Water is about 800 times denser than air, so you need fins to use the strength of your leg muscles effectively underwater. There are many models to choose from, and well-chosen fins will last you for decades.
Kinds of fins
Manufacturers offer many different models:
- Traditional solid blade fins
- Split fins
- Articulated fins
- Vented fins
- Force fins
How well fins work depends on their design, size and materials. Different fins behave differently when you swim in a strong current or use a different kick, for example the frog kick.
- Divers who travel often are offered very light fins, so their baggage stays within the weight limit.
- Technical divers choose heavier, sturdier models.
Some fins have stayed popular despite their age. A well-known example is the Scubapro Jet Fin: made since 1965, it is still considered one of the best in the technical diving community.
Open or closed heel
By design, fins have an open heel or a closed heel.
- Open heel. In our conditions we dive in boots, so we choose open-heel fins. They are easier to put on, and their size can be adjusted over about two sizes, so they may also fit some members of your family. The boot protects your foot not only from the cold but also from injuries when you walk on the shore.
- Closed heel. Better suited to warm water.
What to check when you try fins on
- The fins mustn't pinch or restrict your foot.
- The straps and buckles must be comfortable.
- Fins hold most reliably with metal spring straps. They cost more than rubber straps, but they are firm and durable.
Try before you buy
If you can, try several types of fins before you buy: rent them at a dive centre or borrow them from your dive buddies. Feeling the differences will help you make the right choice.
Don't save on fins
We recommend not saving on fins. Well-chosen quality fins protect you from cramps, knee joint pain and muscle fatigue, and make diving more comfortable. They are a long-term purchase: good fins will last you for decades, while poor ones will only be a nuisance and spoil your mood.
You can try fins on in our shop in Vilnius or choose a pair online.
Frequently asked questions
Which fins are best for diving in Lithuania?
Open-heel fins: in our conditions we dive in boots, which protect your feet from the cold and from injuries on the shore. Closed-heel fins are better suited to warm water.
Are spring straps worth it?
Yes. Fins hold most reliably with metal spring straps; they cost more than rubber straps, but they are firm and durable.
Why shouldn't I save on fins?
Well-chosen quality fins protect you from cramps, knee joint pain and muscle fatigue, and they last for decades, while poor ones are only a nuisance.