Private Scuba › Snorkeler Blog › Equipment › Swim Fins
Snorkel swim fins (most snorkelers call them 'swim flippers' for snorkeling) help to guide you around in water and generate power at the surface and underneath.
So, the best flippers for snorkeling help skin divers submerge and get closer to the sea life reefs and fishes (e.g. when making a 'duck dive').
Modern snorkeling fins help you create powerful water movement for swimming.
Even so, some snorkelers prefer to swim without wearing snorkel fins and will float around barefoot instead.
You should always avoid wearing tight fitting footwear in the water – especially if you have wide feet.
The main reason is that it can cause muscle spasms and foot cramps.
Hence, all snorkeling fins should be comfortable to wear with a snug fit, without causing excessive pinching in the toes.
Important: The design of the vents, ribs, and blades will ultimately determine the general performance and the power output of the fin.
Nowadays, most of the major scuba equipment manufacturers also make modern swim fins in a variety of styles, functions, and colours.
You can also buy open heel fins with accessory boots for snorkeling in cold water. But, most snorkelers will use full foot fins when swimming or scuba diving in warm water environments.
As a result, snorkelers should choose the fin model based on its swimming characteristics for the local environment.
But sometimes, doing so often creates a trade-off between comfort and power.
Generally, extra length will add thrust and increased propulsion efficiency. It can also help to relieve strain on your foot (e.g. muscle spasms, cramps).
This type of flippers are among the most comfortable on the market – especially if you are looking to buy the best swim fins for wide feet.
The general construction used for making modern snorkel fins is neoprene rubber and high grade polypropylene composite. So, this material makes them extremely lightweight and flexible for fitting inside your luggage bag.
Generally, most of the Deep Blue snorkel gear is light and super comfortable. In fact, the majority of their swim fins have extended sole platforms.
You can buy the best priced snorkel fins through our online snorkeling shop. But, it is important to understand that there are significant differences between cheap lightweight snorkeling fins vs. scuba diving fins.
Note: Be sure to check out our informative guide explaining all the important differences between snorkeling and scuba diving.