How Much Are Swim Fins?

Swim fins help swimmers travel through the water. They vary according to function and sport. Swim fins can be used in the pool or or other water for exercise and speed, such as pool training and snorkeling. Swim fins allow divers to propel through mid and deep water efficiently, conserving air. All swim fins are durable, making the cost for a pair an investment and an incentive for continued use.

  1. Types

    • There are four basic types of swim fins: Flipper or board fins; split fins; vented fins and monofins. The board fins are the basic fins, with a rigid body. Split fins are separated in the middle, or have a central vent, which relieves water resistance and reduces leg muscle cramps. Vented fins are similar to board fins, but are wider and have vents for water passage through the width of the fin to alleviate some water resistance. Monofins contain two foot pockets connected to a single unit, allowing the swimmer to practice dolphin kicks or butterfly kicks (with both legs together). Swim fins can contain adjustable straps or closed heels for the foot pockets. All fins come in different sizes (for example, XS, S, M, L, XL).

    Function

    • Swim fins can be used as an exercise accessory in the pool, or in the ocean to move around, such as for snorkeling, SCUBA diving, free diving or body surfing. Because the fins become an extension of the swimmer's body, the size and length of the fin are determined by function. Free divers typically have longer fins to allow them to quickly swim to depth. SCUBA divers sometimes utilize wide and long fins to navigate through ocean currents. Snorkelers and body surfers don't need such durable fins because they swim on the surface of the water and use the fins to propel themselves. Pool fins are generally shorter, and can be vented or split, depending on the exercise goals.

    Cost

    • Swim fins vary in cost based on function, type and model. Pool flippers can range from $15 to $60, depending on the brand. Snorkeling fins are more durable, and can range from $25 to over $80. SCUBA fins are more rugged and can start at $50 to over $200. Free diving fins can range from $90 to over $500. Swim fins can last for a long time --- size and comfort are important factors, in addition to use and cost. Each manufacturer has corresponding shoe sizes for each fin size; wearing protective booties or socks to prevent chafing can add to the cost of a pair of fins.

    Tips

    • Take your time to try on and select your swim fins. Ask about the store's return policy and whether you can try out the fins in a pool (many stores don't accept returns or exchanges if the fins were worn in the ocean). Look into any packages that include masks, goggles or snorkels. Bring your booties or swim socks to ensure a good fit and proper sizing. Closed-heel fins are useful for vacation trips, but can be tricky to put on while in the water. Check out the fins with adjustable straps and check out accessories such as spring straps, which allow you to quickly put them on and take them off. Accessories not only add to the cost but enhance the swimmer's comfort to ensure continued use.