins are swimming aids which are worn on the feet. In the United States of America, fins correspond with men's shoe sizes, and other countries will measure fin sizes by other standards. Fins are used to give extra thrust to each kick when traveling through the water, adding more power behind the swimmer's actions. Using fins is advantageous when traveling long distance through the water or when moving a large amount of weight through the water, such as when a swimmer uses S.C.U.B.A. gear, or a lifeguard rescues people away from shore.

    Kicking

    • Unlike kicking without fins, using fins uses more upper leg muscles than lower leg muscles; the majority of the power comes from the thighs rather than the calves. Although fins will grant much more power to a swimmer while in the water, if the swimmer kicks with the lower legs instead of the upper legs he will be at risk of becoming exhausted. Proper form in using fins should be maintained at all times for safety.

    When to use fins

    • Swimmers should decide to use fins based on several factors, including location and the planned activity while swimming. Fins are best used where swimmers will either be in the water for a long time or will be traveling a long distance. Although fins can be enjoyed in pools, they are often too shallow or small, or against the pool regulations. Fins tend to be exclusively used in large, natural bodies of water such as oceans and lakes where there is adequate room to use them efficiently. Likewise, fins are always used by those spending a good deal of time in the water, such as during snorkeling or diving underwater. Fins, when used properly, allow the swimmer to say in the water for longer periods of time without becoming exhausted as quickly.

    Tips

    • Fins, like all tools, require practice. Before going out on a trip, practice in a local pool. This will allow you to feel how the fins work before using them in a less supervised location.
      Never jump into the water face first while wearing fins. The fins will pull your feet at strange angles which can cause injury to either you or the fins. Enter the water backwards, leading with your butt, or put the fins on once you are in the water. Many organizations offer classes on how to use fins while swimming. Check with local non-profit agencies, such as the YMCA/YWCA, the American Red Cross, or Boy Scouts of America, for classes.

    Fin care

    • Many fins are made of either rubber or advanced plastics which require care. To protect your investment in fins, wash off your fins every time you leave the water for an extended period of time to remove salt, sediments, or pool chemicals which will eat away at the fins. A simple rinse in the shower will remove any chemical residue from the fins. Protect the fins from direct sunlight when you are not using them, or the natural oils in the plastic and rubber will try out and crack. Often fins will come packaged in a reusable mesh bag which allows water to drain out but limit the amount of light that reaches the fins. Do not store fins in direct sunlight or next to heaters.